One of the most iconic waterfalls in New York State's Hudson Valley is the Croton Dam spillway waterfall within
Croton Gorge Park that cascades approximately 200 vertical feet from the Croton Reservoir.
This easy 0.8-mile loop walk in Croton-on-Hudson, New York leads visitors to the base of the Croton Gorge waterfall, up to the top of the Croton Dam to reach views of the reservoir, then sends you back down the pathway of the Old Croton Aqueduct.
Fees
Visitors should note that as of June 2026, entrance to the park is $10/vehicle without a park pass and $5/vehicle with a park pass.
Exploring the Croton Gorge Waterfall & Reservoir
This short walk starts at the main parking area and first leads to the base of the Croton Dam spillway waterfall. While the route reaches the best view first, visitors will find views of the waterfall as they drive over the entrance bridge to reach the start of the walk, so the view is mostly spoiled upon entry anyway. From the base of the cascade, you'll notice the brutalist-style steps that make-up the foundation of the dam's spillway along with natural rock formations that were left untouched by the engineers in ~1907. The juxtaposition of the natural waterfalls mixed with the spillway's brutalist-styled steps and an arching bridge overhead leaves visitors with thoughts of how humans continue to shape nature for their own benefit.
Hike to the Reservoir - Mile 0.1 to 0.35
Once you're done exploring views of the waterfall, you might want to consider using that $10 entry fee to explore a bit more of the park before you leave. One option is to head straight up to the top of the Croton Dam to grab views of the Croton Reservoir. This route does exactly that and follows an unofficial trail that runs along the base of the dam, uphill, to reach the very top. The ascending path is somewhat steep with sections of both over-compact and loose soil, but ends along the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail. From here, you can choose to walk out along the entire length of the dam, crossing the footbridge, and completing a loop; however, if the temperature is just too hot you can turn back here like we did. Take in views of the still waters of the Croton Reservoir, then the hike back begins.
Old Croton Aqueduct Trail to Parking - Mile 0.35 to 0.8
If you want to stay in the shade along an easy stroll back to parking, you can follow this route down the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail which leads along an easy grade, following a switchback, to reach the parking area. Wrap up the short walk at mile 0.8 and don't forget to enjoy views of the waterfall on your ride out of the park.
Parking
Visitors will find a large parking lot at the coordinates provided (
41.22623, -73.857534) located in Croton-on-Hudson at Croton Gorge Park.
Pets
Dogs are allowed only if leashed and must be cleaned up after.
Hours
The park is open from 8AM to dusk every day, year-round. For updated hours, please visit the park's
official website.
