Brownstoner Upstate: Exploring Ulster County's Ashokan Reservoir

You can’t tell by looking at it, but a wealth of history lurks beneath the still blue surface of the Ashokan Reservoir. Several towns’ worth of history, in fact.

Roads, blacksmith shops, churches, private residences, thousands of acres of farmland, and untold personal items all became submerged when the reservoir, located in Ulster County, was constructed in the early 20th century to provide water to New York City. While it still supplies water to New York, the 190-foot-deep basin has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Catskills, providing visitors a place to boat, fish (with the appropriate permits, of course), and behold some seriously gorgeous views.

The Ashokan Reservoir is situated in the western part of Ulster County, approximately three hours from Brooklyn. It is surrounded by landmark hamlets such as Olivebridge, West Shokan, and West Hurley. It’s also close to Woodstock, Phoenicia, and the city of Kingston, placing it squarely in the midst of Vacation Land up north.

Ashokan Reservoir bridge. Photo by Jessica Arches via Wikimedia Commons

If you go: Bring bikes. It’s fun to ride along the bridges and walkways that take you across the reservoir. Here’s a GMAP showing the walkways and the parking areas. Or, if you prefer, walk it. It’s an easy stroll.

If it’s fishing you’re after, things get a bit more complicated. Your vessel will need to be NYC DEP approved, and you’ll need to procure a fishing license.

The DEP cops don’t play around and issue fines for unlicensed angling. Go to the DEP website for information on permits and boating regulations.

Nearby eateries: Our favorite spots to stop on the way to or from the reservoir include Winchell’s Pizza in Shokan, the Pineview Bakery in Shandaken (their bakery items are delicious, but bring cash), and the Reservoir Inn in West Hurley.

Woodstock is about 10 minutes away for even more choices. For DIYers, pop into the Hurley Ridge Market and make a gourmet picnic.

Pineview Bakery via Facebook

Real estate near the reservoir: West Hurley, Shokan, and Olivebridge are great places to look for either a full-time residence or a second home in the Catskill Mountains, so we suggest you head over to Brownstoner’s Upstate real estate listings to find out what’s available. Here are two of our favorite properties in West Shokan, just a stone’s throw from the shores of the Ashokan.

317 Watson Hollow Road, West Shokan: $279,000

This three-bedroom Contemporary sits in a woodsy spot right on the Bush Kill Creek in West Shokan on an acre and a half of land. Located 10 minutes from the Reservoir. Beds: 3. Baths: 1.5. Square Feet: 1458. Lot Size: 1.48 acres. Est. Taxes: $5294. 317 Watson Hollow Road, West Shokan (Westwood Metes & Bounds) GMAP.

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145 Watson Hollow Road, West Shokan: $105,000

If you’re looking for something a bit more modest as a base of operations while you explore the Catskills, consider this affordable two-bedroom cottage. It’s practically next-door neighbors with the first property, so the Bush Kill finds its way here, too.

Lot size is small, but for a sweet little place to rest after a long day of adventuring, this could fit the bill. Beds: 2. Baths: 1. Square Feet: 858. Lot Size: .25 acres. Est. Taxes: $1107. 145 Watson Hollow Road, West Shokan (Coldwell Banker) GMAP.

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3179 State Route 28, Shokan: $379,000

Finally, if you are looking to brush off the city life or want to roll up your sleeves and get busy upstate, you might consider this commercial property. It’s occupied by an antique shop and a restaurant, Winchell’s Pizza, mentioned above. Square Feet: 5844. Lot Size: 1.7 acres. Year built: 1920. 3179 State Route 28, Shokan (Coldwell Banker) GMAP.