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Wampus Pond Park, 102-acres in size, is located at Route 128, Armonk NY 10504, Westchester County. Wampus Pond is named after the Indian from whom this land was bought in 1696. Wampus Pond means “opossum". A recent cultural resources inventory performed by Parker Harrington indicates that early 20th century rock shelters, several Native American artifacts and remnants of historically significant residential developments were found within or near the park.
The natural pond, at one time known as Wampus Lake Reservoir, was once part of the New York City water supply. In 1963 the County bought Wampus pond and 93-acres from the City of New York.
Things To Do Boating Boat Rental (summer weekends) Fishing Ice-Skating Nature Study Picnicking
Croton Point Park is a 508-acre park situated on a peninsula on the east shore of the Hudson River. This park offers year-round events and activities, including camping, hiking, and swimming. Also, home of wine cellars, thought to be the oldest in New York State, and the Croton Point Nature Center that offers a year-round schedule of interpretive programs.
Things To Do Boat Launch Cabin Rental, RV Camping, and Tent Camping Fishing Hiking / Walking Historic Wine Cellars Museum Nature Study Pavilions Picnicking Playground Swimming Beach
Harbor Island Park is located at Mamaroneck Avenue and Boston Post Road in Mamaroneck, NY 10543, Westchester County. Harbor Island is the largest park in Mamaroneck village with 44-acres of playground equipment such as swings; and a pavilion, rest rooms and showers.
For great summer fun bring your boat to the marina and boat launching area. Also available are docks, fishing floats, tennis club, picnic tables, benches, swing benches, ball fields, play fields, parking, concerts and special events. In the hot days of summer, cool off and go swimming at the 700 ft. salt water beach, or have fun at the spray ground. Press blue button for more about Harbor Island Park and Harbor Island Conservancy.
Things To Do Boat Launch Concerts Fishing Marina Picnicking Playground Playing Fields Salt Water Beach (700 feet) Showers Spray Ground Tennis Club
George’s Island Park, a 208-acre waterfront park, is located on Dutch Street, Montrose NY 10548, Westchester County in the Hudson River. George's Island offers magnificent views of the historic Hudson River. It contains tidal wetlands, a fresh water pond and wooded trails, and provides boat access to the Hudson River as well as areas for nature study and picnicking.
Things To Do Boat Launch Fishing Hiking Trails Nature Study Picnicking Playground Playing Fields
Glen Island Park, 105-acre in size, is located in New Rochelle NY 10805, Westchester County. Glen Island is an island property connected to New Rochelle by a drawbridge built in the 1920s. "After Playland, Glen Island is the second most widely used park in the County Parks system. One of Westchester’s unique jewels . . . Today the islands have been merged with substantial fill areas totaling 130 acres and providing a beautiful crescent shaped beach with access to the Long Island Sound. In the hot days of summer, enjoy swimming at the beach.
Glen Island Park also offers picnic pavilions, and open picnic areas, boat launching, pathways, a catering hall and a restaurant, formerly Glen Island Casino of Big Band era fame. Cannons, sculptures and castles with coursed rubble stone, arched openings and round towers still remain from the days of John Starin’s resort. The castles, reminiscent of those in Germany's Rhineland, were constructed on their present site in the late 19th century for use as a beer garden and restaurant.
The boat ramp handles 65-70 launchings per weekend. The bathhouse was originally built in a Neo-Georgian style with a cupola marking the center of the front façade. A courtyard looks out to the beach and is completed by a colonnade. The bridge, bridge house, seawall and castles are all eligible for listing on the Register of Historic Places." Press blue button for more about Glen Island Park.
Things To Do Boat Launch Fishing Hiking Trails / Walking Nature Study Picnicking Playground Refreshments Swimming Beach
The Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park is located at 2957 Crompond Road, Yorktown Heights NY 10598, Westchester County. The Franklin D. Roosevelt Park offers many scenic views. The park's spacious picnic areas, which can accommodate individual families as well as large groups, may be reserved in advance. The park's large pool can hold 4,000 bathers at one time.
The park's oasis of blue water, Mohansic Lake and Crom Pond, provide excellent freshwater fishing and boating. Popular catches include bass, perch, and sun fish. A New York State Freshwater Fishing License is required. Both rowboats and pedal boats are available for rental; however, a regional boating permit allows visitors to launch their own rowboats, canoes or kayaks. For an additional fee, rowboat owners may also store their boats. In wintertime, the water's tree lined border provides a winter wonderland backdrop for ice skaters and ice fisherman.
The park's picnic areas have volleyball nets and many have softball fields or basketball courts. There is also a soccer field. Sports enthusiasts may wish to try their hand at Disc golf, a short distance from the picnic areas. You can play either 9 or 18 holes. The rules and scorecards are located at the course and loaner Frisbees are available from the park office. The park’s hills and trails are perfect for winter sports.
Things To Do Biking Boat Launch Sites Boat Rentals Fishing Food Golf Course Hiking Trails / Walking Picnic Tables Playground Playing Fields Pool Recreation Programs
Thompson's Lake State Park is located at 68 Thompsons Lake Road, East Berne NY 12059, Albany in the Hudson Valley. Thompson's Lake State Park, nestled in the mountains just four miles from the Helderberg Escarpment, is a popular camping ground and recreation area. In addition to 140 wooded campsites, the park offers a sandy beach, mixed hardwood and conifer forests, limestone outcroppings and open fields. Recreational opportunities include a volleyball court, horseshoe pits, a playing field, swing-sets, carry-in boat access, rental row boats, fishing areas, and nature trails. Interpretive and recreational programs are offered for campers throughout the summer. During the winter, visitors can cross-country ski and ice fish.
The Emma Treadwell Thacher Center is located on Thompson's Lake next to the campground and is accessible to campers. The center opened in July 2001 and offers exhibits, interactive displays, trails for hiking and skiing, and educational programs. Boat Launch Site - Carry in Only
Press blue button for hours of operation, directions, fees and rates, and more about Thompson's Lake State Park.
Things to Do Beach (sandy beach) Boat Launches Boat Rentals Camper Recreation Campsites Fishing Hiking Horseshew Pits Nature Trails Picnic Tables Playgrounds Playing Fields Recreational Programs
in 2005 Lake Taghkanic State Park was named one of the Top 100 Campgrounds in the nation. Lake Taghkanic State Park, nestled next to Lake Taghkanic in the rolling hills and lush forests of Columbia County, offers a wonderful variety of recreational activities. The park has tent, trailer campsites, cabin, and cottage camping facilities. In the hot days of summer you can go swimming at one of the two beaches. Have picnics at the picnic grounds and launch your boat at the boat launch. In addition, the park has hiking, biking, cross-country ski and snowmobile trails. Ice skating and ice fishing are permitted when conditions are appropriate.
There are three Vacation Rental Cottages that have the amenities of home. The units are outfitted with a bathroom with toilet and shower, a kitchen with hot and cold running water, refrigerator, stove, microwave, cooking and eating utensils, enclosed/screened-in back porch facing the water, a picnic table and fire ring. Press blue button for photos, and more about Lake Taghkanic State Park.
Things To Do Beach Biking Boat Launch sites Boat Rentals Cabins & Campsites Fishing Food Hiking Hunting Pavilions Picnic Tables Playground & Playing Field(s) Showers Sledding, Snowmobiling & Snowshoeing Tent/Trailer Sites Vacation Rentals
Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park is a wonderful park for outdoor enthusiasts. This 14,086-acre park, covering land in Putnam and Dutchess counties, boasts hiking trails, picnic areas, scenic campground, and abundant opportunities for boating, hunting, fishing, and birding. On the hot days of summer, go swimming at the park's beautiful beach.
The park is also home to the Taconic Outdoor Education Center which provides high quality environmental programming. In the winter, you can enjoy the Fahnestock Winter Park that includes 15 kilometers of groomed trails for cross country skiing and snowshoeing, and an area for sledding.
The large beach at Canopus Lake is the jewel of Clarence Fahnestock Memorial Park. Its sandy shore and nearby picnic area are enjoyed by thousands of bathers. In addition to swimming, campers and day trippers can fish in or tour Canopus Lake by row boats which are available for rental by the hour or the day. Fishing by boat is permitted at Stillwater and Canopus Lakes. Fishing at both lakes and four ponds is excellent in all seasons for anglers seeking bass, pickerel, perch or brook and rainbow trout.
The scenic campground, formed along the park’s natural rock ridges, provides alcoves of privacy and tranquility for campers. Each of the 80 campsites has a picnic table and fire ring. Additionally there is an area for RV camping. The campground’s nature center houses environmental displays and a variety of touch boxes. On weekends, park staff organizes hikes and craft activities. Movies are shown on Saturday evenings for the enjoyment of all campers.
Fishkill Ridge Hudson River Valley, New York State
At the northern gateway to the fabled Hudson Highlands, this rugged 1900-acre park is home to eagles, falcons and numerous rare species.
The 11.5 miles of trails on Fishkill Ridge connect to thousands of acres in Hudson Highlands State Park and the summit of Mount Beacon. This largest and must rugged of Scenic Hudson's properties features some of the valley's best hiking opportunities, including the access to two of the highest peaks east of the Hudson River.
Some of the region's best hiking trails connect to thousands of acres in Hudson Highlands State Park and on historic Mount Beacon.
Things To Do Access two of the highest peaks east of the Hudson River Birding - Eagles, Falcons, and rare species Hiking Trails Panoramic views of Hudson River and Catskill Mountains
Directions View our Fishkill Ridge Trail Map information and maps that will guide you on a quest to learn about the history and ecology of Fishkill Ridge.
Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, parking information, maps, photos and to view Scenic Hudson's Fishkill Ridge Trail Map.
After a beautiful day viewing the Hudson Highlands, select from one of many excellent restaurants in Dutchess County and nearby areas.
Margaret Lewis Norrie State Park is located at Staatsburg NY 12580, Dutchess County in the Hudson River Valley. A serene wooded area with glimpses of the river provides an ideal location. The park's marina as well as its camping sites are extremely popular, as are the numerous hiking trails.
Margaret Lewis Norrie State Park adjoins Ogden Mills and Ruth Livingston Mills Memorial State Park and together, comprise more than 1,000-acres. Margaret Lewis Norrie State Park offers a full menu of exhilarating recreational opportunities and activities for visitors of all ages.
A serene wooded area with glimpses of the river provides an ideal location for camping. A marina consisting of slip space and a boat launch ramp is a popular area within the park. Press blue button for directions, and more about the activities and attractions available at Margaret Lewis Norrie State Park.
Things To Do Biking Boat Launches Cabins Campsites Dockage Fishing Golf Grills Hiking Marina (Marina Pump Out Stations) Nature Trails Pavilions Picnic Tables Powerboats Scenic Views Showers (Handicap Accessible) Tent/Trailer Sites
The Hudson River Fishermen’s Association provides a list of Hudson River Boat Launch Ramps in the Hudson River Valley.
"Sometimes finding the fish is easier than finding a place to launch your boat. Thus, the need for this list. The Hudson River Fishermen’s Association is concerned about having your experience of our river a pleasurable one. Enjoy our resource and always leave it cleaner than you found it." Press blue button for information about fishing the Hudson River, and for places to launch your boat.
Riverbank State Park is located at 679 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10031. Riverbank State Park is the only park of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. Inspired by urban rooftop designs in Japan, this 28-acre multi-level landscaped recreational facility is a state-of-the-art park facility. Rising 69 feet above the Hudson River, Riverbank offers a wide variety of recreational, athletic and arts experiences for all ages, interests and abilities.
Housed in five major buildings are an Olympic-size pool, a covered skating rink for roller skating in the summer and ice-skating in the winter, an 800-seat cultural theater, a 2,500-seat athletic complex with fitness room, and a 150-seat restaurant.
Outdoor sports amenities include a 25-yard lap pool, a wading pool, four tennis courts, four basketball courts, a softball field, four hand/paddleball courts, and a 400-meter eight-lane running track with a football/soccer field.
Riverbank also boasts spectacular promenade views of the Hudson River, the Palisade Mountains and the George Washington Bridge. At water level, there is a 900-seat amphitheater and docking facilities for excursion and fishing boats.
Points of Interest: The "Totally Kid Carousel", created by Milo Mottola and 37 young children.
Things To Do Carousel Food Gymnasium Hiking Performing Arts Center Picnic Tables Playground Playing Fields Pool Roller Skating Showers Tennis Water Level
Winter Activities Ice Skating
Amphitheater Docking facilities (excursion and fishing boats)
Chadwick Lake Park is located immediately to the northwest of Junction NY32 and 300, in the Cronomer Valley section of Newburgh NY 12550, Orange County in the Hudson River Valley.
Chadwick Lake is a reservoir supplying water to the Town of Newburgh. The reservoir was created by damming Quassaick Creek in 1926. Today, most of the town's water is supplied by New York City's Delaware Aqueduct, with the reservoir acting primarily as a backup.
Chadwick Lake Park is open to the public with recreational facilities near the southern end of the park. Attractions include three picnic shelters, a playground, walking trails, boating launches, basketball courts, ice skating and a roller rink. Fishing is also allowed on the lake; largemouth bass is a common catch.
Note: A permit is required for entrance to Chadwick Lake Park.
Things To Do Basketball Biking Trail around the lake Boating Boat launches Bocce Fishing Picnic Shelter Playground Roller Hockey Rink Roller Rink Walking/Hiking Trail around the lake
7 Lakes Drive, Orange and Rockland counties Hudson River Valley, New York State
7 Lakes Drive in Harriman State Park, built in 1913, runs approximately 20 miles between Sloatsburg, NY on the southern end to Bear Mountain State Park on the northern end. A scenic ride along Seven Lakes Drive passes lakes Sebago, Skanatati, Askoti, Kanawauke, Tiorati, Nawahunta and Silver Mine Lake.
Enjoy things to do in all seasons at one or more of these beautiful lakes. Go fishing in the summer or ice-fishing in the winter. Hike summer, spring, winter, and fall; especially in the fall when the air is cooler and you can see the stunning foliage of autumn in New York. The lakes that comprise 7 Lakes Drive, offer activities and attractions year round; including swimming, boating, fishing, and fabulous bird watching.
Click to enlarge photo of Lake Askoti in Harriman State Park.
Lake Askoti, approximately 41-acres in size, is located in Harriman State Park. Lake Askoti, a tributary of Lake Skannatati River in Orange County, is surrounded by hiking trails offering beautiful vistas and great hiking. Enjoy excellent fishing throughout the year, including the winter freeze, when many fisherman return for ice fishing on the lake. Lake Askoti also offers excellent bird watching sites.
Click to enlarge photo of Lake Skannatati in Harriman State Park.
Lake Skannatati, approximately 36.3 acres in size, is located in Orange County in the Town of Tuxedo, New York. Lake Skannatati is located very near Lake Askoti and is one of 31 lakes and reservoirs in Harriman State Park.
The parking lot, located adjacent to Lake Skannatati, provides convenient parking close to the boat launch site and provides easy access to several hiking trails.
Lake Skannatati offers hiking trails for all levels of hikers, including trails, at varying elevations, around the lake. Launch your boat and enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Fish species present include Largemouth Bass, Brook Trout and Pan fish.
Click to enlarge photo of Lake Tiorati in Harriman State Park.
Lake Tiorati Beach in Harriman State Park is located in Orange County, New York
Lake Tiorati was formed by clearing swampland in Harriman State Park and constructing a concrete dam to make two ponds into one large lake. Surrounded by meadows and rolling, wooded hills, the park offers excellent swimming, fishing, boating and picnicking. In winter, if conditions allow, the lake may be used for ice fishing. Bona fide groups may use the pioneer campsites near the lake.
Bear Mountain State Park is located on the west side of the Hudson River in Orange County and Rockland County, New York. The 5,067-acre (20.51 km2) Bear Mountain State Park, flagship of the Palisades Interstate Park System, is renowned for its natural beauty and rugged mountains and is just 45 miles north of New York City, in the historic and beautiful Hudson River Valley.
Lakes, ponds, forest, hills, and mountains abound at Bear Mountain. Bear Mountain is heavily forested, offering the natural beauty of sights such as Perkins Memorial Point,
Of interest to hikers, the historic Appalachian Trail is carried across the Bear Mountain Bridge and the Popolopen Suspension Bridge. Although campgrounds and lodging are available, Bear Mountain Park is primarily a day-use park offering magnificent scenery, photo opportunities, and great hiking for all levels of hikers. The historic Bear Mountain Inn, situated in Bear Mountain Park, overlooks Hessian Lake and provides food and overnight accommodations. Food is also available at several vendors around Hessian Lake and in other areas of the park.
Bear Mountain Park attractions and activities include: a large playing field, picnic groves, rowboat docks on Hessian Lake, swimming pool and bathhouse, nature trails including key segments of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and the Long Path, basketball court, Trailside Museums and Zoo, Iona Island Estuarine Reserve and Bird Refuge, Perkins Tower, and the Merry-Go-Round. Many winter activities are available at Bear Mountain Park, including an outdoor rink that is open for ice-skating from late October through mid-March.
Perkins Memorial Tower sits 1,305 feet above the Hudson River, atop Bear Mountain. Perkins Point and Perkins Memorial Tower afford spectacular views of the park, the Hudson Highlands and Harriman State Park. Driving, biking, or hiking along Perkins Memorial Drive offers breathtaking views from many vantage points leading to Perkins Memorial Tower perched at the top of the mountain. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of many picnic spots that are available along Perkins Memorial Drive.
Click to enlarge photo of sign - Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery.
Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery Walk the Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery where you will "stand on the site of Fort Clinton, which was built along with Fort Montgomery to prevent British ships from sailing up the Hudson River during the Revolutionary War. On October 6, 1777, the British captured both forts and destroyed them shortly thereafter.
"This trail leads down to the Popolopen Creek and across the Popolopen Suspension Footbridge to Fort Montgomery State Historic Site. Fort Montgomery is an archeological site and a historic ruin. Interpretive signs and an audio tour are available to help understand the history of the fort and the battle."
More fun and educational attractions for kids include the Trailside Museum and Zoo, and the Merry-Go-Round featuring 42 hand carved seats of native animals. After a ride on the merry-go-round, visit the zoo and see how many native animals you can recognize. (Perhaps your children can help name the animals.) .
Great kids Attraction - Merry-Go-Round The Merry-Go-Round at Bear Mountain features hand painted scenes of the park and 42 hand carved seats of native animals including: black bear, wild turkey, deer, raccoon, skunk, Canada goose, fox, swan, bobcat, rabbit and more.
Great kids Attraction - Trailside Museum and Zoo There are four museums at Trailside. The Reptile and Amphibian House is home to a variety of turtles, snakes, frogs, toads, salamanders and skinks as well as many species of fish. The Nature Study Museum houses specimens originally created by the Museum of Natural History to educate people about animal identification. Visitors can learn about geologic formations of the Hudson Highlands in the Geology Museum and local Native American and early settler culture in the History Museum.
Things To Do Biking Trails in Hudson Valley Boat Rentals Dockage Fishing (lake and river fishing) Food at park and at Bear Mountain Inn Hiking Trails / Walking Merry-Go-Round Pavilion Nature Trail Perkins Memorial Drive & Tower Picnic Tables Playground Playing Fields Pool (very large pool) Swimming Trailside Museums Zoo and Nature Park
Harriman State Park, located in Rockland and Orange counties, is the second-largest park in the parks system, with 31 lakes and reservoirs, 200 miles of hiking trails, three beaches, two public camping areas, a network of group camps, miles of streams and scenic roads, and scores of wildlife species, vistas and vantage points. Harriman State Park includes Lakes Welch, Sebago, Tiorati and Silvermine, the Anthony Wayne Recreation Area, Sebago Cabins and Beaver Pond Campgrounds.
Press blue button for park description, hours of operation, getting there, fees, and more about Harriman State Park.
Lake Kanawauke - Harriman State Park
Lake Kanawauke is a 186-acre reservoir (mostly man made) in Harriman State Park. The lake is located in the Town of Tuxedo, Orange County, and in the Town of Haverstraw, Rockland County, NY. Lake Kanawauke is comprised of three parts, the lower, middle, and upper lakes.
The word is Lake Kanawauke offers great fishing in Rockland County. The fish are plentiful with huge bass; also plentiful are perch, pan fish, and carp.
Scenic Drives 7 Lakes Drive in Harriman State Park, built in 1913, runs approximately 20 miles between Sloatsburg, NY on the southern end to Bear Mountain State Park on the northern end. A scenic ride along Seven Lakes Drive passes lakes Sebago, Skanatati, Askoti, Kanawauke, Tiorati, Nawahunta and Silver Mine Lake.
Lake Sebago Beach in Harriman State Park is located in Rockland County, New York. Lawns, fields and picnic areas surround Lake Sebago Beach. In addition to swimming on the sandy beach, anglers can fish for bass, perch, sunfish and more.
Press blue button for park description, hours of operation, getting there, fees, and more about Lake Sebago Beach at Harriman State Park.
Scenic Drives 7 Lakes Drive in Harriman State Park, built in 1913, runs approximately 20 miles between Sloatsburg, NY on the southern end to Bear Mountain State Park on the northern end. A scenic ride along Seven Lakes Drive passes lakes Sebago, Skanatati, Askoti, Kanawauke, Tiorati, Nawahunta and Silver Mine Lake.
Lake Skannatati - Harriman State Park
845-786-2701
Click to enlarge photo of Lake Skannatati in Harriman State Park.
Lake Skannatati, approximately 36.3 acres in size, is located in Orange County in the Town of Tuxedo, New York. Lake Skannatati is located very near Lake Askoti and is one of 31 lakes and reservoirs in Harriman State Park.
The parking lot, located adjacent to Lake Skannatati, provides convenient parking close to the boat launch site and provides easy access to several hiking trails.
Lake Skannatati offers hiking trails for all levels of hikers, including trails, at varying elevations, around the lake. Launch your boat and enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Fish species present include Largemouth Bass, Brook Trout and Pan fish.
Scenic Drives 7 Lakes Drive in Harriman State Park, built in 1913, runs approximately 20 miles between Sloatsburg, NY on the southern end to Bear Mountain State Park on the northern end. A scenic ride along Seven Lakes Drive passes lakes Sebago, Skanatati, Askoti, Kanawauke, Tiorati, Nawahunta and Silver Mine Lake.
Click to enlarge photo of Lake Tiorati in Harriman State Park.
Lake Tiorati Beach in Harriman State Park is located in Orange County, New York
Lake Tiorati was formed by clearing swampland in Harriman State Park and constructing a concrete dam to make two ponds into one large lake. Surrounded by meadows and rolling, wooded hills, the park offers excellent swimming, fishing, boating and picnicking. In winter, if conditions allow, the lake may be used for ice fishing. Bona fide groups may use the pioneer campsites near the lake.
Press blue button for directions and more about Lake Tiorati.
Scenic Drives 7 Lakes Drive in Harriman State Park, built in 1913, runs approximately 20 miles between Sloatsburg, NY on the southern end to Bear Mountain State Park on the northern end. A scenic ride along Seven Lakes Drive passes lakes Sebago, Skanatati, Askoti, Kanawauke, Tiorati, Nawahunta and Silver Mine Lake.
Silver Mine is part of the beautiful and scenic Harriman State Park, located in Rockland and Orange counties. The Silver Mine area of Harriman State Park offers picnic grounds, fishing, hiking, and a boat launch site.
Scenic Drives 7 Lakes Drive in Harriman State Park, built in 1913, runs approximately 20 miles between Sloatsburg, NY on the southern end to Bear Mountain State Park on the northern end. A scenic ride along Seven Lakes Drive passes lakes Sebago, Skanatati, Askoti, Kanawauke, Tiorati, Nawahunta and Silver Mine Lake.
Sterling Forest® State Park, a 17,953-acre park of nearly pristine natural refuge, is located at 116 Old Forge Road, Tuxedo NY 10987, Orange County in the Hudson Valley. Sterling Forest Park located in one of the nation's most densely populated areas is a remarkable piece of woodland, a watershed for millions, and a tremendous outdoor recreation area. This unbroken deep-forest habitat is important for the survival of many resident and migratory species, including black bear, a variety of hawks and songbirds and many rare invertebrates and plants.
Things To Do Biking Boat Launches Fishing Hiking Hunting Ice Fishing Museum / Visitor Center Recreation Programs Snowshoeing Scenic Views
Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park is a wonderful park for outdoor enthusiasts. This 14,086-acre park, covering land in Putnam and Dutchess counties, boasts hiking trails, picnic areas, scenic campground, and abundant opportunities for boating, hunting, fishing, and birding. On the hot days of summer, go swimming at the park's beautiful beach.
The park is also home to the Taconic Outdoor Education Center which provides high quality environmental programming. In the winter, you can enjoy the Fahnestock Winter Park that includes 15 kilometers of groomed trails for cross country skiing and snowshoeing, and an area for sledding.
The large beach at Canopus Lake is the jewel of Clarence Fahnestock Memorial Park. Its sandy shore and nearby picnic area are enjoyed by thousands of bathers. In addition to swimming, campers and day trippers can fish in or tour Canopus Lake by row boats which are available for rental by the hour or the day. Fishing by boat is permitted at Stillwater and Canopus Lakes. Fishing at both lakes and four ponds is excellent in all seasons for anglers seeking bass, pickerel, perch or brook and rainbow trout.
The scenic campground, formed along the park’s natural rock ridges, provides alcoves of privacy and tranquility for campers. Each of the 80 campsites has a picnic table and fire ring. Additionally there is an area for RV camping. The campground’s nature center houses environmental displays and a variety of touch boxes. On weekends, park staff organizes hikes and craft activities. Movies are shown on Saturday evenings for the enjoyment of all campers.
Foundry Dock Park Village of Cold Spring, Putnam County Hudson River Valley, New York State
Foundry Dock Park officially opened in June 2006. This riverfront park is enjoyed by many who come to relax, enjoy the spectacular views of the Hudson or launch a kayak.
Before Scenic Hudson purchased this riverfront property for public access, it was sorely neglected but enjoyed as a favorite put-in for small boats. Scenic Hudson and volunteers cleared the property and the popularity of the site increased as the interest in kayaking on the river and into Constitution Marsh Audubon Sanctuary grew. Scenic Hudson is pleased to ensure that this magnificent property, with its history and easy access to the river, connects people with the power and spirit of the river.
If you live in Manhattan, take a scenic drive or take Metro North to Cold Spring; and visit Foundry Dock Park.
Things To Do Birding Boat Launch (available for small boats) Kayaking Scenic views
Directions From intersection of Route 9 and Route 301, take Route 301 west for 2.6 miles to intersection of Route 9D at traffic light. Proceed west on Route 301/Main Street for four blocks; turn left on Lunn Terrace to end; turn left on Market Street. Park entrance on right. Free weekend parking adjacent to the train station. By train, exit Cold Spring station.
Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, parking information, maps, photos and more about Foundry Dock Park.
After a day of kayaking, fishing, or relaxing at this beautiful spot in Cold Springs, select from one of many excellent restaurants in Cold Spring and nearby areas in Putnam County.
The word is Wonderful handicapped-accessible park overlooking the beautiful Hudson River and Hudson Highlands.
Cherry Plain State Park is located at 26 State Park Road, Cherry Plain NY 12040, Rensselaer County in the Hudson Valley. Cherry Plain State Park has 175-acres and features a sandy beach on Black River Pond, with bathhouse and comfort station nearby. Picnic grounds and a boat launch are adjacent to the beach. The park also has bridle paths and hiking, biking and nature trails that serve for cross-country skiing in winter. Anglers fish for bass, bullheads and pickerel and may also ice fish in winter. The park also has 10 trailer sites and 10 lakeside tent sites available for overnight camping. Press blue button for hours of operation, directions, fees and rates, camping reservations, and more about Cherry Plain State Park.
Things to Do Beach (sandy beach) Biking Boat Launch Boat Rentals Camping Sites Fishing Food Hiking Horseback Riding Picnic Table and Pavilions Playground Recreational Programs Showers
7 Lakes Drive, Orange and Rockland counties Hudson River Valley, New York State
7 Lakes Drive in Harriman State Park, built in 1913, runs approximately 20 miles between Sloatsburg, NY on the southern end to Bear Mountain State Park on the northern end. A scenic ride along Seven Lakes Drive passes lakes Sebago, Skanatati, Askoti, Kanawauke, Tiorati, Nawahunta and Silver Mine Lake.
Enjoy things to do in all seasons at one or more of these beautiful lakes. Go fishing in the summer or ice-fishing in the winter. Hike summer, spring, winter, and fall; especially in the fall when the air is cooler and you can see the stunning foliage of autumn in New York. The lakes that comprise 7 Lakes Drive, offer activities and attractions year round; including swimming, boating, fishing, and fabulous bird watching.
Click to enlarge photo of Lake Askoti in Harriman State Park.
Lake Askoti, approximately 41-acres in size, is located in Harriman State Park. Lake Askoti, a tributary of Lake Skannatati River in Orange County, is surrounded by hiking trails offering beautiful vistas and great hiking. Enjoy excellent fishing throughout the year, including the winter freeze, when many fisherman return for ice fishing on the lake. Lake Askoti also offers excellent bird watching sites.
Click to enlarge photo of Lake Skannatati in Harriman State Park.
Lake Skannatati, approximately 36.3 acres in size, is located in Orange County in the Town of Tuxedo, New York. Lake Skannatati is located very near Lake Askoti and is one of 31 lakes and reservoirs in Harriman State Park.
The parking lot, located adjacent to Lake Skannatati, provides convenient parking close to the boat launch site and provides easy access to several hiking trails.
Lake Skannatati offers hiking trails for all levels of hikers, including trails, at varying elevations, around the lake. Launch your boat and enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Fish species present include Largemouth Bass, Brook Trout and Pan fish.
Click to enlarge photo of Lake Tiorati in Harriman State Park.
Lake Tiorati Beach in Harriman State Park is located in Orange County, New York
Lake Tiorati was formed by clearing swampland in Harriman State Park and constructing a concrete dam to make two ponds into one large lake. Surrounded by meadows and rolling, wooded hills, the park offers excellent swimming, fishing, boating and picnicking. In winter, if conditions allow, the lake may be used for ice fishing. Bona fide groups may use the pioneer campsites near the lake.
Bear Mountain State Park is located on the west side of the Hudson River in Orange County and Rockland County, New York. The 5,067-acre (20.51 km2) Bear Mountain State Park, flagship of the Palisades Interstate Park System, is renowned for its natural beauty and rugged mountains and is just 45 miles north of New York City, in the historic and beautiful Hudson River Valley.
Lakes, ponds, forest, hills, and mountains abound at Bear Mountain. Bear Mountain is heavily forested, offering the natural beauty of sights such as Perkins Memorial Point,
Of interest to hikers, the historic Appalachian Trail is carried across the Bear Mountain Bridge and the Popolopen Suspension Bridge. Although campgrounds and lodging are available, Bear Mountain Park is primarily a day-use park offering magnificent scenery, photo opportunities, and great hiking for all levels of hikers. The historic Bear Mountain Inn, situated in Bear Mountain Park, overlooks Hessian Lake and provides food and overnight accommodations. Food is also available at several vendors around Hessian Lake and in other areas of the park.
Bear Mountain Park attractions and activities include: a large playing field, picnic groves, rowboat docks on Hessian Lake, swimming pool and bathhouse, nature trails including key segments of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and the Long Path, basketball court, Trailside Museums and Zoo, Iona Island Estuarine Reserve and Bird Refuge, Perkins Tower, and the Merry-Go-Round. Many winter activities are available at Bear Mountain Park, including an outdoor rink that is open for ice-skating from late October through mid-March.
Perkins Memorial Tower sits 1,305 feet above the Hudson River, atop Bear Mountain. Perkins Point and Perkins Memorial Tower afford spectacular views of the park, the Hudson Highlands and Harriman State Park. Driving, biking, or hiking along Perkins Memorial Drive offers breathtaking views from many vantage points leading to Perkins Memorial Tower perched at the top of the mountain. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of many picnic spots that are available along Perkins Memorial Drive.
Click to enlarge photo of sign - Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery.
Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery Walk the Popolopen Creek Trail to Fort Montgomery where you will "stand on the site of Fort Clinton, which was built along with Fort Montgomery to prevent British ships from sailing up the Hudson River during the Revolutionary War. On October 6, 1777, the British captured both forts and destroyed them shortly thereafter.
"This trail leads down to the Popolopen Creek and across the Popolopen Suspension Footbridge to Fort Montgomery State Historic Site. Fort Montgomery is an archeological site and a historic ruin. Interpretive signs and an audio tour are available to help understand the history of the fort and the battle."
More fun and educational attractions for kids include the Trailside Museum and Zoo, and the Merry-Go-Round featuring 42 hand carved seats of native animals. After a ride on the merry-go-round, visit the zoo and see how many native animals you can recognize. (Perhaps your children can help name the animals.) .
Great kids Attraction - Merry-Go-Round The Merry-Go-Round at Bear Mountain features hand painted scenes of the park and 42 hand carved seats of native animals including: black bear, wild turkey, deer, raccoon, skunk, Canada goose, fox, swan, bobcat, rabbit and more.
Great kids Attraction - Trailside Museum and Zoo There are four museums at Trailside. The Reptile and Amphibian House is home to a variety of turtles, snakes, frogs, toads, salamanders and skinks as well as many species of fish. The Nature Study Museum houses specimens originally created by the Museum of Natural History to educate people about animal identification. Visitors can learn about geologic formations of the Hudson Highlands in the Geology Museum and local Native American and early settler culture in the History Museum.
Things To Do Biking Trails in Hudson Valley Boat Rentals Dockage Fishing (lake and river fishing) Food at park and at Bear Mountain Inn Hiking Trails / Walking Merry-Go-Round Pavilion Nature Trail Perkins Memorial Drive & Tower Picnic Tables Playground Playing Fields Pool (very large pool) Swimming Trailside Museums Zoo and Nature Park
Beaver Pond Campgrounds adjoin the Lake Welch Recreation Area within Harriman State Park. The campgrounds include tent and trailer sites as well as accommodations for larger vehicles. Comfort stations, showers, laundry facilities, and a dumping station are part of the campgrounds. In 2005, this parks facility was named one of Reserve America's Top Outdoor Locations.
Things To Do Beach Boat Launch Sites Camper Recreation Campsites Fishing Hiking Trails / Walking Picnic Tables Showers Tent & Trailer Sites
Harriman State Park, located in Rockland and Orange counties, is the second-largest park in the parks system, with 31 lakes and reservoirs, 200 miles of hiking trails, three beaches, two public camping areas, a network of group camps, miles of streams and scenic roads, and scores of wildlife species, vistas and vantage points. Harriman State Park includes Lakes Welch, Sebago, Tiorati and Silvermine, the Anthony Wayne Recreation Area, Sebago Cabins and Beaver Pond Campgrounds.
Press blue button for park description, hours of operation, getting there, fees, and more about Harriman State Park.
Lake Kanawauke - Harriman State Park
Lake Kanawauke is a 186-acre reservoir (mostly man made) in Harriman State Park. The lake is located in the Town of Tuxedo, Orange County, and in the Town of Haverstraw, Rockland County, NY. Lake Kanawauke is comprised of three parts, the lower, middle, and upper lakes.
The word is Lake Kanawauke offers great fishing in Rockland County. The fish are plentiful with huge bass; also plentiful are perch, pan fish, and carp.
Scenic Drives 7 Lakes Drive in Harriman State Park, built in 1913, runs approximately 20 miles between Sloatsburg, NY on the southern end to Bear Mountain State Park on the northern end. A scenic ride along Seven Lakes Drive passes lakes Sebago, Skanatati, Askoti, Kanawauke, Tiorati, Nawahunta and Silver Mine Lake.
Lake Sebago Beach in Harriman State Park is located in Rockland County, New York. Lawns, fields and picnic areas surround Lake Sebago Beach. In addition to swimming on the sandy beach, anglers can fish for bass, perch, sunfish and more.
Press blue button for park description, hours of operation, getting there, fees, and more about Lake Sebago Beach at Harriman State Park.
Scenic Drives 7 Lakes Drive in Harriman State Park, built in 1913, runs approximately 20 miles between Sloatsburg, NY on the southern end to Bear Mountain State Park on the northern end. A scenic ride along Seven Lakes Drive passes lakes Sebago, Skanatati, Askoti, Kanawauke, Tiorati, Nawahunta and Silver Mine Lake.
Lake Skannatati - Harriman State Park
845-786-2701
Click to enlarge photo of Lake Skannatati in Harriman State Park.
Lake Skannatati, approximately 36.3 acres in size, is located in Orange County in the Town of Tuxedo, New York. Lake Skannatati is located very near Lake Askoti and is one of 31 lakes and reservoirs in Harriman State Park.
The parking lot, located adjacent to Lake Skannatati, provides convenient parking close to the boat launch site and provides easy access to several hiking trails.
Lake Skannatati offers hiking trails for all levels of hikers, including trails, at varying elevations, around the lake. Launch your boat and enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Fish species present include Largemouth Bass, Brook Trout and Pan fish.
Scenic Drives 7 Lakes Drive in Harriman State Park, built in 1913, runs approximately 20 miles between Sloatsburg, NY on the southern end to Bear Mountain State Park on the northern end. A scenic ride along Seven Lakes Drive passes lakes Sebago, Skanatati, Askoti, Kanawauke, Tiorati, Nawahunta and Silver Mine Lake.
Click to enlarge photo of Lake Tiorati in Harriman State Park.
Lake Tiorati Beach in Harriman State Park is located in Orange County, New York
Lake Tiorati was formed by clearing swampland in Harriman State Park and constructing a concrete dam to make two ponds into one large lake. Surrounded by meadows and rolling, wooded hills, the park offers excellent swimming, fishing, boating and picnicking. In winter, if conditions allow, the lake may be used for ice fishing. Bona fide groups may use the pioneer campsites near the lake.
Press blue button for directions and more about Lake Tiorati.
Scenic Drives 7 Lakes Drive in Harriman State Park, built in 1913, runs approximately 20 miles between Sloatsburg, NY on the southern end to Bear Mountain State Park on the northern end. A scenic ride along Seven Lakes Drive passes lakes Sebago, Skanatati, Askoti, Kanawauke, Tiorati, Nawahunta and Silver Mine Lake.
Lake Welch Beach in Harriman State Park is located in Rockland County, New York. The beach at Lake Welch is man-made with its half-mile-long sandy beach in the wooded hills of the Ramapo Mountains. Lake Welch is the largest beach in Harriman State Park. Originally a small body of water with farmland around the edges, Lake Welch became the large lake that it is today when a dam was completed in 1942. In the hot days of summer, have a great day swimming at the beach.
The word is The beach can get very crowded on summer weekends.
Nyack Beach State Park is located at 698 North Broadway, Upper Nyack NY 10960, Rockland County in the Hudson Valley. Nyack Beach Park boasts 61-acres of riverfront along the Hudson in Rockland County. The most popular activities are picnicking, hiking, bicycling and fishing. Trails are open for cross-country skiing in winter.
Things To Do Biking Boat Launch Sites Fishing Hiking Trails / Walking Picnic Tables
Rockland Lake State Park is located at 299 Rockland Lake Road, Valley Cottage NY 10989, Rockland County. The lake is located on a ridge of Hook Mountain above the west bank of the Hudson River.
The park offers two Olympic-sized swimming pools and two kiddies pools for swimming on the hot days of summer. After a swim, enjoy a picnic at the picnic tables and grills. The park also offers a car-top boat launch and boat rentals, hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley, six tennis courts and two golf courses. Anglers can fish Rockland Lake for bass, perch and norlunge; walkers and joggers can use the fitness trail around the lake. Winter visitors enjoy designated cross-country ski trails and sledding slopes.
Things To Do Biking Boat Launch Sites Boat Rentals Fishing Food Golf Hiking Trails / Walking Nature Trail Picnic Tables Playground Swimming (2 Olympic sized pools and kiddies pool) Tennis
Silver Mine is part of the beautiful and scenic Harriman State Park, located in Rockland and Orange counties. The Silver Mine area of Harriman State Park offers picnic grounds, fishing, hiking, and a boat launch site.
Scenic Drives 7 Lakes Drive in Harriman State Park, built in 1913, runs approximately 20 miles between Sloatsburg, NY on the southern end to Bear Mountain State Park on the northern end. A scenic ride along Seven Lakes Drive passes lakes Sebago, Skanatati, Askoti, Kanawauke, Tiorati, Nawahunta and Silver Mine Lake.
Department of Environmental Conservation A Hudson River boat launch is located at Lake Welch in Stony Point, Rockland County.
Features Hard surface ramp Parking = 10 cars and trailers Electric motors. Permit and key required, available from park manager of Beaver Pond Campground.
Location Harriman State Park. On Route 106, 6 miles west of Stony Point
Atlantic Kayak Tours is located at 320 West Saugerties Road, Saugerties NY 12477, Ulster County in the Hudson River Valley. Atlantic Kayak Tours is the largest paddlesport company in the tri-state area. We paddle in locations along the Hudson River from New York Harbor to the Albany area, and along the Atlantic coastline from southern New Jersey to Cape Cod. Our kayaks are first quality craft from a variety of U.S. and British designers. Our paddles and accessory equipment is, likewise, first rate.
Atlantic Kayak Tours is the largest and most experienced kayak outfitter in the New York tri-state area, specializing on the Hudson River Valley. We offer over 75 different kayak tours and instructional programs from New Jersey to Cape Cod. Tours and instructional programs are offered at our Annsville Creek Paddlesport Center and Norrie Point Paddlesport Center located in New York on the Hudson River.
Cantine Veterans Sports Complex, a 127-acre sports and recreation complex, is located at the Washington Avenue Extension, Saugerties, NY 12477 in Ulster County.
in Biking Bowling Parks Playgrounds Recreation 127 acre Sports Complex featuring 11 baseball / softball fields, 4 soccer fields, a fully enclosed refrigerated ice arena, 3 playgrounds, 4 pavilions, trails, basketball courts, horseshoe pits, indoor and outdoor shuffle board courts and a senior citizens' multi-purpose recreation center. Many other year-round recreational services. Roadways and parking.
Things To Do Ball fields (11) Bandstand (enclosed) Basketball courts (3) Conference center Grandstands (2 covered) Hiking Trails (views of the Catskills and Berkshires Horseshoe pits (8) Pavilions (4 with service Kitchenettes) Picnic areas and barbeque equipment Playgrounds, (3) including a Small World Playground Senior Citizen’s multi-purpose recreation center Shuffleboard courts (indoor and outdoor) Soccer fields (4 regulation size) Tennis courts (4 lighted)
The Catskill Park is a mountainous region of public and private lands in Southeastern New York's Ulster, Greene, Delaware and Sullivan Counties - the "forest preserve" counties. Ninety-eight peaks over 3,000 feet high form an impressive skyline. Its blend of public and private lands is typical of large parks in Europe, where people and unique lands have coexisted for centuries. The Catskill Forest Preserve is the state land within the Catskill Park. Since its creation in 1885, it has grown from 34,000 to 287,500 acres. An 1894 amendment to the New York State Constitution (now Article 14) directs:
"the lands of the State now owned or hereafter acquired, constituting the forest preserve as now fixed by law, shall be forever kept as wild forest lands. They shall not be leased, sold or exchanged, or be taken by any corporation, public or private, nor shall the timber thereon be sold, removed or destroyed."
The forest preserve has thousands of acres of forests with meadows, remnants of old farmsteads, lakes, rivers, springs, waterfalls, cliffs, fire towers, bears, rattlesnakes and other wildlife, rare plants and animals. Also, there are hundreds of miles of abandoned woods roads and trails to enjoy. Today, it serves as watershed, recreation area and ecological and scenic reserve. Press blue button for more information about the following outdoor activities:
Attractions and Outdoor Activities Accessible Recreation Boating Camping Cross-Country Skiing Fishing Hiking & Rock Climbing Hunting Shellfishing Trapping Snowmobiles
Minnewaska State Park Preserve is located at 5281 Route 44-55, Kerhonkson NY 12446, Ulster County in the Hudson Valley. Minnewaska State Park is situated on the dramatic Shawangunk Mountain ridge that rises more than 2,000 feet above sea level. The terrain is rugged and rocky, blanketed by dense hardwood forest encircling two lakes. Clear streams cut into valleys, incising sheer cliffs and ledges and emerging in waterfalls.
Come visit Minnewaska State Park Preserve, one of the most unique and beautiful parks in New York State, featuring numerous waterfalls, three crystalline sky lakes, more cliff-edge views that we can mention, world-class rock climbing and 35 miles of carriageways and 25 miles of footpaths on which to bike, walk, hike and simply enjoy. And, all this within an hour and a half drive from New York City.
Things To Do Beach Biking Boat Launch Boating Food Hiking / Walking Horseback Riding Hunting Picnicking Scenic Views Swimming
Winter Activities Cross-country Skiing
Boat Launch Sites
Westchester County
Hudson Valley
Select a boat launch site from our list of boat launches in Westchester County. Call for the exact location of the boat launch ramps, for fees, and specific hours of operation.
Trailering and Launching Boats
One essential activity of the boater that distinguishes the experienced boater from the novice is trailering and launching. These skills require practice, and with practice come proficiency and the development of a routine. Once a routine is established, maintenance problems are reduced to a minimum, safety concerns are minimal, and the boater can concentrate on the pleasures of boating.
Trailering
Make sure your rig is secure before towing. Check the hitch ball and/or slug to make sure they are tight. Walk around the rig and make sure all straps are tight and secure, the lower unit is up, and wheel chocks or other obstructions are clear.
Back the tow vehicle up to the trailer. If you have help, have your partner stand beside the trailer tongue to help with alignment on the hitch ball. One system that works well is to have your partner hold a "thumbs up" when the hitch ball is in line with the tongue. If off to left or right, point in the direction the tow vehicle needs to go to get on line. If necessary, raise the tongue with the jack wheel to clear the ball.
When the tongue is on the ball, close the spring lock that keeps the coupler secure on the ball and put the hitch pin or bolt in so it can't pop off. The rig may need to be pulled forward for the tongue to set fully down on the ball. Raise the jack wheel so it is out of the way.
Hook the chains diagonally across (left to right, right to left) to the tow vehicle. If this part of the hitch system fails, the idea is for the chains to catch the tongue to keep it from driving into the ground. Hook the chain for the surge brake system to the tow vehicle.
Connect the lights and make sure they work. Check running, brake, turn signals and emergency flasher lights.
Check to make sure that the winch cable and safety chain are secured tightly to the boat.
Launching
Pull off to side in an area to prepare the boat for launch. Make sure vehicle and rig are not blocking the launch area or approaches.
Load personal gear into the boat. Put gear from the boat (canvas cover, straps, etc.) into the tow vehicle.
Turn the blower on to ventilate the bilge area. Open the engine compartment to help the process. Use your nose to smell for fumes; nothing works better than your sense of smell for detecting the odor of gasoline.
Put fenders out where appropriate to protect the boat when it is being launched. Prepare any lines that will help tie the boat off once it's in the water.
Check the lower unit to make sure the gear oil is topped off. If the oil is foamy, water is mixed with the oil. The oil needs to be replaced and gaskets replaced on both the fill and air vent holes. If the boat is an inboard outdrive and the lower unit is down, raise it before moving the trailer.
Put the drain plug in. If it is already in, check to make sure it is tightly in place.
Approach the ramp and back your trailer to the edge of the water. If you have two people, put one on board to help the driver judge when the trailer is in the right depth of water.
Unplug the lights.
Remove the straps that hold the boat on the trailer at the stern and/or amidships area of the boat if you have not done so already. Store in the boat for easy access when pulling the boat out. Do not remove the winch and safety chain hooks on the bow eye until the boat and trailer are in the water!
Back the trailer into the water. If there is someone on board, they can signal when to stop with the horn. A good rule of thumb is to back the trailer in until the trailer wheel hubs are just above the surface of the water. This might not work depending on the gradient of the ramp and how quickly it drops off. All ramps are different, so trial and error will play a big part in learning the ramps in your area. Note: Mechanics who work on trailer brakes recommend that trailer hubs never be submerged in salt water. If they are dunked, make sure they are rinsed off with fresh water at the end of the day and expect major brake work a minimum of every two years. Chock the wheels of the tow vehicle.
Lower the inboard/outdrive -- Check clearance for the lower unit to avoid damage. Start the boat and warm it up for two to five minutes. Remove the winch hook from the bow eye, release the lock or ratchet and remove the hooks. If the boat doesn't roll off the trailer, it will need to be put in forward gear to take tension off the cable. Put the throttle in forward gear when the engine is warmed up with just enough power to take tension off the cable. The partner can take the hook off and give the "O.K." hand signal to the operator. Communication between partners is essential to avoid injuries. Sometimes the weight of the boat is not enough to pull the cable out. Sometimes the gradient of the ramp is not steep enough for the boat to roll off. Put the boat in reverse, release the lock or ratchet, and back off two or three feet. Once the cable pays out, put the boat in neutral and remove the hook. It may help to throttle forward a short distance to slacken the cable.
Remove the hook and back the boat away from the ramp to a waiting area. Keep the boat clear of launch/retrieval area so other boaters can use the ramp.
Retrieving the boat
Retrieving the boat is the reverse of launching it. Key steps to take before getting on the road are:
Check to see that all straps and cables are tight.
Raise the lower unit.
Plug lights in and check to see that they are operational.
On a regular basis, nuts and bolts should be checked to make sure they are tight. Tires should be checked regularly and rotated. If your trailer is big, consider having it x-rayed once every 2-3 years for structural damage.