North County Trailway

For New Yorkers seeking a fantastic outdoor escape that combines accessibility with expansive opportunities for active recreation, the North County Trailway stands as a true gem in Westchester County. More than just a simple path, this meticulously maintained multi-use trail is a vital segment of the sprawling Empire State Trail, offering a seamless and scenic journey through the heart of Westchester. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist, a dedicated runner, a casual walker, or simply looking for a peaceful stroll amidst nature, the North County Trailway provides an unparalleled experience just a short distance from the urban bustle.

The North County Trailway is celebrated for its excellent condition and its ability to cater to a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts. As one satisfied user raved, "Great ride! Well maintained. Seamless transition to the South County Trailway to the south. Part of the Empire State Trail. Fine for road bikes. Good parking and trail access." Another highlighted its versatility: "Amazing trial for walk running and cycling." These testimonials underscore the trailway's key strengths: its smooth, well-kept surface, its integration into a larger trail network, and its suitability for various activities. Built on the former right-of-way of the Putnam Division of the New York Central Railroad, the trail offers a unique blend of history and modern recreational utility.

This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the North County Trailway, detailing its extensive length and accessible points, the myriad services and activities it supports, its distinctive features and highlights, any community-related opportunities, and essential contact information. It will conclude by explaining why this trailway is an ideal and indispensable resource for New Yorkers of all ages and fitness levels.

The North County Trailway spans an impressive 22.1 miles through Westchester County, New York, running primarily from Eastview in the Town of Mount Pleasant north to Baldwin Place in the Town of Somers, at the Putnam County border. While its address is broadly given as Westchester County, Mount Pleasant, NY 10570, its extensive length means it traverses several towns, including New Castle, Yorktown, and Somers, offering numerous access points along its route.

For New Yorkers looking to access the trailway, its location within Westchester County makes it highly convenient. By car, it is readily accessible via major parkways and local roads throughout the county. The trail provides multiple designated parking areas, which are strategically located to offer convenient access points for users. Popular parking spots include Eastview (near the connection to the South County Trailway), along Route 118, in Yorktown Heights (such as near 281 Underhill Ave or Railroad Park), and in Millwood (e.g., 14088 Station Rd). This widespread access ensures that visitors can choose a starting point that best suits their needs and planned activity.

Public transportation also plays a crucial role in its accessibility. The Metro-North Railroad's Harlem Line serves several towns in Westchester County, with stations in Pleasantville and other nearby communities. From these stations, visitors can often take a short taxi or ride-share to reach a convenient trailhead. The trailway's seamless connection to the South County Trailway to the south (which extends to the Bronx border) and the Putnam Trailway to the north (which continues into Putnam County towards Brewster) further enhances its accessibility, making it part of a continuous, 36.3-mile paved trail system through Westchester and beyond as part of the Empire State Trail. This integrated network allows for extended adventures, from a quick morning run to a multi-county cycling expedition, all within easy reach of the New York metropolitan area.

The North County Trailway, managed by the Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, primarily offers a wide range of recreational services, focusing on providing a safe, well-maintained, and enjoyable outdoor environment for various activities.

• Multi-Use Paved Path: The trailway is a paved, multi-use path suitable for walking, running, cycling (including road bikes), inline skating, and even cross-country skiing in winter. Its smooth surface ensures accessibility for a variety of users.

• Seamless Trail Connections: It provides direct, seamless connections to the South County Trailway to the south and the Putnam Trailway to the north, forming a continuous long-distance route that is part of the Empire State Trail.

• Well-Maintained Surface: Consistently praised for being "well maintained," the trailway's asphalt surface is regularly inspected and repaired, ensuring a smooth and safe experience for all users.

• Access Points and Parking: Numerous designated parking areas and trailheads are available along its 22.1-mile length, making it easy for users to access the trail from various communities.

• Historical Markers and Points of Interest: Along its route, the trail passes by historic sites, including former railroad depots (some now repurposed, like the Briarcliff Manor Library), and offers views of natural landmarks such as the New Croton Reservoir via a rail trestle bridge.

• Access to Local Amenities: While not directly on the trail, its course through various towns means users can easily access nearby businesses for refreshments, snacks, or other services.

• Dog-Friendly: Leashed dogs are generally welcome on the trail, making it a popular choice for pet owners. Users are expected to clean up after their pets.

• Portable Restrooms: Portable potties are available dawn to dusk at some key parking lots, including Eastview, Route 118, and Graham Hills, providing essential facilities for long-distance users.

The North County Trailway boasts a number of distinctive features and highlights that contribute to its popularity and make it a standout outdoor destination for New Yorkers.

• Part of the Empire State Trail: As a significant segment of the statewide Empire State Trail, the North County Trailway offers a part of a much larger, cohesive network for long-distance cycling and hiking, connecting users across New York.

• "Great Ride" for Road Bikes: Unlike some trails that are unsuitable for road bikes, the North County Trailway's "well maintained" and smooth asphalt surface makes it ideal for road cyclists, offering a fast and enjoyable ride.

• Scenic and Varied Landscape: The trail passes through diverse environments, from wooded areas offering ample shade to sections alongside the Pocantico River and views of the New Croton Reservoir. While some sections parallel busy parkways, they are often "largely buffered from adjacent development by dense woods," providing a surprisingly "quiet and parklike" experience.

• Historical Significance: As a former railroad line ("Old Put"), the trail features historical elements, including old railroad depots (some with historic marker plaques) and a rail trestle bridge over the New Croton Reservoir, adding an educational and intriguing dimension to the journey.

• Seamless Connections to Sister Trails: The unbroken connection to the South County Trailway and Putnam Trailway allows for continuous journeys spanning nearly 35 miles, offering an incredible long-distance option for endurance athletes and multi-day adventurers.

• Accessibility for All Abilities: Its paved, relatively flat surface (with only a "gentle grade" uphill when heading north towards the Putnam border) makes it accessible for various users, including those with strollers, wheelchairs, or looking for an easier ride.

• Proximity to Local Communities: The trail’s route through towns like Yorktown Heights and Pleasantville means users can easily detour for snacks, meals, or to explore charming downtown areas, enhancing the overall experience.

As a public recreational trail managed by the Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, the North County Trailway does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional sense, as access is generally free for the public.

However, "promotions" for the trailway often come in the form of community initiatives, infrastructure improvements, or organized events that enhance the user experience and encourage public engagement. These may include:

• Trail Improvement Projects: Recent and ongoing multi-million dollar projects, such as the $8.7 million allocated for improvements, serve as a "promotion" of the county's commitment to maintaining and upgrading the trail, ensuring its quality for users.

• Westchester SMART TRAIL Platform: A partnership with the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) Westchester has led to new signage with QR codes along the trail, connecting users to information about nearby parks, businesses, and emergency services. This "SMART TRAIL" initiative enhances safety and convenience.

• Organized Rides, Runs, and Walks: Local cycling clubs, running groups, and community organizations frequently host public events on the trailway, such as charity bike rides, walkathons, or group runs, which serve to "promote" its use and foster community spirit.

• Seasonal Programs: The Westchester County Parks Department or local environmental groups may offer free or low-cost guided nature walks, birdwatching tours, or educational programs along sections of the trail, highlighting its natural features.

• Volunteer Opportunities: Opportunities to participate in trail maintenance or clean-up days can be seen as a "promotion" for community involvement and stewardship, allowing users to contribute to the trail's upkeep.

To stay informed about any such events, programs, or significant trail updates, New Yorkers are encouraged to regularly check the official website of the Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, as well as local community calendars and relevant outdoor recreation forums.

For general inquiries about the North County Trailway, including information about its conditions, specific access points, or details about events and programs, the primary contact would be the Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, which manages the trailway.

• Address: Westchester County, Mount Pleasant, NY 10570, USA (general location reference for the trailway)

• Main Office for Westchester County Parks:

  450 Saw Mill River Rd.

  Ardsley, NY 10502

• General Phone for Westchester County Parks: (914) 231-4500 (This is the main contact number for the Department.)

• Specific Manager for North County Trailway: Evelio Lopez, (914) 864-7310 (This direct contact may be for specific operational inquiries and may change.)

It is highly recommended to consult the official Westchester County Parks website (parks.westchestergov.com) for the most current contact details, detailed trail maps, and any important alerts regarding trail conditions or temporary closures.

The North County Trailway is an incredibly suitable and invaluable resource for New Yorkers, offering a diverse array of benefits for residents across the metropolitan area and particularly within Westchester County. Its extensive length, diverse recreational offerings, and seamless connectivity make it an essential component of the local outdoor landscape.

For those seeking accessible outdoor activity, the trailway's paved, well-maintained surface ensures that it’s suitable for everyone, from serious cyclists and runners to families with strollers and individuals using wheelchairs. This inclusivity fosters a sense of community and ensures that outdoor recreation is available to a broad demographic. The historical context, running along a former railroad line, adds a unique educational and contemplative dimension to the experience, transforming a simple outing into a journey through local history.

Furthermore, as a key segment of the Empire State Trail and with its direct connections to the South County and Putnam Trailways, it offers endless possibilities for long-distance adventures, making it a dream for endurance athletes and multi-day explorers. Its numerous access points and convenient parking alleviate typical urban frustrations, allowing for easy, spontaneous visits. For New Yorkers looking to maintain an active lifestyle, enjoy scenic beauty, or simply find a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle, the North County Trailway is a consistently "amazing" and highly recommended destination, providing both vital exercise and a deep connection with nature.

North County Trailway

Westchester County, Mount Pleasant, NY 10570, USA