10 Outdoor Activities In Westchester County
Start writing a post
Lifestyle

10 Outdoor Activities In Westchester County

No, we are not New York City. Yes, we do have cool things to do too.

1512
10 Outdoor Activities In Westchester County

Are you finding yourself bored this summer? Are you counting down the days that you can go back to college and be reunited with your friends, freedom, and good times? Living in Westchester, a county about an hour and a half away from the city can sometimes seem boring. You’re close enough to New York City that you can hop on a train at any given point, but being on a tight college budget doesn’t make that too practical. Let’s get real: the train ride alone is $25, not to mention crazy food prices and subways -- it adds up. Not to worry, though, Westchester can be surprisingly fun if you’re looking for outdoor activities that won’t break your bank account! Below are 10 hidden gems of Westchester that will keep you entertained this summer:

1. Turkey Mountain

This “mountain” is perfect if you're not much of a hiker or if you don’t have a lot of time but want a quick outdoor hike. Turkey mountain is located in Yorktown Heights and is a spot that holds dear to my heart being that it is in my hometown. If you live in Yorktown you have probably taken a class trip here at least once or twice. Nevertheless, it’s a quick little hike and actually has a decent view when you get to the top. Definitely an easy go-to.

2. Bear Mountain

Bear Mountain is larger than Turkey Mountain and holds many different trails ranging from easy to difficult and challenging. It’s a perfect mountain to hike if you have a little extra time to explore. The views at the top definitely beat turkey mountain but are trickier to get to. Whichever trail you choose will be scenic and not disappointing.

3. Breakneck Ridge

Breakneck ridge is located in Cold Spring and is a very strenuous hike but rewarding, to say the least. The hike to the peak takes about one and half, to two hours depending on your level of skill. Once at the peak, you will have a breathtaking view of the Hudson River along with the spectacular landscape that makes up the Hudson Valley. Although the hike is remarkable it must be taken with caution due to the severity of the steepness and amount of unstable rocks.

4. Teatown Lake Reservation

Located in Ossining, Teatown Lake Reservation is known for its beautiful nature preserve and educational opportunities. Teatown is devoted to educating the public about the environment and surrounding ecosystems. Teatown is open every day of the week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. waiting for its trails to be discovered by eager explorers.

5. Croton Dam

Looking for more of a relaxing day but also still want to enjoy some fresh air? The Croton Dam is located in Croton Gorge Park in Croton-on-Hudson (did I mention it was in Croton) and is the perfect place for a picnic. The view of the falls itself is spectacular and with picnic benches all around, it's the ideal place for a nice getaway lunch. Bring a frisbee and some friends! Or even your dog -pets are allowed on leashes!!

6. Outdoor Movies

Feeling like a blast from the past? Kensico Dam offers drive-in movies, best part? They’re totally FREE! Bring some friends and blankets and enjoy some entertainment under the stars.

7. Rockefeller State Park

Located in Pleasantville, Rockefeller State Park is noted for its nature trails, fern garden, swan lake, and much more. This park is perfect for artists and photographers as it offers incredible scenic views. If you’re looking for peace and serenity this is definitely the park for you.

8. Bash Bish Falls

This incredible waterfall is located in Mount Washington seemingly in Massachusetts but actually has a parking lot in the Hudson Valley! The hike to the falls isn't too intense and is definitely worth the amazing view and refreshing cool down.

9. Indian Brook Falls

Found in the Constitution Marsh Sanctuary in Cold Spring, this hidden waterfall is definitely worth being discovered. If you’re not trying to get a wet, check out the marsh area with scenic trails and cool photo ops!

10. Boating

If you’re looking for a relaxing day on a lake, check out Franklin D. Roosevelt park in Yorktown Heights. FDR Park has pedal and row boat rentals for all your boating needs! It also has designated fishing areas along with grills for a quick lunch break. There are picnic tables around the park and large areas for outdoor activities.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

98818
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments