Rochester Outdoors: Highlights for Hiking, Biking, Paddling, Birding, and More!
Are you heading to the Rochester area for a few days and want to get outdoors? Here are some highlights that include a multi-use urban greenway, a historic canal trail, a Haudenosaunee cultural center, a spectacular birding spot on Lake Ontario, and the largest park in the county. Make your own itinerary with these and other Rochester-area locations from our Go Finger Lakes map.
Northwest of Rochester is a sprawling 3,322-acre complex of wetlands, ponds, and marshland referred to as the Braddock Bay Wetland complex. These habitats, situated on the shore of Lake Ontario provide shelter, food, and nesting for nearly every type of bird that uses the Atlantic Flyway. This is one of New York’s best birding spots and visitors can take advantage of several research stations and observation posts located within the complex.
With 5,000 feet of Lake Ontario waterfront and 1,260 total acres, Durand Eastman Park exceeds most other state parks in the Finger Lakes by sheer size alone. With a sandy beach, bike trail, hiking trails, pavilions, lakes (yes, plural), playgrounds, picnic areas, a golf course, and an arboretum, it is easy to see there are ample activities for the whole family to relax, exercise or just play.
Along this section of the Erie Canal, there are miles of unbroken stone dust trail, where intersecting roads pass over the canal and towpath. For paddlers and boats, this is a necessity; for pedestrians, a convenience; and for cyclists, a pure delight. The dedication of space for people, not cars, is what makes this section a true gem.
Spanning 569 acres, Ganondagan State Historic Site, a National Historic Landmark, is the original site of a 17th-century Seneca town and home to the 17,300-square-foot Seneca Art & Culture Center, a Seneca Bark Longhouse, and a series of interpretive trails. Ganondagan is a rare gem in the Finger Lakes, designed to immerse visitors in the rich culture, history, and living traditions of the Haudenosaunee.
Connecting Rochester in the north and Cuba (New York of course) in the south, the Genesee Valley Greenway State Park is a wonderful example of repurposed infrastructure – towpaths and railroad beds – into a new vibrant multiuse trail. Greenways are often thought of as only cyclist and walking paths, but equestrians, snowshoers, skiers, snowmobilers, and fishermen utilize these routes to enjoy their favorite pastimes as well.
Much of what ties the Finger Lakes landscape together dates back to the Ice Age, and there are few better places to see the land-sculpting power of glaciers than Mendon Ponds Park. With over 2,600 acres, it is the largest park in Monroe County. It includes a wide variety of features: roughly 40 miles of hiking trails, athletic fields, picnic tables, cycling along the network of roads, horseback riding, and canoeing/kayaking.
Autumn is here and, as anyone who delights in the season knows, it’s prime time for leaf peeping! If you enjoy a good fall hike, the Finger Lakes region has many locations that feature sun-dappled hills emblazoned with brilliant fall colors. Even better, this selection includes options for longer or shorter hikes and opportunities for viewing waterfalls, lakes, and a mighty river. Put on a sweater and experience fall’s radiant beauty at these locations chosen by the staff at the Finger Lakes Land Trust.
At this 377-acre park in Onondaga County, you can follow the rugged Cliff Trail for stunning views of Glacier Lake, formed during the last ice age. In autumn, the orange, yellow, and red fall foliage provides a stark contrast, and the lake is easily seen and provides a stunning photo op. Other trails wind through deep forest and beside the lake’s outlet/swamp so there are multiple routes through a variety of niches.
Located in the village of Moravia, Fillmore Glen features a deep gorge with stunning waterfalls and over seven miles of trails including the north rim, the south rim, and the real gem — the gorge trail. Autumn is a notably beautiful time to visit, either when the leaves are emblazoned with contrasting colors or just after fallen leaves reveal parts of the gorge previously hidden from view by the dense understory.
Located in the high hills between Honeoye and Hemlock Lakes, Harriet Hollister boasts a roughly 20-mile trail network that weaves through mostly deciduous forest. Visitors can enjoy a deep woodland feel with broad stable trails that include lots of lengthy lines-of-sight. Not to mention the picturesque panoramic view of Honeoye Lake and its steep-sided valley along the Overlook Trail.
The most popular destination in Labrador Hollow is the universally accessible, quarter-mile path to Tinker Falls. Tinker Falls is a stunning example of a “hanging” falls. Its origin dates back to when New York and much of the North American continent was part of an inland sea. Second in popularity, and perhaps also in scenery, is the climb to the Jones Hill hang glider launch. From this vantage point, you can look down upon the hollow and Labrador Pond, at one of the few truly scenic hilltop vistas available along trails in the Finger Lakes region.
Pull on your hiking boots and follow the trails in this forest, along the rim of Lick Brook gorge, where multiple waterfalls splash down on their way to Cayuga Lake. The Sweedler and Thayer Preserves, owned by the Finger Lakes Land Trust, provide excellent examples of the area’s geologic history and ecological systems. Different species of oak and maple can be found, as well as the less common cucumber magnolia and mountain maple. In autumn, Lick Brook becomes part of the colorful tapestry that spreads across the region in red, yellow, and orange.
Letchworth and its rich history encompass seventeen miles of staggeringly sheer gorge, three towering and broad waterfalls, dozens of smaller waterfalls, 66 miles of trails, an abundance of overnight options, and opportunities to explore the park via foot, bike, horse, raft or even hot-air balloon! There is a greater quantity of trails on the western side of the gorge, with most branching off from and paralleling the main Park Road. Most lead to scenic overlooks with panoramic views of the gorge and Genesee River.
At the Finger Lakes Land Trust’s 793-acre Steege Hill Nature Preserve in Big Flats, there are seven miles of trails that weave through a predominantly oak and hickory forest. The largest of the Land Trust’s conservation areas, Steege Hill rests high above the Chemung River and offers ample solitude for hikers who wish to avoid crowds.
Dear Finger Lakers, we invite you to explore these 10 premium outdoor locations that have just been added. On the main map, you will find new additions in the northern part of the region, mostly Monroe and Wayne Counties. If you live in the Rochester area, perhaps some of these are already your favorites. Everyone else, discover the north! Here is the whole batch in alphabetical order.
Your Guide to Getting Outside in an Unpredictable Finger Lakes Winter
Conditions in the Finger Lakes this winter have kept us guessing what outdoor activity is best on any given day. Fortunately, recreational opportunities abound in state parks and forests, nature centers, and rail trails, no matter what the weather brings. If you are not sure whether to use your cross-country skis or your hiking shoes, check out this versatile list of activities and locations chosen by the staff at the Finger Lakes Land Trust. Just be sure to check the forecast first.
Photo: Nigel Kent
Winter Hiking with Waterfalls
If hiking through a snow-covered landscape while breathing in cool, refreshing air and marveling at beautiful waterfalls is your idea of fun, the Finger Lakes region is the place to be. While most gorge trails are closed in winter for safety reasons, there are still many locations to discover. Here is a list of places where hikers can enjoy winter waterfall scenery.
Cross-country skiing in the Finger Lakes is a great way for people of all skill levels to enjoy the beauty of the season. From technical terrain in state forests to groomed trails and more, there’s something for everyone. See our top ski spots!
You can find animal tracks and signs in many places throughout the year; however, there is something magical about looking for them in the snow. Plenty of creatures are actively searching for food in winter and leave behind clues about their behavior. Locations with diverse habitats including fields, forests, creeks, and ponds will produce interesting finds. Here are some locations that fit the bill.
Yes, you heard that right—fat bikes. No need to wait for optimal trail conditions when you can ride through snow, mud, sand, and other loose terrain. Fat bike tires have a large surface area, providing more traction, stability, and weight dispersal, perfect for slippery environments. So, no more dreaming of dry trails all winter long. Saddle up and ride at these popular spots where small groups of ambitious bikers are sure to be found.
Over 950 miles long and covering some of the most scenic land in New York, the Finger Lakes Trail (FLT) system runs from Allegany State Park on the Pennsylvania border to the Catskill Forest Preserve. Here in the Finger Lakes region, there are a few hikes along the FLT that really stand out, including hikes that pass through Finger Lakes Land Trust nature preserves, NY state forests, and county parks. We invite you to explore some of the best.
Accessible Outdoor Experiences in the Finger Lakes
The things that many people love about getting outdoors in the Finger Lakes region—deep gorges, majestic waterfalls, lake views, and rolling forests—are often inaccessible to people with physical or cognitive challenges. Nonetheless, there are opportunities to experience nature for people of all abilities. See what our region has to offer with this list of inclusive outdoor spaces. For more locations, check out the map with the “accessible” filter selected.
A dramatic gorge and waterfall await visitors to Carpenter Falls Unique Area, adjacent to the Finger Lakes Land Trust’s Bahar Nature Preserve. New York State recently completed access improvements at Carpenter Falls, including an elevated boardwalk leading 630 feet from the parking lot to an observation platform, accessible to people with mobility impairments.
Used by people of all abilities, the paved Cayuga Waterfront Trail (CWT) is a safe and accessible eight-mile, multi-use trail connecting Stewart Park to the Allan H. Treman State Marine Park, linking many popular waterfront destinations along the way. The CWT can be accessed at a variety of locations by car including Cass Park, Ithaca Farmer’s Market, and Stewart Park which is home to an accessible playground. Nearly all of the CWT is 10-12 feet wide with few exceptions, and electric-assist wheelchairs are allowed on the trail at a speed below 10 MPH.
A popular destination at Labrador Hollow is a 2,000-foot boardwalk that traverses a diverse wetland complex and is accessible to those with mobility impairments. Labrador Pond also features an accessible fishing pier located off Markham Hollow Road, on the west side of the pond.
Letchworth State Park opened the country’s first nature trail specifically designed to address the sensory needs of people on the autism spectrum in 2021. The Autism Nature Trail is a one-mile hiking loop that includes eight sensory stations, each designed to address a different sensory experience in a safe and supportive environment. Activities along the Autism Nature Trail support and encourage sensory perception and integration, while also providing enjoyable activities for visitors of all abilities and ages. Located near the park’s Humphrey Nature Center with parking and restrooms, the ADA-compliant trail was designed with input from Dr. Temple Grandin, one of the world’s most well-known advocates for the autistic community.
Lime Hollow Nature Center offers a plethora of community programs and events on its 430-acre property in Cortland. A quarter-mile trail—the Trail for All—is wheelchair accessible and continues to various scenic overlooks on nearby Gracie Pond. A trail-ready wheelchair is available at the visitor center along McClean Road, if needed, for venturing further into Lime Hollow.
Wildlife viewing opportunities abound at the Finger Lakes Land Trust’s Lindsay-Parsons Preserve wetland overlook. The wetlands are home to Great Blue Herons, Kingfishers, and the occasional river otter. While there are no accessible trails on the preserve, the overlook has a bench and nearby parking and can be found on Sylvan Lane, opposite the main preserve entrance.
From Dewitt to Chittenango, 11.5 miles within this park encompass a small percentage of the 363-mile-long Empire State Trail. The intersections between roads are well-spaced, and the entirely off-road towpath is mostly stone dust with some paved sections. The terrain is easy-going and there are many quiet local parks connecting to the canal along this stretch with picnic tables and occasional pavilions.
From an elevated platform or within a stone-wall encircled viewing area at Gannett Hill, the Bristol Valley sprawls across the western horizon in a stunning panoramic vista. The view is illustrative of the major influence that glaciers had in sculpting the U-shaped valleys and overly steepened hillsides of the Finger Lakes region. What is even better is that this overlook can also be accessed via a short ADA-accessible path so every member of the family can enjoy the view.
Much of the infrastructure throughout the vast 9,085-acre Sugar Hill State Forest focuses on horseback riding, but note that the multiuse trails are usable by all. Also of note, because of the structure of the trail network, Sugar Hill State Forest has one of the more extensive Motorized Access Programs for People with Disabilities. Unlike some accessible systems that tend to remain close to civilization’s edge, the accessible sections here allow for very far-removed and wild experiences.
Top Finger Lakes Waterfalls – Secret Spots and Famous Falls
Waterfalling in the region’s iconic gorges is a quintessential Finger Lakes experience, right up there with wine tasting and lazy summers on the water (see the best paddling spots!). Visitors flock to famous spots like Taughannock Falls, with a vertical drop that beats Niagara Falls, and the breathtaking cascades at Watkins Glen State Park. Our well-traveled staff here at the Finger Lakes Land Trust helped us list our favorite waterfalls including famous spots and lesser-known gems. Put these Finger Lakes waterfalls on your summer to-do list:
During the last ice age, glaciers thousands of feet thick blanketed much of northern North America, sculpting the beautiful topography of the Finger Lakes region. The effects of these glaciers can be seen in the multiple waterfalls that splash down along Lick Brook on its journey to Cayuga Lake, including one that is nearly 140 feet tall. The Finger Lakes Land Trust’s Lick Brook Gorge preserve hosts a popular stretch of the Finger Lakes Trail that runs along the gorge. Ambitious hikers can continue along the trail to Buttermilk Falls State Park to the east and Robert H. Treman State Park to the west.
The universally accessible, quarter-mile path to Tinker Falls is arguably the most popular destination in Labrador Hollow. Tinker Falls is a stunning example of a “hanging” falls. Over time, the crumbly shale beneath the crest of the waterfall and behind it washes away leaving an undercut capstone, a deep crevice behind, and an impressive waterfall. The cavern behind Tinker Falls is 100 feet wide, 30 feet deep and 30 feet high. Walking behind it is possible if you are brave and agile enough to climb the steep, stone staircase set into the crumbly shale.
Located on the southern edge of Ithaca, Buttermilk Falls is a wildly popular spot for tourists and local residents, especially during the height of summer. Upon entering the park, newcomers quickly see why. Across a verdant lawn is a foaming and frothy waterfall with a deep pool and dammed swimming area below. The park’s namesake falls, Buttermilk Falls, tumbles down striated gorge rock in two distinct drops. The first, nearly 90 feet in height, lies beside the trail that ascends quickly away from the swimming area. The second is visible just above the first from a handsomely built stone-lookout.
Ithaca is most certainly a city of gorges, but the gorge at Taughannock Falls, in nearby Trumansburg, is the biggest of them all. It is perhaps more accurately described as a canyon. The waterfall at the end of the lower portion of the gorge is the tallest waterfall in New York State. In fact, it is the tallest, single-drop waterfall east of the Rockies. For comparison, Taughannock Falls is 215 feet high while Niagara Falls is 167 feet high. The mile-long trail within the canyon is nearly level and easily accessed, making it an excellent trip for all members of the family, from toddlers to grandparents and everyone in between.
Within the folds of farmland next to Skaneateles Lake, lies a beautiful forest surrounding Bear Swamp Creek. From the top of the hill, hikers are rewarded with a startling view of Carpenter Falls. Here the water drops nearly 90 feet into a deep ravine. Explore the trail leading further down the Bear Creek Swamp gorge to see several other waterfalls cascading all the way to the lake. In 2008, the Finger Lakes Land Trust gave 36 acres to New York State, creating the Carpenter Falls Unique Area. The remaining conserved acres downstream are open to the public as the Land Trust’s Bahar Nature Preserve.
While other gorge parks hit you with some of their most dramatic views right from the start, at Robert H. Treman, also known as Enfield Glen, you have to work just a little bit harder to get to the wow factor. Mind you it is not much work, as the initial part of the gorge trail is relatively flat and meandering for a mile and three quarters. But as you begin to hear thundering falls and see the route out of the gorge, it’s easy to see why “wow” might not be sufficient to describe the scene. The 115-foot Lucifer Falls is clearly central, and the handsome stonework winding up along the sheer cliff is equally remarkable.
There is no place more iconic of the Finger Lakes waterfall and gorge experience than Watkins Glen State Park. Stunning waterfalls, dramatic flumes, and picturesque potholes combine to make a gorgeous waterscape. The scene is further enhanced by handsome stone staircases, arched bridges, and winding tunnels that weave up and through the scenic gorge. The trail through the gorge is an awe-inspiring confluence of water’s persistent and powerful stone sculpting and a thoughtful merger of human craftsmanship. Simply put, the gorge is a can’t-miss trail for waterfall lovers and anyone seeking a true Finger Lakes experience.
Formed by gushing meltwaters at the end of the last ice age, Grimes Glen is typical of many Finger Lakes gorges that still carry runoff from uplands down into the ice-carved valleys below. Two stunning 60-foot falls are accessible today by wandering upstream about a ½ mile from the parking area. Waterfall sightseers should expect to get their feet wet, since the gorge narrows upstream to a point where there is no bank to speak of, forcing hikers into the rocky streambed. For much of the summer and fall, except after torrential rains, the creekbed is easily navigable, but during spring runoff the flow comes on strong and turbulent. The Finger Lakes Land Trust holds an easement on the property, and so has a responsibility to look out for the future of this remarkable gorge.
The first falls, sometimes called Cowsheds Falls, are universally accessible while the other parts of the gorge are only reached after a brief but steep climb. After the initial climb, the trail through the gorge is relatively flat and easily negotiated. Further along the gorge are several stunning smaller cascades and waterfalls that culminate with the tallest falls, Dalibarda Falls, followed shortly after by Upper and Lower Pinnacle Falls. These last pair of waterfalls lies in a visually striking square-cut section of the gorge near the terminus of the gorge trail. Late spring, early summer, and/or after periods of heavy rain are the best time to see the waterfalls in their most torrential states. However, autumn is also a notably beautiful time to visit, either when the leaves are emblazoned with contrasting colors or just after fallen leaves reveal parts of the gorge previously hidden from view by the dense understory.
The impressive gorge at Letchworth State Park is so broad and deep that it’s heralded by many as the “Grand Canyon of the East.” The mighty Genesee River roars through the gorge descending in three major waterfalls tucked between steep cliffs. With over 60 miles of hiking trails and extraordinary waterfall viewing, this park is a must-see. The adventurous can take it all in from above; hot air balloons frequently fly over the gorge in the summer.
Easygoing Autumn Hikes for Families and Seniors in the Finger Lakes Region
The Finger Lakes region is known for its rugged gorges, forested hillsides, and eleven awe-inspiring lakes. However, not all outdoor adventures require you to exceed your comfort level or ability. For families, seniors, or anyone looking for a leisurely stroll, there are many beautiful places to explore the natural and cultural history of our region.
The Catharine Valley Trail is contiguous from downtown Watkins Glen to the hamlet of Pine Valley. It’s a great natural corridor that utilizes compact stone dust paths that are an absolute pleasure to walk or bike. Birdwatching opportunities await at the nearby Queen Catharine Marsh, accessible from the trail. When complete, the route will be roughly 12 miles long and will connect the communities of Watkins Glen, Montour Falls, Millport, Pine Valley and Horseheads.
This trail follows an old railroad bed beside the Cayuga-Seneca Canal. The western end can be accessed by parking at Seneca Lake State Park or at the Bishop Nature Preserve, owned by the Finger Lakes Land Trust. The preserve has a large gravel parking area off West River Road and a newly constructed path that connects directly to the trail. Once on the canal trail, you can walk or bike along a broad, level, stone dust trail. Free of obstructions, the path allows you to take in the sights of the pastoral landscape.
There is something for everyone at the Cornell Botanic Gardens, formerly known as the Cornell Plantations. There are hiking trails, nature walks, gardens, ponds, woodlands, meadows, glens, and more. The more cultivated and landscaped gardens and arboretum are ideal for young children, elderly parents, or simply for anyone wishing for a leisurely stroll.
Experience firsthand the customs and beliefs of the Seneca at Ganondagan State Historic Site. Open year-round, the 7.6-mile trail system features a series of interconnected paths that can be adjusted for longer or shorter hikes. The Trail of Peace is a 0.8-mile mowed loop trail which passes the Bark Longhouse and details Seneca oral tradition, how the Haudenosaunee became a confederacy, and the story of the original town of Ganondagan. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of birds that inhabit the meadows here along this mostly level path.
The most popular destination in Labrador Hollow is the universally accessible, quarter-mile path to Tinker Falls. Tinker Falls is a stunning example of a “hanging” falls. Its origin dates back to when New York and much of the North American continent was part of an inland sea. Additionally, the Labrador Hollow accessible boardwalk is nearly 2,000 feet in length and traverses a diverse wetland complex that provides a glimpse of New York’s flora and fauna.
The Tanglewood Nature Center features a variety of wildlife exhibits and a six-mile trail system. Multiple loops of varying difficulty and length, allow for leisurely strolls in the meadows or more vigorous excursions through the woodland. The trails are peppered with placards that have quotes from Mark Twain whose wit and thoughts help frame our views of nature in new and amusing ways.
This list was compiled as a general guide for families and seniors wishing to get outdoors. Visitors should check the web site for each trail, nature center, etc., for specific details on closings and other restrictions due to Covid-19.
Gorges—those narrow, sinuous openings in the landscape that often reveal eons of geological activity. They also make for fascinating and vigorous hikes! There is much to appreciate on a trek through one of our region’s iconic gorges: dazzling waterfalls, beautiful stonework, flowing streams, and a variety of plants and wildlife. Many gorge hikes and their associated rim trail routes can be adjusted for longer or shorter treks, depending on preference. If you’re looking for a quintessential Finger Lakes adventure, check out one of these gorge hikes chosen by the staff at the Finger Lakes Land Trust.
A marvelous way to experience the gorge at Treman State Park is to walk up the Gorge Trail and then climb down the long stone staircase along the Rim Trail. The 115-foot Lucifer Falls is clearly central, and the handsome stonework winding up along the sheer cliff is equally remarkable. Like many state parks, the beautiful work done by the Civilian Conservation Corps can be admired for its appearance but also in the feat of constructing the trail which literally clings to the cliff. A beautiful stretch of the Finger Lakes Trail (FLT) runs through the park, and hikers can follow the FLT beyond Treman to Lick Brook Gorge and then all the way to Buttermilk Falls State Park.
There is no place more iconic of the Finger Lakes waterfall and gorge experience than Watkins Glen State Park. Stunning waterfalls, dramatic flumes, and picturesque potholes combine to make a gorgeous waterscape. The scene is further enhanced by handsome stone staircases, arched bridges, and winding tunnels that weave up and through the scenic gorge. The trail through the gorge is an awe-inspiring confluence of water’s persistent and powerful stone sculpting and a thoughtful merger of human craftsmanship.
A lot of places claim to be the Grand Canyon of the East, and while none truly compare in terms of scale, Letchworth State Park’s grandeur and unique opportunities make it a can’t-miss natural wonder. The park and its rich history encompass seventeen miles of staggeringly sheer gorge, three towering and broad waterfalls, dozens of smaller waterfalls, and 66 miles of trails. There is a greater quantity of trails on the western side of the gorge, leading to scenic overlooks with panoramic views. Hikers have a lot of options at Letchworth, and can even plan overnight or multi-night backpacking trips.
Opportunities abound for all types of outdoor enthusiasts at the High Tor Wildlife Management Area, including creek walking and gorge exploration in Conklin Gully-Parish Glen and Clark Gully. Conklin Gully is a recent addition to the WMA, with trails that follow the rim and have several stunning scenes of the gorge and Angel Falls. The more adventurous and sure-of-foot can creek-walk the gorge. Expect to get your feet wet along this unmarked scramble and be cautious of slippery and high water conditions.
The gorge at Taughannock Falls is perhaps more accurately described as a canyon and its namesake waterfall is one of the tallest in New York State. But the falls are not the only impressive aspect of the park. The Rim Trail that encircles the lower and upper gorges provides stunning views down into the canyon. And many will find the history of how the long, broad gorge was formed to be equally impressive while walking through the canyon and viewing the 400-foot-high gorge walls.
In the quiet village of Moravia is another beautiful gorge park — Fillmore Glen. After an initial climb, the Gorge Trail here is relatively flat and easily negotiated. Further along are several stunning smaller cascades and waterfalls that culminate with the tallest falls, Dalibarda Falls, followed shortly after by Upper and Lower Pinnacle Falls. Autumn is a notably beautiful time to visit, either when the leaves are emblazoned with contrasting colors or just after fallen leaves reveal parts of the gorge previously hidden from view by the dense understory.
Connective corridors are typically parks or natural areas that connect two distinct areas within a community—for example, separate neighborhoods or villages. Within the heart of Ithaca, there is no better example than Cascadilla Gorge. It is a stunningly beautiful connective corridor that runs from downtown to the Cornell campus. The gorge is a short three-quarters of a mile in length, but it is long on amazing waterscapes.
Located just on the southern edge of Ithaca, Buttermilk Falls is a wildly popular spot for tourists and local residents, especially during the height of summer. Open from early May to early November, the Gorge Trail delights hikers with a picturesque interweaving of landscape and waterscape. In addition to stunning waterfalls, there are innumerable small flumes, tumbles, and cascades that contribute to the awesome scene.
Formed by gushing meltwaters at the end of the last ice age, Grimes Glen is typical of many Finger Lakes gorges that still carry runoff from uplands down into the ice-carved valleys below. Two stunning 60-foot falls are accessible today by wandering upstream ½ mile or slightly more from the parking area. Waterfall sightseers should expect to get their feet wet since the gorge narrows upstream to a point where there is no streambank.
Sweedler and Thayer Preserves, owned by the Finger Lakes Land Trust, along with the adjacent 27-acre Lick Brook Natural Area owned by Cornell University, provide excellent examples of the area’s geologic history and ecological systems. The perpetual protection of this area allows ample opportunity for hiking, including access to Buttermilk Falls State Park via a spur of the Finger Lakes Trail, and peaceful enjoyment of our natural world, while protecting the water quality of Cayuga Lake.
Many of your favorite trails and outdoor locations may be closed or have limited access during the fall hunting season. For anyone looking for peace of mind and open space without trail closures, explore this list of places where hunting is not allowed. We also advise you to check with each location before visiting as hunting policies can change.
Rolling wooded hills, well-groomed trails, and varied niches make this small gem in Marcellus a must-visit for all members of the family. Short trails through an arboretum as well as wildflower and herb gardens near the John A. Weeks Interpretive Center are perfect for those who just want a brief, easy stroll. The longer Valley, Boundary, and Field to Forest trails offer extended trips to expand the experience and are thoroughly enjoyable by hikers of all levels.
Whether you walk a mile or run the full, 16-mile round trip, the Cayuga Waterfront Trail (CWT) is a great way to experience all that Ithaca’s Cayuga Lake waterfront has to offer. Benches, scenic overlooks, interpretive signs, and trailheads with decorative paving and kiosks help make the CWT a special place to relax or exercise, all while enjoying Ithaca’s beautiful waterways.
The Cornell Lab of Ornithology, more commonly known as Sapsucker Woods, is a birding haven and great resource for long-time birders and those with an aspiring interest. Four miles of trails wander through the 230-acre sanctuary, with multiple interconnected loops that can be intermixed for longer trips. The mostly level trails weave through deep woods, atop boardwalks in swamps, and beside ponds bursting with wildlife of all kinds.
Twelve miles of trails, open dawn to dusk year-round, weave through meadow, forest, and scrub land, often neighboring or encircling the numerous ponds and varied wetlands found throughout the 430-acre property in Cortland. The deep forest sections found along the Mill Pond Trail feature large-diameter trees that are reminiscent of the old-growth forest found at Green Lakes State Park.
An easy meandering trail accessed from the south parking area of this Finger Lakes Land Trust preserve in Dryden leads you through a meadow that encircles a beautiful evergreen plantation. Follow the spur trail and you will find yourself in a mature forest that leads to the hemlock-studded gorge and waterfalls along Six Mile Creek. Please note that while hunting is prohibited in the Roy H. Park Preserve, it is allowed in the adjacent Hammond Hill State Forest which can be accessed from the preserve’s northern entrance.
The 793-acre Steege Hill Nature Preserve in Big Flats has seven miles of hiking trails and is the Finger Lakes Land Trust’s largest conservation area. Located on a hilltop high above the Chemung River, hikers can choose from a series of connected loop trails for longer or shorter hikes.
The 1,150-acre Sterling Nature Center is a true gem for hikers, birders, and outdoor enthusiasts. Open dawn to dusk every day, the nature center has a bit of something for all: 8.5 miles of hiking trails, access to paddle on Lake Ontario and Sterling Creek, bluffs, ocean-like views, a beaver pond, vernal pools, roughly 2 miles of pebble beaches, and birding opportunities that will thrill novices and veterans alike.
With over 2,600 acres, Mendon Ponds is the largest park in Monroe County and includes a wide variety of options for outdoor activities including roughly 40 miles of hiking trails, cycling along the network of roads, and canoeing/kayaking. In addition, the park is also home to stunning examples of glacial landforms, a nature center and bird of prey facility, and a butterfly garden.
The Tanglewood Nature Center in Elmira is home to a six-mile trail system. Multiple loops of varying difficulty and length, allow for leisurely strolls in the meadows or more vigorous excursions through the woodland. The trails are peppered with placards that have quotes from Mark Twain whose wit and thoughts help frame our views of nature in new and amusing ways.
*Please be advised that hunting may be occurring on adjacent properties. We encourage every outdoor enthusiast to wear blaze orange, pink, or another bright color, especially during fall and winter. Doing so will allow you to be seen more easily and from greater distances. Learn more about hiker safety during hunting season.
If you’ve ever visited one of the region’s iconic state parks in the summer, you’ve surely witnessed their mass appeal. Where waterfalls, lake views, and plenty of amenities abound, so do the crowds! State forests, on the other hand, offer thousands of acres of undeveloped public land for outdoor activities such as hiking, paddling, mountain biking, camping, wildlife observation, and much more. Minus modern conveniences, state forest lands often feature established trail systems, popular among organized recreation groups. If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure with plenty of open space, check out one of these Finger Lakes state forests, chosen by the staff at the Finger Lakes Land Trust.
There are many beautiful places to get outdoors in the Finger Lakes, but few allow you to explore the shores of an actual Finger Lake. Not so for the trails in Hemlock-Canadice State Forest. Paddlers are also welcome and can enjoy these tranquil waters, free of the common boat traffic found on all of the other Finger Lakes. Lacking the typical houses and cottages as well as large noisy boats, exploring Hemlock-Canadice State Forest is like stepping back in time to behold the Finger Lakes in their natural state. The unique situation is thanks to the fact that Hemlock and Canadice lakes are the source of Rochester’s drinking water supply.
*Note – camping is not allowed at Hemlock-Canadice State Forest
Shindagin Hollow State Forest is over 5,266 acres and features more than 20 miles of trails — roughly fifteen miles of mountain biking trails and just under six miles of hiking trails. The mountain bike trail system is located almost entirely in the section of the forest to the west of Shindagin Hollow Road. The hiking trail traverses laterally across the forest and is almost exclusively along a 5.7-mile-long section of the Finger Lakes Trail.
In some ways, a trip to Sugar Hill State Forest is a bit like a trip to the Old West. No, there are no deserts or arid plains or shootouts, but there are horses and horse camps and horse stables and horse hitching posts and horse… well, you get the point. Much of the infrastructure throughout the vast 9,085-acre state forest focuses around making equestrians’ lives easier, but also note that the multiuse trails are usable by all.
The network of trails here was built by the Triple Cities Ski Club through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Adopt-A-Natural Resource program, and is another great example of how public and private partnerships can make natural resources accessible. The sixteen miles of deep, woodland trails follow many interconnected loops that allow for longer or shorter treks. Despite the lack of signage, the actual trails themselves are in great shape and offer a good deal of solitude.
This 4,422-acre forest is a packed collection of named trails, including short, one-mile family-friendly loops; short half-day loops; and, figure-eights or more convoluted patterns to hike all day or overnight. But hiking is not the only activity here. There are also three annual competitive running events, and designated camping areas along the Finger Lakes Trail for extended camping stays.
The sprawling 3,316-acre forest features over 15 miles of multiuse trails and miles of quiet, unpaved roads. For the most part, the trails weave around and up-and-over two ridges that flank Bear Swamp Creek. As such there are some climbs and descents when moving east-to-west, but the terrain is mostly flat while moving north-south. This habitat is vital for at-risk species, such as the Cerulean Warbler, a rare deep forest songbird.
The 3,446-acre Birdseye Hollow State Forest has two day-use areas, two quiet water paddling opportunities (Sanford Lake and Birdseye Hollow Pond), seven designated primitive lakeside campsites, and nearly 11 miles along the Finger Lakes Trail. Deep woodlands and babbling brooks occupy the majority of the trail experience here, but there is also the short blue-blazed lakeside trail. The blue trail traverses the transitional space between forest and wetland and offers ample wildlife viewing along the way.
