Lake Tiorati

For New York locals seeking a refreshing escape from the urban landscape, Lake Tiorati stands as a true natural treasure within Harriman State Park. Located at 7W84+QV, Woodbury, NY 10975, this beautiful lake is more than just a body of water; it's a vibrant hub of outdoor activity and serene natural beauty. Whether you're dreaming of a day on a sandy beach, an invigorating hike through lush forests, or a peaceful afternoon fishing, Lake Tiorati offers an unparalleled experience for individuals, families, and outdoor enthusiasts right in our backyard.

As a prominent feature of Harriman State Park, Lake Tiorati embodies the best of what New York's natural landscape has to offer. Its clear waters and surrounding woodlands provide a picturesque backdrop for a wide array of recreational pursuits, transforming with each season to offer unique experiences. From the bustling summer beach scene to the quiet solitude of a winter ice-fishing excursion, Lake Tiorati remains a consistently appealing destination for those in the New York region looking to connect with nature and enjoy quality time outdoors.

Lake Tiorati is conveniently situated at 7W84+QV, Woodbury, NY 10975, placing it within the vast and easily accessible Harriman State Park. Its location on Seven Lakes Drive, a scenic parkway that winds through the heart of Harriman and Bear Mountain State Parks, makes it a popular and straightforward destination for many New York residents.

For those traveling by car, the lake's specific location can be easily found using GPS. From New York City, the drive typically takes approximately an hour to an hour and a half, offering a manageable day trip. There is a large parking lot conveniently located across Seven Lakes Drive from the beach and main recreational area. It's important to note that a vehicle use fee is applied during the peak season, specifically between Memorial Day Weekend and Labor Day Weekend, at designated times and days. This fee is typically around $10-$20 per vehicle, varying by type and time of week. Cash and credit are generally accepted for payment.

While direct public transportation to Lake Tiorati itself isn't available, hikers and park visitors often utilize Metro-North Railroad service to nearby stations like Tuxedo or Harriman. During weekends and holidays, shuttle services sometimes operate within Harriman State Park, connecting these stations to various trailheads and popular park locations, including those along Seven Lakes Drive that are close to Lake Tiorati. This combination of straightforward driving access and indirect public transit options ensures that Lake Tiorati remains a highly accessible and attractive outdoor destination for a wide range of New York locals. The park is open year-round, from dawn until dusk.

Lake Tiorati offers a comprehensive range of services and amenities designed to enhance the visitor experience, particularly during the warmer months.

• Lifeguarded Beach: During the swimming season (typically late May to early September), Lake Tiorati features a popular beach with lifeguards on duty, providing a safe environment for swimming and water play. Swimming hours are generally from 10:00 AM to 5:45 PM on weekdays and 11:00 AM to 6:45 PM on weekends and holidays during peak summer.

• Picnic Tables and Grills: Numerous picnic tables are available around the lake and beach area, often accompanied by grills, perfect for family cookouts and gatherings amidst the scenic backdrop.

• Boat Launch: There is a designated boat launch on the east side of the lake, accessible with a valid Palisades Interstate Park Commission (PIPC) boat permit and, for vehicle access, a specific Tiorati/Welch key. Motors are permitted, including gas engines, but all boats must comply with PIPC regulations and New York State laws regarding life jackets and registration. Boating is typically permitted from April 1 to November 30.

• Fishing Opportunities: Lake Tiorati offers excellent fishing for a variety of species including largemouth bass, chain pickerel, perch, bluegills, and smallmouth bass. A New York State fishing license is required for all anglers aged 16 and older. Ice fishing is also permitted when conditions allow and ice thickness is deemed safe.

• Hiking Trail Access: The parking lot at Lake Tiorati provides direct access to multiple hiking trails, including a connector trail to the renowned Appalachian Trail, as well as the Lake Tiorati Trail and the Askoti-Tiorati Trail, among others within Harriman State Park.

• Restroom Facilities: Public restrooms are available, particularly near the beach and picnic areas, ensuring comfort for visitors.

• Pioneer Camping: Specific areas around Lake Tiorati, such as Tiorati Plateau, offer pioneer campsites available by reservation only for bona fide organizations, providing an opportunity for group camping experiences.

Lake Tiorati's natural beauty and diverse recreational offerings make it a standout destination within Harriman State Park.

• Crystal-Clear Lake Waters: The lake itself is a primary highlight, known for its clear waters suitable for swimming, boating, and fishing. Its creation from two smaller ponds through a dam provides a significant, beautiful body of water for recreation.

• Family-Friendly Beach: The large sandy beach with lifeguards is a major draw for families during the summer. It provides a safe and enjoyable environment for children and adults to cool off and relax by the water.

• Scenic Setting: Surrounded by meadows, rolling wooded hills, and the expansive forests of Harriman State Park, Lake Tiorati offers stunning vistas that change beautifully with the seasons. It's a photographer's delight, particularly during fall foliage.

• Extensive Trail Access: Beyond the immediate lake activities, Lake Tiorati serves as a gateway to numerous hiking trails. From short, easy loops around the lake to more challenging routes that connect to the Appalachian Trail and explore the broader Harriman State Park landscape, there's a trail for every level of hiker.

• Year-Round Activities: While summer is popular for swimming and boating, Lake Tiorati offers activities throughout the year. Fishing is popular in warmer months, and when conditions allow, the lake becomes a prime spot for ice fishing in winter, providing a unique seasonal experience.

• Diverse Fish Population: Anglers appreciate Lake Tiorati for its abundant and diverse fish species, including largemouth bass, chain pickerel, various perch, and bluegills, ensuring a rewarding fishing experience.

As a public state park facility, Lake Tiorati operates under the New York State Parks system, and its "promotions" are generally tied to park-wide passes and seasonal access rather than commercial discounts.

• New York State Empire Pass: For frequent visitors to New York State Parks, the annual Empire Pass offers unlimited day-use vehicle entry to most state parks and facilities for a single fee. This can be a significant saving for those who plan multiple visits to Lake Tiorati or other state parks throughout the year.

• Seasonal Vehicle Use Fee: While not a "promotion," the vehicle use fee (typically $10-$20 per car) is applied only during peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day) and specific hours/days. Visiting outside these times or during the off-season allows for free vehicle entry, which can be seen as an informal "offer" for those seeking a quieter experience.

• Boating Permits and Keys: Special permits (PIPC Boat Permit) and keys (Tiorati/Welch Key) are required for boat launches, but these are annual fees, providing access for the entire boating season. Physically challenged anglers may even be able to purchase a Tiorati/Welch key without a boat permit, making access more equitable.

• Free Pedestrian/Bicycle Access: Hikers and bicyclists entering the park on foot or by bicycle are generally not charged an entry fee, promoting active and eco-friendly modes of access.

• Senior and Disabled Discounts: New York State Parks often offer discounts on vehicle use fees for seniors (e.g., $2 off for drivers 62+) and individuals with state discount passes for disabilities (e.g., 50% off).

For information regarding Lake Tiorati and its facilities within Harriman State Park, it's best to consult the official New York State Parks resources.

Address: 7W84+QV, Woodbury, NY 10975, USA (this is a Plus Code, which translates to the general area of Lake Tiorati. The physical address often associated with Lake Tiorati Beach for GPS is 3200 Seven Lakes Dr, Southfields, NY 10975, USA).

General Information Phone: (845) 429-8257 (This number is often listed for Lake Tiorati Beach and general Harriman State Park inquiries related to this area).

For detailed information on park hours, fees, beach conditions, boating permits, or specific trail details, the official New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation website for Lake Tiorati (parks.ny.gov/parks/117/details.aspx) is the most reliable resource. Additionally, the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference website is excellent for comprehensive trail maps and conditions.

Lake Tiorati is an undeniable gem for New York locals, offering an ideal blend of accessibility, diverse recreational opportunities, and breathtaking natural beauty. Its location within Harriman State Park, easily reachable from the metropolitan area via scenic drives and even indirect public transport, makes it a convenient escape from urban life. This ease of access means that a day of swimming, hiking, boating, or simply unwinding by the lake is always within reach, providing a crucial outlet for relaxation and outdoor activity without the need for extensive travel.

What truly sets Lake Tiorati apart for locals is its versatility. With a lifeguarded beach perfect for families, ample picnic areas for gatherings, a boat launch for water enthusiasts (with proper permits), and direct access to an extensive network of hiking trails, including a connector to the Appalachian Trail, there’s something for everyone. As one visitor noted, it's a "Lovely lake in Harriman State Park. Beach with lifeguards in season. Parking lot (fee in season) across Seven Lakes Drive. Picnic tables available. The parking lot provides access to multiple trails including a connector trail to the Appalachian Trail." The ability to enjoy swimming, fishing, and even ice fishing in winter further solidifies its appeal as a year-round destination.

For New Yorkers seeking a revitalizing connection with nature, a vibrant spot for family fun, or a challenging new hiking adventure, Lake Tiorati provides the perfect setting. It’s a place where lasting memories are made, where the natural world flourishes, and where the stresses of city life simply melt away. Make Lake Tiorati your next local outdoor adventure; you'll quickly understand why it's so cherished by those who call New York home.

Lake Tiorati

7W84+QV, Woodbury, NY 10975, USA