Old Croton Aqueduct and South County Trailway Loop

The loop offers a diverse cycling experience. The South County Trailway is mostly paved asphalt and concrete, providing a smooth ride, though some sections may have bumps from tree roots. In contrast, the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail is a more rugged, unpaved dirt path that can be stony, bumpy, or muddy, with roots and small rocks. It also includes numerous street crossings and detours onto local roads.

Due to the varied terrain, a hybrid, gravel, or mountain bike is recommended for this loop. While the South County Trailway is suitable for most touring bicycles, the unpaved sections of the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail can be challenging for road bikes, which may struggle with the dirt, stones, and roots.

The loop is considered moderate overall. The South County Trailway is generally easy to moderate due to its paved, mostly flat surface. The Old Croton Aqueduct Trail adds more challenge with its unpaved, varied terrain, frequent street crossings, and occasional detours that might involve steeper sections requiring you to walk your bike.

You'll encounter several interesting features. The Old Croton Aqueduct Trail itself is a National Historic Landmark, with remnants like ventilating towers and weir chambers. You'll also pass historic estates, charming riverfront communities, and nature preserves. The South County Trailway offers views of pocket woodlots, parks, golf courses, and riverbanks, including the Van Cortlandt Lake and Boathouse View.

Parking is available at various points along both trails. For the southern end, you can often find parking near Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx, which serves as a good starting point for the loop. Specific parking areas can be found in towns along the route, particularly near access points for the South County Trailway.

The southern end of the loop, particularly the South County Trailway, connects to Van Cortlandt Park, which is accessible via the NYC subway system. This makes it convenient for those traveling from urban centers without a car.

Generally, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park or to cycle on the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail and South County Trailway. These trails are publicly accessible for recreational use.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially on the South County Trailway which has plentiful tree cover for shade. Be aware that sections of the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail can become muddy after rain.

Yes, both the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail and the South County Trailway are generally dog-friendly. Dogs are typically allowed on a leash. Always ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the trails for everyone.

Yes, the route is part of a larger network. The South County Trailway is a key component of the Empire State Trail and the East Coast Greenway. The loop also passes through sections of the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail, Hudson River Greenway Trail, and Van Cortlandt Park Greenway, connecting to various other local paths.

Yes, you'll find opportunities for food and drink, particularly in the towns located along the South County Trailway. While the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail can feel more remote in sections, it also passes through or near charming communities where provisions can be found. It's always a good idea to carry some water and snacks, especially for the OCA sections.