South County Trailway

The South County Trailway is generally considered easy for hiking. It's a paved, multi-use rail trail with a smooth surface and mostly gentle slopes. While komoot's overall difficulty rating for the full distance is 'difficult' due to its length, the physical effort required per mile is low, making it accessible for many. There are some slight uphill sections, particularly in the southernmost 3.5 miles, and some areas might have minor bumps from tree roots.

The trail is predominantly paved with asphalt or concrete, offering a smooth surface. It's wide, typically 8 feet across. While mostly flat, there are gradual elevation changes, with a slight uphill climb in the southern portion. Some sections, especially in the northern half, might have minor bumps or ridges due to tree roots or past repaving.

The full length of the South County Trailway is approximately 14.1 to 14.4 miles. For an average hiker, completing the entire trail in one direction could take around 6 to 8 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop. Many users choose to hike shorter sections or use it for cycling.

The trail offers diverse scenery, winding through wooded areas, parks, and alongside riverbanks. Key scenic points include passing by Woodlands Lake in V.E. Macy Park, where the Great Hunger Memorial is visible. There's also an observation point north of the Palmer Road overpass with views of north Yonkers. The trail largely follows the Saw Mill River in the north and Tibbetts Brook in the south, providing pleasant waterside views and generous tree cover.

Yes, the South County Trailway is a significant part of the larger Empire State Trail. It connects directly with the North County Trailway in Eastview, allowing for extended journeys. It also links to other paths and parks, including the Putnam Trail in Van Cortlandt Park, Tibbetts Brook Park, and Tarrytown Lakes Park. Sections of the Hudson Valley Greenway Trail and the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail also run nearby or intersect.

Yes, dogs are permitted on the South County Trailway, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the trail enjoyable for everyone.

Several parking lots are available along the trail. You can find portable restrooms at some of these locations, including Farragut Ave., Great Hunger Memorial, and Eastview. These spots offer convenient access points to different sections of the trail.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the South County Trailway itself. As part of the Westchester County Parks system, it is generally open to the public without charge. However, always check the Westchester County Parks website for any updates or specific regulations for adjacent parks you might enter.

The trail is enjoyable for most of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer provides ample shade from the plentiful tree cover. However, be aware that the trail is not lit at night and is not plowed in winter, which can make it challenging to use during those seasons. Minor flooding near Woodlands Lake can occur after heavy storms.

Portable restrooms are available at several parking lots along the trail, including Farragut Ave., Great Hunger Memorial, and Eastview. It's advisable to carry your own water, as dedicated water fountains may not be consistently available or operational along the entire route.

Yes, the South County Trailway is accessible via public transportation, particularly at its southern end in Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx, which is served by NYC subway lines. Various bus routes also run near different sections of the trail in Westchester County. Checking local bus schedules for Westchester County (Bee-Line Bus System) is recommended for specific access points.