One of the great things about New York State, aside from all the different cities you can visit, is its many beautiful beaches.
One of these great beaches that often gets overlooked or not known about enough in this state is Lake Tiorati Beach, which is located in Orange County. The name Tiorati comes from the meaning “Blue like Sky.” Its name comes from an Algonquin phrase “resembling the sky.” It is a lake that was constructed by creating a concrete dam and digging up some swampland.
This family-oriented beach offers plenty to tourists and locals alike, including free parking, lifeguards on duty during summer months, picnic areas, and much more!
Whether you are looking for an active day on the beach or just some time to relax and enjoy the sun, this community beach offers plenty of fun activities and entertainment without feeling too crowded.
Here is everything you can do at Lake Tiorati Beach.
1. Boat Launches
Spring is the perfect time to prepare your boat for a season of fun on the water. If you’re looking for a great place to launch your boat, Lake Tiorati is a great option. The lake is just a few hours from New York City and offers stunning views of the Bear Mountains.
To launch your boat, head to the Lake Tiorati beach and follow the signs to the boat launch area. You’ll need to purchase a permit in advance, but once you have everything you need, you’ll be ready to enjoy a day of boating fun.
2. Fishing & Ice Fishing
Situated in Harriman State Park, Lake Tiorati is a man-made lake created in 1910. Today, it is a popular spot for fishing. The lake is home to largemouth, bass, perch, pumpkinseed, bullhead, bluegill, and chain pickerel.
The lake freezes over the winter, making it a prime destination for ice fishing if the conditions allow.
If you’re planning a trip to Lake Tiorati for some winter fun, here are a few things to keep in mind.
First, bring all the necessary equipment, including an ice auger, skimmer, and bait. It’s also important to dress warmly and wear boots with good traction. When you arrive at the lake, check the thickness of the ice before venturing. Finally, remember to practice catch and release – the fish population in Lake Tiorati is monitored closely, so it’s important to help preserve it for future generations.
If you are planning to enjoy summer fishing, make sure to pack enough sunscreen! The sun can be pretty intense out on the lake. But that’s all part of the fun, right? So come down to Lake Tiorati and enjoy a day of fishing in the park.
3. Grills & Barbecue
Make your next cookout memorable by firing up the grill at Lake Tiorati beach, Orange County. This picturesque spot is the perfect place to enjoy a day of picnicking with friends and family. And when it’s time to eat, you’ll be able to enjoy your food with a stunning view of the lake. The beach offers both charcoal grills and electric stoves, so you’ll be able to cook whatever type of food you like.
There are also plenty of picnic tables, so there’s no need to worry about packing your chair or table. So come to Lake Tiorati and enjoy a cookout you’ll always remember.
4. Hiking
The beach offers 9.4 miles of a hiking trail near Harriman State Park. The best time to go is in the early morning when the air is still and the sun is just starting to peek over the mountains. The trailhead is easy to find, and the trail itself is well-marked
It’s a moderate hike, with some uphill sections, but nothing too strenuous. The views are stunning, and plenty of places to stop and take photos. The lake itself is gorgeous, and it’s worth taking the time to explore. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a nice day out, Lake Tiorati is a great option.
Attractions Near Lake Tiorati Beach
1. Stony Point Battlefield
The Stony Point Battlefield attraction is located near Lake Tiorati in New York. It is the site of the American victory over the British during the Revolutionary War. The battlefield is now a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public for tours and picnics.
The Stony Point Battlefield is a great place to learn about American history and the Revolutionary War. Visitors can see the remains of the British fortifications and the monument that marks the spot where General George Washington led his troops to victory.
There are also several hiking trails through the woods, making it a great place to get some fresh air and enjoy nature.
2. Perkins Memorial Tower
Perkins Memorial Drive and Tower is a scenic overlook in Bear Mountain State Park, New York. The overlook is named after George W. Perkins, a former chairman of the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference board.
The tower was built in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps and offers panoramic views of the Hudson Highlands, Harriman State Park, Storm King Mountain, and the Catskill Mountains.
The tower is open to the public from dawn to dusk and is accessible by car from April through November. From December through March, the tower is only accessible by foot. Visitors can either hike up the mountain or take the ski lift to reach the top of the tower.
There are also several hiking trails in the area that lead to other scenic overlooks. Perkins Memorial Drive and Tower is a popular destination for locals and tourists.
3. Museum Village of Old Smith’s Clove Monroe
Museum Village is a living history museum that tells the story of rural life in America in the 19th century. The museum is located on the site of an actual 19th-century hamlet. Visitors can step back in time as they explore the village, which includes a blacksmith shop, schoolhouse, church, and general store.
Museum Village also offers a variety of hands-on activities, such as pottery making and candle dipping. In addition, the museum grounds include a walking trail and a scenic picnic area. Whether interested in history or just looking for a fun day trip, Museum Village will surely be a hit with the whole family.
Bottomline- Is It Worth Visiting?
Indeed, Lake Tiorati Beach is worth visiting for several reasons. Firstly, the lake is lovely, surrounded by trees and a sandy shoreline. Secondly, the beach area is well-kept and includes a playground, picnic tables, and grills, making it a great spot for a family outing. Thirdly, the lake is stocked with trout, making it a good spot for fishing. Finally, the beach is located in Harriman State Park, which offers hiking trails and other outdoor activities.
In short, Lake Tiorati Beach is worth a visit if you’re looking for a beautiful spot to enjoy some time outdoors.