Frozen Lake Tiorati Snowstorm

Harriman State Park
Orange Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
None

Total Time: 1:30
Estimated Distance: 2.7 miles

Pros: Scenic frozen lake, islands
Cons: None
Hike Type: Loop
Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/UmszqVnwFxUaAUie7

This hike was the day of the blizzard of 2026 before the snowstorm. It was already snowing lightly but the main snow started late in the afternoon. I took the opportunity to hike on the frozen lake and visit the islands of Lake Tiorati. I tried parking at the ice fishing parking area off Seven Lakes Drive, which is open whenever the lake is frozen. However, it was very muddy and I didn't want to get my car stuck, so I left and parked at the parking area at Tiorati Circle.

I then proceded from the northern side of the lake, near the beach, down to the main island, and then traversed the island from north to south. I then continued to the next large island, and then to the shore of the lake on the south. I then turned around and headed to the east side of the lake near the dock at the camp, and then continued back to the Tiorati Circle and back to my car in the parking area.

Map of the Route

Lake Tiorati Beach

Walking Along Lake Tiorati

Lake Tiorati Islands

Ice Fisherman

South Side of Lake Tiorati

Eastern Side of Lake Tiorati

Frozen Lake Welch

Frozen Lake Welch
Harriman State Park,
Rockland Co.,
New York

Total time: 0:07 hour
Estimated Distance: 0.2 miles

I had made an attempt to hike along Lake Welch to the islands, and then wanted to go around the other side of the causeway to the western side of the lake. The lake was posted as safe by the rangers, and I measured fishing holes about a foot thick, so the ice layer was really no concern. But upon arriving at the lake, I found it quiet and deserted, with a bit of slush from the recent snow melt, and didn't feel comfortable walking along the lake on my own. So after walking from the parking area about 50 feet into the lake, I turned around and went back to my car. I then opted to move on to Sterling Mine Lake, which in the end turned out to be a much better choice (see the next post.) Nevertheless, I still managed to take a few good photos.

Map of the Short Route

Descending Along the Boat Launch area to Lake Welch

Where the Boat Launch Meets Lake Welch

Lake Welch Facing Southeast

Facing Towards the Islands on Lake Welch