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Hiking
Hiking (including cross country skiing and snowshoeing) is allowed on many City-owned watershed lands that are marked with Watershed Recreation Signs stating “Entry by Permit” or “Public Access Areas.” For lands that require a permit, you can apply for your permit online through our Access Permit System. All recreational users should pay very close attention to the types of signs that are present because properties marked with “No Trespassing” or “Posted” signs are not open for public use, including areas immediately around New York City reservoirs.
Many old logging roads exist that are well-suited for hiking, cross country skiing, or snowshoeing. Hikers are encouraged to visit designated hiking properties where they can often discover hidden treasures such as scenic waterfalls and breathtaking vistas. Dogs are generally allowed on City-owned lands but they must be well-behaved and controllable. Any animal waste should be promptly cleaned up and removed.
Use our Interactive Recreation Map to find City-owned properties and understand the types of recreation that are permitted in each area. You can also download Recreation Area Maps and Use Designations by County. For answers to commonly asked questions about hiking and DEP Access Permits, visit Hiking FAQs and DEP Access Permit FAQs.
Recreation Unit Closures
Please read and follow the Watershed Recreation Signs posted in these project areas.
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Hubbard Hill Recreational Unit: Town of Conesville, Schoharie County. An 88 acre area is temporarily closed due to an active forest management project. Hiking, Hunting and Trapping are all prohibited until the completion of this project (anticipated Summer 2026). City lands located north of Hubbard Road are not affected by this closure and remain open for recreation.
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Mile Shore Recreational Unit: Town of Hurley, Ulster County. The Mile Shore Rec Unit is temporarily closed due to an active forest management project. Access for Hunting & Trapping, Fishing, Boating, and Hiking are all restricted until project completion (anticipated Summer 2026). This closure affects all City reservoir lands from Baker Road south to access gate E23C. Please check for updates, follow signage posted on site, and stay back from any workers or equipment on site.
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Speedwell Mountain Recreational Unit: Town of Tompkins, Delaware County. 160 acres of the 3,708-acre Speedwell Rec Unit will be temporarily closed due to a DEP-administered forest management project. Access to the unit off Dryden Road and the forestland northwest of the road and natural gas pipeline will be restricted until further notice. The western side of the ridge facing Chamberlain Brook and other areas within the rec unit will remain open.