Living in Manhattan in the early 1800s was risky business, not from the threat of crime but because of frequent epidemics of cholera and yellow fever. And if the diseases didn’t get you, one of the devastating fires that regularly consumed large sections of the city might. To meet this challenge, the city built the Croton Aqueduct, a 41-mile engineering marvel to bring clean water from northern Westchester County to the residents and businesses of Manhattan. Its completion in 1842 triggered the rapid expansion of New York into one of the world’s leading cities.
Although operating ceased in 1958, the Aqueduct is now a National Historic Landmark and offers idyllic hiking and biking terrain in some of the most serene residential areas of greater New York. When you’re feeling spontaneous, the metro north train from Grand Central Station can have you standing at the foot of these charming Hudson River communities within a half hour. A short walk gets you from the station to the beautifully maintained and traffic-free (excluding deer) path.
Built on top of the large masonry tunnel that brought 100 million gallons of clean water to Manhattan every day, the Aqueduct Trail is a year-round delight. In winter, the snow will bring out the cross-country skiers and even a few snowshoers who appreciate the nearly flat path (it drops just 13 inches for every mile) with views of the Hudson River and many magnificent mansions and landmarks in the Hudson Valley (Octagon House, Lyndhurst, Philipse Manor Hall, the Hudson River Museum, and even Sing Sing prison). For a quick active getaway that’s scenic and budget-friendly, it doesn’t get better than this.
Watch this video by Biking with Woody to see their biking trip in the famous trail:
Reasons Why You Should Hike The Historic Croton Aqueduct Trail
The Historic Croton Aqueduct Trail in New York is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider hiking this trail:
- Rich History: The Croton Aqueduct was built in the mid-19th century to provide clean water to New York City. The aqueduct brought water from the Croton River in Westchester County to the city, providing a reliable source of drinking water and helping to alleviate public health concerns. The trail follows the route of the aqueduct, and hikers can see remnants of the aqueduct and learn about the history of the project through interpretive signs and exhibits.
- Scenic Views: The trail offers beautiful views of the Hudson River, the surrounding countryside, and the city skyline. Hikers can enjoy the natural beauty of the area as well as the historic architecture and engineering feats of the aqueduct.
- Accessibility: The trail is accessible to hikers of all skill levels and abilities. The trail is flat and well-maintained, making it easy for families with strollers or people with mobility issues to enjoy the trail.
- Biking: The trail is also popular with bikers, as it offers a smooth, traffic-free route through the scenic countryside. Bikers can enjoy a leisurely ride along the trail, taking in the sights and sounds of nature.
- Birdwatching: The trail is a great spot for birdwatching, with many species of birds found in the area. Hikers and bikers can spot birds such as red-tailed hawks, ospreys, bald eagles, and many more.
- Picnicking: The trail offers many great spots for picnicking, with scenic views and peaceful surroundings. Hikers and bikers can bring along a picnic lunch and enjoy a relaxing break in nature.
- Local Businesses: The trail passes through many historic towns and villages, offering opportunities to explore local businesses and restaurants. Hikers and bikers can stop for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink and can support local businesses while enjoying the trail.
- Fitness: Hiking or biking the trail is a great way to get exercise and stay active. The flat terrain of the trail makes it easy to maintain a steady pace, and the beautiful surroundings make it a pleasant way to get a workout.
In conclusion, the Historic Croton Aqueduct Trail in New York is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history, nature, and outdoor recreation. With its rich history, scenic views, accessibility, and opportunities for birdwatching, picnicking, and exploring local businesses, the trail has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely hike or bike ride, a family outing, or a solo adventure, the Historic Croton Aqueduct Trail is a great choice.
How to get there:
Take Metro North – Hudson Line from Grand Central Station to any of the following riverfront communities which are just minutes on foot from the Aqueduct Trail: Yonkers, Greystone, Hastings-on-Hudson, Dobbs Ferry, Ardsley, Irvington, Tarrytown, Philipse Manor, Scarborough, or Ossining. Each of these stations lets you off west or southwest of the path. Start walking east and ask anyone you meet where the Aqueduct Trail can be found. It’s a happy and well-kept secret, but everyone in these riverfront communities knows about it.
Photos: Courtesy of ScubaBear68
Sarah Knapp is a Brooklyn based entrepreneur whose love for the outdoors and community building led her to the October 2013 creation of OutdoorFest. She has a BA in History, is a Wilderness First Responder and a NY state hiking, camp and boating guide. Her proudest achievement to date is reading the Aeneid in Latin. 
Allison was one of our first top writers and Chief Editor but is no longer working with offMetro. Allison is a native New Yorker, who has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne, Toronto and Los Angeles. She frequently contributed travel pieces to Family Travel Forum, using her own children as guinea pigs as they travel the globe. She never missed a chance to sample local delicacies, as her love for travel goes hand-in-hand with her love for food and wine. 
Josh Laskin is a freelance travel writer and photographer based in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. When he is not at work or on the road, you can find him in the mountains snowboarding, climbing, hiking, fly fishing, mountain biking, and eating bagel bites.
Annie is a travel writer, environmentalist, and surfer based in Venice, CA. She heads up our West Coast team, keeps our grammatical errors in check, and makes sure our California writers always have a plan for their next adventure. Follow Annie’s travels @annelisemcb.
Carly Pifer is a freelance writer who has been known to follow whims inspired by romantic movie scenes or colorful street style shots to India, Japan, Tunisia and Argentina. After stints living in Seoul, Boston, Paris and Los Angeles, writing and searching for something intangible, she landed somewhat steadily in Brooklyn and has begun to find inspiration in her more immediate surroundings. 
Kate E. O’Hara is a New York based freelance writer and photographer who loves all things food—especially the people who make it and market it. Her writing aims to capture the essence of the food experience; the stories that go well beyond a plate of ingredients. In addition to her love of food, Kate is also known to have a hankering for red wine and craft beer. You can also find Kate on Instagram