Top 8 Lakes around Kinnelon

For a remote natural experience with excellent paddling and fishing, consider Ramapo Lake. If you're looking for a community-focused lakeside experience with swimming, boating, and fishing, the Fayson Lakes (Fayson, Kitty Ann, and Rainbow Lakes) are ideal. Canty's Lake within Silas Condict County Park is great for nature lovers and hikers, offering tranquil and rugged experiences.

Yes, several lakes are family-friendly. Cedar Lake Swimming Dock is a popular residential lake with beach areas for swimming, fishing, and boating. The Fayson Lakes community also offers sand beaches, lifeguarded swimming areas, and a clubhouse with social activities, making it very family-oriented. Lake Kinnelon is also suitable for families, offering hiking, fishing, and kayaking.

You'll find a variety of hiking trails. Lake Kinnelon features a 1.3-mile nature trail with viewpoints and marked tree species. Silas Condict County Park, home to Canty's Lake, offers trails ranging from easy walks to more strenuous hikes with scenic lake views. For more options, explore the running trails around Kinnelon, which include routes like the Wanaque Ridge Trail Loop.

Autumn is particularly recommended for visiting Lake Kinnelon, when the foliage displays vibrant colors. Generally, the warmer months are best for water activities like swimming and boating, while spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and enjoying the scenic beauty.

Yes, kayaking and boating are popular activities. Lake Kinnelon is suitable for kayaking. The Fayson Lakes allow various non-motorized boats such as kayaks, canoes, rowboats, paddleboards, and sailboats. Ramapo Lake is also a popular spot for paddlers.

Fishing is a popular activity in the region. Lake Kinnelon is regularly stocked with various fish, including Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, Perch, Pickerel, and Sunfish. Ramapo Lake and Cedar Lake Swimming Dock are also known for good fishing opportunities.

Lake Kinnelon, formerly Stickle Pond, was dammed in 1888 and features four islands, including Chapel Island with its chapel built in 1896. Tree stumps from before the dam's construction line its bottom. Cedar Lake Swimming Dock is on a lake that was originally used as an ice factory.

The region offers various cycling routes. You can find options for general cycling and road cycling. Some routes, like the Taylortown Reservoir loop, pass by lakes and offer scenic views. The Fayson Lakes community also has private trails for mountain biking.

The lakes are rich in wildlife. Lake Kinnelon supports a healthy fish population along with turtles and beavers, and offers opportunities for wildlife watching. Silas Condict County Park, home to Canty's Lake, is known for diverse wildlife, including various bird species and American black bears.

While popular, Ramapo Lake offers a more remote natural experience with spectacular highland scenery, providing a sense of being away from it all despite its proximity to Route 23. Canty's Lake within Silas Condict County Park also offers tranquil experiences amidst rugged nature.

Yes, Cedar Lake Swimming Dock is a popular residential lake with beach areas for swimming. The Fayson Lakes community also provides members with access to beautiful sand beaches and lifeguarded swimming areas.

Taylortown Reservoir is notable for its beautiful surrounding nature within the Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area. An Orange Trail leads along its western side, offering scenic views of the public water supply system.