Catskill Aqueduct

The Catskill Aqueduct is a water pipeline stretching roughly 92 miles from Ashokan Reservoir through multiple counties to Hillview Reservoir in Yonkers. The system uses gravity alone to push water downhill without needing pumps along the way.

Construction of the aqueduct began in 1907 and finished in 1916 to supply drinking water to New York City's fast-growing population. The project was part of a wider push to modernize the city's infrastructure during the early 1900s.

Named after the Catskill Mountains, the source of its water, this structure shapes how people see the landscape it crosses. Visitors notice ventilation shafts and small buildings scattered along the route that mark the hidden water flow beneath the ground.

Visitors can see various above-ground access points and inspection buildings scattered across the region where the pipeline runs. The best way to explore is by car or bike, as you can stop at different sections along the entire route.

The deepest section runs roughly 1,100 feet beneath the Hudson River, making it the lowest point in the city's water system. This underground passage was blasted through solid rock to cross beneath the river without any surface disruption.

Location: New York

Elevation above the sea: 226 m

Part of: New York City water supply system

GPS coordinates: 41.84860,-74.13720

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:04