Nestled along the Hudson River, the Ossining Sing Sing Kill Greenway is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This scenic trail offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike.
History and Significance
The name “Sing Sing Kill” may sound ominous, but it actually has a rich historical background. The term “kill” originates from the Dutch word for “creek” and is commonly used in the region to denote a small stream or tributary. On the other hand, the Village of Ossining used to be called the Village of Sing Sing. Sing Sing comes from the name of the Sint Sincks, a native American people who inhabited this area for thousands of years. It roughly translates to “a stony place.”
Trail Features
The Ossining Sing Sing Kill Greenway is a 1/3 mile concrete walkway that lets visitors stroll in the Sing Sing Kill’s rocky gorge, with the stream rushing along beneath it and trees clinging to the sides.
The new walkway is ADA-compliant and has steel railings along its full length.
History and Ecology
The Sing Sing Kill, also known as Kill Brook, empties into the Hudson River after traveling several miles through four major branches from upstream ponds and lakes.
From the beginning into the 1900s the Sing Sing Kill was an important source of drinking water, water for the ice making businesses in the area such as the Schmidt Ice House, and a vital source of water wheel power for local industries. There were several mills along the Sing Sing Kill.
Over time, population growth, overdevelopment, household and industrial chemical run-off, and other pollution encroached on the Kill’s ecological diversity and ecosystem balance.
Starting in the 1970s, remediation began, largely led by civic-minded community groups and a growing awareness that protection of the Hudson River starts with ensuring the cleanliness of tributaries like the Sing Sing Kill.State and local authorities are now committed to maintaining healthy streams and assuring that all of New York’s fresh water resources are safe for drinking and recreational use. They’re not quite there yet, but getting better all the time.
No longer hidden from view since the opening of the new public access Greenway in 2016, the Sing Sing Kill now boasts cleaner water, healthier fish populations, and spectacular views of the historic double aqueduct arches. In the summer of 2016, research by HVAS confirmed nine species of fish in the Sing Sing Kill.
The Double Arch structure was once famed for its successful mix of style and utility. It spans the Sing Sing Kill and the beautiful brick water chute tal below. The larger arch. built around 1840, boasts a
pedestrian esplanade and houses the Croton Aqueduct pipe that once delivered water to New York City. It is now part of a 26-mile New York State linear park. The lower arch was completed in the 1860s.
Plan Your Visit
Parking is available in 2 parking lots at the Joseph Caputo Community Center. Alternatively, if you start from the other end of the walkway on Central Ave, there is street parking available on some sections of Central Ave.
Whether you’re a local resident looking for a peaceful retreat or a visitor eager to explore the beauty of New York’s Hudson River Valley, the Ossining Sing Sing Kill Greenway offers a unique and memorable experience for all who visit.
Image: The Ossining Recreational Center’s parking lot and the easiest entrance to the greenway.
More info and Map: here