Field Operations designed this one-of-a-kind swim destination, including the floating pool (“swim crib”), upland beach and gathering areas, a ridge trail with multiple overlooks surrounding the lake, and the setting for a bathhouse pavilion designed by Model of Architecture Serving Society (MASS).
Formed by limestone quarrying operations, Lake Sophia features spring-fed waters with a striking turquoise color found nowhere else in the region. A fully accessible 12,000-square-foot swim crib with an in-pool ramp and ADA-compliant gangway accommodates swimmers of all levels and abilities, and an additional 16,000-square-foot guarded deep-water swim area allows more experienced swimmers to enjoy the open water.
The lake is framed by tall, majestic cliffs to the north and a broad, flat area to the south, where swimmers and visitors can enjoy the landscape, shaded seating, and places to relax along the water’s edge. A three-quarter-mile “Ridge Trail” loop encircles the lake, leading visitors through shaded forest and open meadow while offering multiple overlooks, quiet moments of respite, and ever-changing views along the way.
Named in honor of Sojourner Truth’s daughter Sophia, the lake is the first completed area of Field Operations’ ongoing design for the 500-acre park, owned and operated by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation in partnership with the Palisades Interstate Park Commission.
Continued construction over the next year will expand the park’s recreational offerings, including miles of additional accessible trails, kayak access on the Hudson River, restored 19th-century structures from the brickmaking industry, and the transformation of a former cement plant into a central Commons for large gatherings, events, markets and day-to-day activities in all seasons. The expanded park is scheduled to open in late 2027.
Lisa Switkin, Partner, Field Operations:
“There’s nothing else quite like this water, and this place, in the region. We wanted to amplify that quality, shaping it so people could experience the power of the water, the quarry, and everything the larger park has to offer. Lake Sophia is just the beginning of what this park can be, and it sets the tone for everything still to come.”
Karen Tamir, Associate Partner, Field Operations:
“Framed by soaring rock cliffs and emergent forest, Lake Sophia is a remarkable place for swimming. Fed by spring water, the lake responds to the seasons, shifting between shades of blue, green, and silvery gray as it reflects the sky. It’s a unique swimming experience deeply connected to nature.”
Colin Curley, Senior Associate, Field Operations:
“Lake Sophia’s allure is not new, as for decades, its secluded turquoise waters have drawn those willing to go off the beaten path. The new swim crib, fabricated off-site and assembled on an 80,000-square-foot platform, was craned into the lake in sections. Each piece was positioned to be embraced by the surrounding landscape, preserving the sense of discovery that has long defined the site. Delivering the facility in just over 13 months was a Herculean effort, and the enthusiastic public reception has been a joy to witness.”
DESIGN TEAM
Field Operations: Project Lead, Landscape Architect, and Architect of the following buildings: Park Office Building, Maintenance & Operations Center, Salt Shed, Pay Booth, Open Air Shed Pavilion
Model of Architecture Serving Society (MASS): Public Engagement, Signage Narrative, and Architect of the following buildings: Swimming Pavilion, Restrooms (Quarry Plaza), Mule Barn Restoration
Labella: Structural Engineer, Environmental Engineering and Permitting, Survey, Geotechnical Engineer, AOR for select Field Operations-designed buildings
Altieri: MEP Engineering, IT
AKRF (formerly Philip Habib and Associates): Civil Engineer
Brandston Partnership: Lighting
eDesign Dynamics: Natural Resources, Wetland Design, Ecology
Portrait: Signage and Wayfinding
Dharam: Cost Estimate
ETM: M&O Advisor
Pine & Swallow: Structural Soils
HKA: Accessibility Code
Hudson Cultural Services: Cultural Resources
FOIT Albert (Currently Azar Design Co.): Preservation Advisor
Zoe Keller: Artist (nature illustrations)
CONSTRUCTION TEAM
Hudson Meridian Construction Group: Construction Manager
