Top 7 Lakes around Bedford Hills

Many of the large reservoirs in the area, such as Cross River Reservoir, New Croton Reservoir, Muscoot Reservoir, Amawalk Reservoir, and Titicus Reservoir, are part of the New York City water supply system. For activities like fishing and boating on these, a free NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) watershed access permit is generally required. Rowboats also need to be approved and registered by the NYC DEP.

Yes, the lakes and reservoirs around Bedford Hills offer excellent fishing. For instance, the Cross River Reservoir is known for trout and bass, stocked annually with over 6,000 brown trout. The New Croton Reservoir is a significant fishery for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and chain pickerel. Muscoot Reservoir is recognized for both warm water and trout fisheries, stocked annually with brown and rainbow trout.

You can find several scenic spots. The Red Bridge over the Croton Reservoir offers great views of the reservoir itself. The Cross River Reservoir provides stunning views over tranquil water and tree-lined shorelines, especially when cycling past on the Old Post Road Bridge. The North County Trailway also offers scenic rides along the New Croton Reservoir and Echo Lake.

Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Red Bridge over the Croton Reservoir, North County Trailway (New Croton Reservoir to Briarcliff Manor), Cross River Reservoir, Bechtel Lake, and Twin Lakes are all categorized as family-friendly. Lake Marie at Bedford Hills Memorial Park is conveniently located within a town park and has a nearby playground, making it easily accessible for families.

Beyond fishing and boating, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. The hiking trails around Bedford Hills offer routes like the Lost Pond and Sentry Ridge Loop or the Muscoot Farm Yellow Trail. For cycling, the North County Trailway runs along the New Croton Reservoir. You can also find running trails, including loops around the New Croton Reservoir.

While many reservoirs are part of the NYC water supply system and prohibit swimming to protect water quality, Lake Lincolndale in Somers offers swimming with a sand bathing beach and certified lifeguards during summer. However, it is managed by a private property owners association, with access reserved for members and their guests. Lake Shenorock, also in Somers, no longer permits swimming due to its role as a water source.

The fall is particularly stunning around the lakes. For example, the Cross River Reservoir is noted for its gorgeous forest setting, with colors that are stunning in the fall. The scenic views from the Red Bridge over the Croton Reservoir are also enjoyable in almost any weather.

While many reservoirs are popular, exploring areas like Bechtel Lake within the Westmoreland Sanctuary can offer a serene ambiance. The trail around Bechtel Lake is meticulously maintained, providing a peaceful experience. Byram Lake Reservoir also offers a peaceful fishing experience in a well-maintained environment, though swimming is prohibited.

The provided data does not explicitly state dog-friendly policies for all lakes and trails. However, many outdoor areas in the region are generally dog-friendly, especially on leash. It's always best to check specific regulations for each park or reservoir, particularly for NYC DEP properties, as rules can vary.

The reservoirs are well-stocked and diverse. In Cross River Reservoir, you can find brown trout, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass. New Croton Reservoir is home to largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, and various panfish. Muscoot Reservoir offers brown and rainbow trout, bass, and panfish. Amawalk Reservoir has brown trout, bass, and panfish, while Titicus Reservoir is known for brown trout and largemouth bass.

Yes, some lakes are privately managed. Lake Lincolndale and Lake Purdys, both in the Town of Somers, are managed by private property owners associations. Access and activities at these lakes are typically reserved for members, homeowners, and their accompanied guests.

The North County Trailway is an excellent option for cycling, running along the New Croton Reservoir and Echo Lake. This section provides a scenic ride surrounded by trees. The quarter-mile dirt path atop the Cross River Dam also connects to 8 to 10 miles of trails suitable for biking, offering scenic vistas of the Cross River Reservoir.