Croton Gorge Park and New Croton Dam
Majestic dam views, serene park, and historic aqueduct trail make this a perfect day trip for nature lovers and photographers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds
Croton Gorge Park and New Croton Dam
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Majestic dam views, serene park, and historic aqueduct trail make this a perfect day trip for nature lovers and photographers.
"A peaceful and scenic escape with absolutely stunning views, perfect for photos and relaxation."
🚗 Parking & Fees
There's a $5-$10 entrance fee per vehicle. Arrive early for best parking spots!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring trails and walking on the dam.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Croton Dam Overlook
Top of the Dam
Marvel at the sheer scale of this historic hand-hewn structure and the vast reservoir it holds. Breathtaking views!
+1Croton Gorge Park Base
Base of the Dam
Enjoy a picnic, hike easy trails, or simply relax by the water. A serene spot with impressive dam views.
+1
Old Croton Aqueduct Trail Access
Park Entrance
Connect directly to this historic trail for a unique hiking or biking experience.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
+1Entry Fees & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Fees
There's a $5-$10 entrance fee per vehicle. Arrive early for best parking spots!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring trails and walking on the dam.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Bring a blanket and snacks! Many picnic tables available.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The dam views are stunning, especially after rain or during sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Fees
There's a $5-$10 entrance fee per vehicle. Arrive early for best parking spots!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring trails and walking on the dam.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Bring a blanket and snacks! Many picnic tables available.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The dam views are stunning, especially after rain or during sunset.
🐶 Leashed Pets Welcome
Your furry friends can join the adventure too!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Croton Gorge Park for its peaceful atmosphere, stunning dam views, and ample opportunities for outdoor activities like picnicking and hiking. It's described as a scenic escape perfect for relaxation and family time. Some note the entrance fee and limited cell service as minor drawbacks.
"The visit to Gorge Dam was such a peaceful and scenic escape. The weather was perfect, and the views around the dam were absolutely stunning — perfect for taking photos or simply soaking in the beauty of nature.
It’s a wonderful place to relax, enjoy the outdoors, and spend quality time with friends or family. We saw a few people having picnics and barbecues, which is a great way to enjoy the area. The whole place has a calm, laid-back vibe that makes you want to stay for hours.
If you’re looking for a serene spot to unwind, take in beautiful scenery, and reconnect with nature, Gorge Dam is definitely worth a visit."
abdelilah aziz
"Beautiful place for a picnic or to walk around the Reservoir. Very clean, lots of port-a-potties, a playground for children, dog friendly (on leash). The Reservoir structure is quite impressive, building started in 1892 and was completed in 1906 and stands almost 300 feet tall."
Jo Anne Reinhard
"Our visit to Gorge Dam was a peaceful and scenic escape. It was a beautiful day with perfect weather, and the views around the dam were absolutely stunning great for photos and just soaking in nature.
It’s a great spot to relax, enjoy the outdoors, and spend quality time with friends or family. We saw a few people having picnics and barbecues, which is a perfect way to enjoy the area. There’s a calm, laid back vibe that makes you want to stay for hours.
There’s a $10 per vehicle entry fee, which is well worth it for the experience. If you’re looking for a nice spot to unwind, take in some beautiful scenery, and maybe grill up some lunch, Gorge Dam is definitely worth a visit."
HolySocom
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From NYC, you can drive approximately 1 hour north. If using public transport, take the Metro-North train from Grand Central to Croton Harmon station, then a short Uber ride (about 10 mins) to the park entrance.
Yes, you can take the Metro-North train to Croton Harmon station and then a taxi or rideshare service to the park.
Yes, it's possible to bike to Croton Gorge Park, especially if you're comfortable with road biking. The Empire State Trail is nearby, though some sections might be rough for road bikes.
Yes, there are good parking facilities available, but they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving early is recommended.
You can hike to the upper dam for a great view, or park closer to the trail. Walking up on the right side is steep, but there's also a trail on the left.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is typically an entrance fee of $5-$10 per vehicle, especially during peak season (May-September).
The park is generally open year-round, but specific hours for facilities might vary. It's best to check local listings for the most up-to-date information.
Information on advance ticket purchases is not widely available. It's usually a pay-on-arrival system at the entrance.
Some sources mention a discounted fee if you have a pass, but specific details are not readily available.
While generally open, it's wise to check for any temporary closures due to weather or maintenance, especially during off-season.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy fishing, hiking, picnicking, photography, and in winter, sledding and cross-country skiing.
Absolutely! The dam and spillway offer dramatic views, especially after rain or during sunset. +1
Yes, there are easy hiking trails within the park, and direct access to the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail.
Picnicking is very popular, with many spots available. While picnic tables are present, grills are not typically provided.
Cell network access can be limited, especially near the waterfall area. You might need to hike to the upper dam for better reception.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within the park itself. It's best to pack your own food for picnics or dine in nearby Croton-on-Hudson.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly encouraged for picnics.
The town of Croton-on-Hudson, a short drive away, offers various dining options.
While picnicking is popular, grills are generally not provided within the park.
Sandwiches, salads, and snacks are popular choices for a relaxed picnic experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the dam offers panoramic views, and the base provides a dramatic perspective of the spillway. After rain, the waterfall is particularly photogenic.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds. Sunsets can also be spectacular.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with Westchester County Parks for current policies before flying.
Generally, no specific restrictions for casual photography, but be mindful of other visitors and park rules.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the dam, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details. A tripod can help with low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as dining options within the park are limited. The open spaces are perfect for kids to run around, and the impressive dam provides a unique educational element about water systems. Remember to check for the entrance fee and arrive early for the best parking.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
+1The park is beautiful year-round, with vibrant greenery in spring and summer, and opportunities for sledding and cross-country skiing in winter. The dam itself is a fascinating structure to hike around and admire from various angles.
📸 Photographers
+2Bring your wide-angle lens to encompass the scale of the dam and reservoir. A tripod will be useful for capturing the best light. Remember to check for any drone regulations if you plan to use one.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: New Croton Dam
+1Constructed between 1892 and 1906, the dam's sheer size and the labor involved in its creation are awe-inspiring. The park at its base, Croton Gorge Park, was developed to complement the dam and provide recreational space. The dam's spillway is particularly dramatic, especially after periods of heavy rainfall, creating a powerful cascade that draws many visitors.
+1Understanding the dam's history adds another layer to the visit. It's not just a scenic spot but a vital piece of infrastructure with a rich past. The park offers various vantage points to appreciate its grandeur, from the base looking up to the top of the dam for panoramic reservoir views.
+1Exploring Croton Gorge Park: Activities & Trails
+2A significant feature of the park is its direct access to the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail. This historic trail offers a unique opportunity for longer hikes or bike rides, allowing visitors to explore more of the surrounding natural beauty and historical infrastructure.
+1Beyond hiking and picnicking, the park is a hub for seasonal recreation. During winter, it transforms into a favorite spot for sledding and cross-country skiing, showcasing its versatility throughout the year. Leashed dogs are also welcome, making it a great outing for pet owners.
+1Best Photography Spots and Tips
+2For the best light, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. The 'golden hour' before sunset can cast a warm glow on the dam, creating stunning photographic opportunities. Visiting after rainfall significantly enhances the visual impact of the spillway, turning it into a roaring waterfall.
+1When planning your shoot, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the immense scale of the dam and reservoir. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light conditions or capturing long exposures of the water. Remember to be mindful of other visitors and park regulations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable photography experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit