Autumn on the Old Put: Brewster & East Branch Reservoir

Take the Great Saunter Fall Challenge! Register here to walk 32 miles over 16 days, starting October 3rd. Help Shorewalkers support our parks by donating $10 to participate, with all fees going to the Riverside Park Conservancy. This walk will count for all of your total miles!

Pace: Moderate and steady. Please note that restroom facilities along the route may be limited.

You might know the history of the "Old Put" starting at the former Sedgwick Ave station in the Bronx, or maybe you've walked its familiar stretch through Van Cortlandt Park. But this time, let’s go all the way to where it all starts—the northern terminus of the Old Put (The New York and Putnam Railroad) in Brewster, NY!
We’ll take on this route and detour onto the Danbury & Campbell Branch section, tracing the scenic shores of the East Branch Reservoir. Perfect timing to soak in the crisp air and peak autumn colors! 🍂

Route Layout (Out-and-Back):

Main Walk (7–8 miles): We’ll start right at the train station and head east for about 3-4 miles before returning to the station. Anyone looking for a shorter day can finish here!
Optional Extension: If you're up for more mileage, join us as we head west from the station to explore a bit further before turning back.

Meeting point: Brewster Metro-North train station platform
Metro-North Harlem Line : 9:14 AM departure from Grand Central Terminal, arriving at Brewster at 10:43 AM.
Return trains to NYC are available at 3:11, 4:07, 5:09．．．．,

Please bring enough water, lunch, and sunscreen.
Sam Chen 732.447.3275

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Reminders

1. Read Before Signing Up: This hike involves detailed logistics and coordination. For safety and smooth operation, please read the entire hike description carefully.
2. Drop Early: If your plans change, cancel immediately. Do not wait until the day before or the morning of the hike. Holding a spot without genuine intention to attend directly impacts your eligibility for future events.
3. Waitlist Policy: Priority is given to reliable hikers. Everyone remains on the waitlist until responses are confirmed. You may be passed over if you have a history of late cancellations and no-shows, or fail to demonstrate a commitment to group punctuality, maintaining the shared pace, and cooperating with team coordination. Waitlisted members who are fully committed may PM me to express interest; additions are conditional and subject to host discretion.
4. Stay Updated: Weather and train/bus schedules are subject to unexpected changes. Please check the comments and pinned updates the night before and the morning of the hike.