Free, easy loop beginning and ending at Dows Lane in Irvington. Enjoy the mostly level, shaded walk in one of the most storied sections of the Aqueduct. Learn about the remarkable Villa Lewaro, the estate of Madam CJ Walker, the African-American entrepreneur who was America’s first female self-made millionaire. Walk the grounds of Lyndhurst Mansion, country home of notorious robber baron Jay Gould and location site for HBO’s “The Gilded Age.” Take in the Hudson River views on the Riverwalk where you will see a lovely waterfall.

Along the way, you will learn about the Washington Irving connection with Irvington, the history of the Aqueduct as well as the current and the future state of Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park. At the end of the walk, there is an optional glimpse of the unique Armour-Stiner Octagon House. Tickets for a tour of the Octagon House can be purchased separately on their website: Armour-Stiner Octagon House.

Four miles total, the walk is approximately 2.5 hours. There is a short hill at Lyndhurst, otherwise the walk is level.

Meet on the Aqueduct at Dows Lane, Irvington at 10:00 am.

Directions – Dows Lane is west of Route 9/Broadway in Irvington. (GPS to 50-100 Dows Ln, Irvington, NY 10533). Parking is along the tennis courts which you will see to your right as soon as you enter Dows Lane. There is additional parking at Dows Lane School, a short distance down the road. The Metro-North Hudson Line stops at Irvington. From the train station, walk up the hill on Main Street to Aqueduct Lane, turn right on the Aqueduct and walk .4 miles to the meeting point.

Required: pre-registration (limited number). Masks are optional but social distancing is encouraged. Walk will be rescheduled in the event of rain.