Ashokan Reservoir

The two most popular options are the Ashokan Reservoir Promenade and the Ashokan Rail Trail. The Promenade is a 2.8-mile paved, flat trail offering stunning reservoir views, ideal for easy walks and cycling. The Ashokan Rail Trail is much longer, with multiple access points, providing diverse environments from open reservoir vistas to quiet forest sections, suitable for varied experiences from short strolls to longer cycling excursions.

The terrain around the Ashokan Reservoir is generally flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for a wide range of visitors. The Ashokan Reservoir Promenade is particularly easy, being paved and flat. The Ashokan Rail Trail also offers mostly gentle grades, though its length allows for longer, more strenuous outings if desired. There are no significant elevation changes directly on these main trails.

Absolutely! The dividing weir, which separates the reservoir into its East and West Basins, offers spectacular panoramic views of the water against the backdrop of the Catskill Mountains. Additionally, the reservoir and its surrounding woodlands are a haven for bird watchers, with a nesting pair of Bald Eagles often spotted, along with various waterfowl and shorebirds.

Parking lots are available at various access points, particularly along the Ashokan Rail Trail. While general access to the trails is free, some specific activities like fishing or boating may require a DEP Access Permit. It's always advisable to check the official NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) website for the most current permit requirements: nyc.gov/site/dep/recreation/general-permit-frequently-asked-questions.page.

For fall foliage, late September through October is ideal, when the surrounding Catskill Mountains burst with vibrant colors, making for spectacular scenic drives and walks. In winter, the reservoir offers a stark, quiet beauty, perfect for peaceful contemplation or snowshoeing on the trails, though conditions can be cold and icy. Always check weather conditions before a winter visit.

Yes, Ashokan Reservoir is very family-friendly, especially the paved Ashokan Reservoir Promenade and sections of the Ashokan Rail Trail, which are suitable for all ages and abilities. Regarding dogs, the Ashokan Rail Trail is dog-friendly, allowing leashed dogs. However, specific regulations may apply to other areas, so always look for signage or check the DEP website for the latest rules.

While the immediate vicinity of the reservoir is primarily natural and recreational, you'll find various amenities in nearby towns. Kingston, approximately 13 miles east, offers a wider selection of cafes, restaurants, pubs, and accommodation. Smaller towns like Stone Ridge or Woodstock also have charming local establishments and lodging options within a reasonable driving distance.

Walking or cycling around the entire Ashokan Reservoir is not possible on a single continuous trail. The reservoir is vast, covering 8,300 acres. However, the Ashokan Rail Trail, which runs along portions of the reservoir, offers a significant distance. The full length of the Ashokan Rail Trail is approximately 11.5 miles (18.5 km) one way, so a round trip would be about 23 miles (37 km), which could take several hours to cycle or a full day to walk, depending on your pace.

The Ashokan Reservoir and its surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. Birdwatchers can frequently spot Bald Eagles, various waterfowl, and shorebirds. The woodlands are home to deer, foxes, and a variety of smaller mammals. The reservoir itself is known for its fish, including brown and rainbow trout, making it a popular spot for anglers.

The Ashokan Reservoir holds significant historical importance as a monumental engineering feat. It was constructed between 1907 and 1915 by the New York City Board of Water Supply to provide clean drinking water to New York City. Its creation involved the controversial displacement of approximately 2,000 residents and the submergence of 12 communities, making it a poignant example of early 20th-century urban development and its impact on rural areas.