Attractions and Places To See around Valhalla - Top 20

Valhalla offers excellent opportunities for cycling, hiking, and running. You can explore the South County Trailway, a paved cycleway perfect for both biking and walking. For scenic bike rides, the Kensico Reservoir provides a beautiful route, including a car-free path on the east side of the Valhalla dam. Nearby, you can find various routes for different sports, such as the "Kensico Reservoir loop" for cycling or the "Bronx River Pathway: Kensico Dam to County Center" for an easy hike. Find more routes at Cycling around Valhalla, Hiking around Valhalla, and Running Trails around Valhalla.

Yes, Valhalla is home to several notable landmarks. The impressive Kensico Dam Plaza is a major landmark in the Hudson Valley, known for its 300-foot granite dam and as a venue for various community events. Another significant site is the Kensico Cemetery, established in 1889, which serves as the final resting place for many notable individuals, including Lou Gehrig and Sergei Rachmaninoff. For a unique dining experience, Valhalla Crossing offers a nostalgic glimpse into Westchester's history with its restaurant set inside vintage train cars.

The area around Valhalla boasts beautiful natural features centered around its water resources. The Kensico Reservoir is a prominent feature, storing water from the Catskill Mountains and offering scenic views. Adjacent to the Kensico Reservoir is the Kensico Dam Plaza, providing wide pathways for enjoying the surroundings. Further along the South County Trailway, you'll find Woodlands Lake - V. E. Macy Park, a pleasant spot to observe waterfowl and enjoy a snack by the reservoir, which is part of the Sawmill River.

Absolutely. Many attractions in Valhalla are suitable for families. The Kensico Dam Plaza is a safe and clean space ideal for picnics and relaxation, often hosting family-friendly events. The South County Trailway and the scenic bike path around the Kensico Reservoir are great for family bike rides or walks. Woodlands Lake - V. E. Macy Park is another excellent spot for families to observe waterfowl and enjoy the outdoors.

Valhalla offers a variety of trails for both hiking and cycling. The South County Trailway is a well-developed, paved cycleway that extends from New York City to Upstate New York, providing opportunities for both activities. A beautiful section of this trail is the South County Trail (Elmsford to Tarrytown Lakes), which connects to the Tarrytown Lakes Extension Trail. For a scenic ride, consider the path around the Kensico Reservoir. You can find more detailed hiking and cycling routes in the Hiking around Valhalla and Cycling around Valhalla guides.

Yes, there are several easy hiking options around Valhalla. The "Bronx River Pathway: Kensico Dam to County Center" is an easy 5.4 km route. Another accessible option is the "Tarrytown Lakes Extension Trail," which is 3.6 km long and offers a pleasant walk along the water. These trails are generally well-maintained and suitable for casual walkers. For more easy routes, check the Hiking around Valhalla guide.

Visitors frequently praise the scenic beauty and well-maintained paths. The South County Trailway is appreciated for its role as a gateway cycling route and its generally good conditions. The Kensico Reservoir is highlighted for its very scenic bike rides. Many also enjoy Woodlands Lake - V. E. Macy Park as a pretty, scenic spot to stop, watch waterfowl, and have a snack.

Yes, several spots offer amenities for resting and picnicking. Woodlands Lake - V. E. Macy Park, located along the South County Trailway, has benches and picnic tables around the reservoir. The Kensico Dam Plaza also provides a clean and safe environment with ample space for families to relax and picnic.

Yes, for a truly unique dining experience, visit Valhalla Crossing. This restaurant is distinctive because it offers dining inside real vintage train cars, providing a nostalgic atmosphere that harks back to Westchester's history.

If you have a sweet tooth, the Village Creamery and Sweet Shop in Valhalla is known for its homemade ice cream, offering a variety of unique flavors that make for a delightful treat after exploring the area's attractions.

While outdoor activities can be enjoyed year-round, spring, summer, and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for cycling, hiking, and picnicking. The Kensico Dam Plaza hosts various events, including concerts and fireworks, during the summer months. Fall foliage also makes for particularly scenic bike rides around the Kensico Reservoir and along the South County Trailway.

The South County Trailway is a prime cycling route, offering a paved path that is part of a larger network. While some segments are freshly paved, others can be bumpy. Another highly recommended option for cyclists is the scenic ride around the Kensico Reservoir, which includes an alternative car-free path on the east side of the Valhalla dam. The Tarrytown Reservoir also has the Tarrytown Lake Extension Trail, allowing you to ride by the water.