The Old 'Put' Path Trail

While specific parking locations can vary along its extensive length, the trail is accessible from multiple points. For segments like the Putnam County Trailway, you'll often find parking areas near trailheads in towns it passes through. For the Van Cortlandt Park section, access points are available within the park itself. Always check local signage for designated parking.

Yes, the Old 'Put' Path Trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash at all times and to clean up after them. Specific regulations might vary slightly in different sections, especially within parks, so always be mindful of posted rules.

The trail offers different experiences throughout the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, making them ideal for hiking. Summer is also great, though some sections can be exposed. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for potentially uneven, icy, or muddy conditions, especially in unpaved areas.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and hike The Old 'Put' Path Trail. It's a publicly accessible multi-use trail.

The terrain varies significantly. The Putnam County Trailway primarily features a paved asphalt surface, though you might encounter bumps from tree roots or frost heaves. In contrast, sections within Van Cortlandt Park were historically unpaved dirt paths with roots and gravel, which can become uneven and muddy after rain. Recent efforts have paved some Bronx sections to improve accessibility.

You'll experience diverse scenery, from hardwood forests in northern stretches to glimpses of lakes like Mahopac and various reservoirs. Notable features include a 1,000-foot causeway over the Middle Branch Reservoir. You can also see historical remnants of its railway past, such as old industrial buildings and former station sites. Specific highlights include the Tunnel under Kitchawan Road, the Red Bridge over the Croton Reservoir, and a View from bridge.

Yes, the trail is generally considered easy, especially its paved segments, due to its mostly flat or gently graded former rail bed. This makes it suitable for beginners and families. However, some sections of the Putnam County Trailway have moderate elevation changes with short, steep grades up to 10%. Unpaved sections can also be bumpy or muddy after rain, increasing difficulty.

Yes, the trail is a critical connector. Starting in Van Cortlandt Park, it links to the South County Trailway, which then leads to the North County Trailway. Together, these form a significant part of the Empire State Trail. The trail is also known by various segments as the Old Putnam Trail and the Putnam County Trailway.

This trail is a prime example of a rail-trail, built upon the abandoned right-of-way of the New York Central Railroad's Putnam Division, which operated from 1881 to 1958. You can still see remnants of its railway past, including old industrial buildings and historic station sites, offering a unique historical dimension to your journey.

No, the Old 'Put' Path Trail is not a loop. It is a linear rail-trail that extends for many miles, primarily following the former New York Central Railroad line. You can hike sections of it as an out-and-back route, or arrange for transportation at different access points to cover longer distances.

As the trail winds through woodlands, lakes, and reservoirs, it provides a habitat for diverse wildlife. You might spot various bird species, small mammals like squirrels and rabbits, and potentially deer, especially in the more rural and forested sections. Keep an eye out, particularly during quieter times of day.