Titicus Reservoir North Side

While the broader Croton Watershed area offers many hiking options, specific dedicated hiking trails directly on the immediate banks of the Titicus Reservoir are limited due to its function as a drinking water source. The area is more known for road cycling along its scenic segments.

The Titicus Reservoir is primarily used for fishing and non-motorized boating. Visitors can enjoy fishing for diverse species like brown trout, largemouth bass, and yellow perch. Only rowboats, canoes, and kayaks are permitted. Swimming and boating with gas-powered motors are strictly restricted to protect the drinking water supply.

Yes, a valid DEP (Department of Environmental Protection) access permit is required for both fishing and boating on the Titicus Reservoir. These permits help manage access and ensure the protection of the water supply. Information on obtaining permits can typically be found on the NYC Department of Environmental Protection website.

While there are scenic road cycling segments along the reservoir's edge, there isn't a single, continuous, dedicated circular route that encompasses the entire Titicus Reservoir specifically for walking or cycling. Cyclists often enjoy out-and-back rides or combine segments with other local roads. Pedestrian access directly around the entire shoreline is not available.

The Titicus Reservoir North Side can be enjoyed by families for scenic drives or gentle walks in designated areas. However, direct access to the reservoir for swimming or extensive shoreline activities is restricted. For dog owners, regulations typically require dogs to be leashed, and access might be limited in certain sensitive areas around the reservoir due to its role as a water supply. Always check local signage for specific rules.

The Titicus Reservoir offers beautiful scenery year-round. Spring and fall are particularly popular for comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage, making them ideal for cycling and enjoying the views. Fall brings stunning autumn colors to the surrounding landscape. Winter can offer serene, stark beauty, but be prepared for colder conditions and potential ice on roads.

Parking information for various access points around the Titicus Reservoir North Side is available through local resources and signage. Anglers and boaters typically use designated parking areas near access points. It's advisable to check specific locations for parking availability, especially during peak seasons, as spots can fill up quickly.

The Titicus Reservoir North Side is situated in a more rural area focused on preserving the water supply. Therefore, there are no cafes, pubs, or direct accommodation options immediately adjacent to the reservoir. Visitors typically find these amenities in nearby towns such as North Salem, Lewisboro, or Ridgefield, Connecticut, which are a short drive away.

The Titicus Reservoir and its surrounding natural areas are home to various wildlife. Birdwatchers might spot waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds. Mammals such as deer, foxes, and smaller woodland creatures are also present. The reservoir itself is rich in fish species, including brown trout, largemouth bass, and yellow perch, making it a popular spot for anglers.

The Titicus Reservoir is a crucial component of New York City's Croton Watershed system, which has been supplying water since 1893. Water from the Titicus Reservoir flows into the Muscoot Reservoir, then into the New Croton Reservoir, and finally via the 24-mile New Croton Aqueduct to the Jerome Park Reservoir in the Bronx, where it enters the city's distribution system.

Construction of the Titicus Reservoir began in 1890 and it was placed into service in 1893, with the dam completed in 1895. It is one of the oldest reservoirs in the Croton Watershed, playing a vital role in New York City's water infrastructure for over a century. The granite used to build the dam was sourced locally from a quarry on the north side of Titicus Road.