When it time to break away take on the world but gently.
Give hiking a try there is a peacfulness to hiking up in the mountains.
Looking up seeing that height facing the challange of the climb.
With the high Gas Prices today its hard to travel far from home.
Let me toss a few places closer to upstate New York for you .
Please drop a line let me know that you use this sight Thanks Barb.
The final reward of knowing that you made the climb up your a champion hiker.
Here is a few of my personal favorites that I havent mentioned before.
Click the links below to follow for more information.
Battle Hill State Forest
Rte.17
Redfield, NY
(607)753-3095
5 and 1/2 miles of trails...
Battle Island State Park
NYS Rte. 48
Granby, NY
(315)593-3408
4 and 3/4 miles of marked trails around perimeter of golf course.
Chateaugay State Forest
Rte. 2
Orwell, NY
(607)753-3095
7 miles of marked, 8 miles of unmarked trails
Fallbrook Recreation Center
Thompson Rd
Oswego, NY
(315)341-2106
Trails connect to Rice Creek trails, for a combined total of 20 miles of trails.
Hastings Town Park
Wilson Rd.
Hastings, NY
(315)668-2456 or (315)668-6191
100 acres of park land, 3 miles of marked trails.
Klondike State Forest
Tanner and Starks Rds.
(Off NY Rt 69)
Amboy, NY
(607)753-3095
5 miles of ungroomed trails
Littlejohn Wildlife Management Area
Littlejohn Drive
(Off Rte. 17)
Redfield and Boylston, NY
(607)753-3095
18.8 miles of trails.
Oswego County Nature Park
at Camp Zerbe
State Route 104
Williamstown, NY
(315) 349-8322 or (800)596-3200
hundreds of acres of wilderness, including beautiful and unique glacier-made "kettlehole" lakes ...
Oswego County Recreational Trail aka old railroad bed
At Maple Ave. near Fulton
to NYS Rte. 49 in Cleveland, NY
(315)349-8322
26-mile groomed trail.
Rice Creek Field Station
Thompson Road
Oswego, NY
(315)342-0961
instructional and research unit of SUNY College ... consists of the 26-acre Rice Pond surrounded by 400 acres of land.
Salmon River State Forest
Rtes. 2 and 17
Redfield, NY
(607)753-3095
3 miles of trails
Sandy Creek Community Park
U.S. Rte. 11
Sandy Creek, NY
(315)387-3445
1 and 1/2 miles of marked trails, other unmarked trails.
Selkirk Shores State Park
NY Rte. 3
Pulaski, NY
(315)298-5737
4 miles of trails, 2 miles of marked trails.
Sunset Bay Park
E. Lake Road
Scriba, NY
(315)343-1853
1 mile of marked trails
Three Mile Bay Wildlife Management Area
Off Toad Harbor Road
West Monroe, NY
(607)753-3095
10 miles of trails.
Trout Brook State Forest
Off Co. Rte. 22
Bremm Road
Sandy Creek
& Boylston, NY
(607)753-3095
3 miles of trails.
Vanderkamp
Off NYS 49
Martin Rd
Constantia, NY
(315)675-3651
18 miles of trails, rentals available. Trail fee.
Hiking and Biking Trails
The Canal Way Trail System offers miles of scenic trails and numerous parks for hiking, biking and cross-country skiing.
Enjoy the quite recreation of wildlife viewing along miles of green and tranquil trails that line New York's canals.
The trail system currently includes more than 150 miles of exiting trails comprised of four major trail segments:
The Erie Canal Heritage Trail on the western end of the state, Old Erie Canal State Park in the center of the state,
Mohawk-Hudson Bikeway and Glens Falls Feeder Canal Trail on the eastern side.
Erie Canal Heritage Trail
Approximately 70 miles long between Lockport and Palmyra, the trail passes villages whose development centered around the canal.
There are numerous access points where roads intersect the trail.
Trail Surface:
Lockport to Medina - stone dust
Medina to Rochester - gravel
Rochester to Pittsford - asphalt
Pittsford to Palmyra - stone dust
Trail Use:
Walking, hiking, bicycling, roller blading and cross country skiing.
Old Erie Canal Trail
Old Erie Canal Park is a 36 mile long linear park between Dewitt (east of Syracuse) and Rome is designated a National Recreation Trail.
The park trail is off road except for a 2.2 mile segment between Durhamville and Route 31 and a 1 mile segment along Lock Road.
Rest rooms and parking are available at Poolsbrook and Cedar Bay picnic areas.
Trail Surface:
stone dust
Trail Use:
Walking, hiking, bicycling, cross country skiing, horseback riding and snowmobiling.
Mohawk-Hudson Bikeway
The bikeway stretches approximately 40 miles along the Mohawk River between Fort Hunter and Cohoes
at the confluence of the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers. The Mohawk-Hudson Bikeway is off road except for 4 miles between
Amsterdam and Rotterdam Junction (Route 5S can be used to connect the trail) and 1 mile in the City of Schenectady.
Trail Surface:
asphalt
Trail Use:
Walking, hiking, bicycling, cross country skiing, horseback riding and snowmobiling.
Glens Falls Feeder Canal Trail
The 9 mile trail follows one of the last surviving sections of the original 1820's canal system.
The trail is off road except for a short segment between Glen and Shermantown Road in the City of Glens Falls.
Oakwood and Warren Street can be used to connect the trail.
Trail Surface:
stone dust
Trail Use:
Walking, hiking, bicycling, cross country skiing.
Bike Routes 5 and 9
Bike Routes 5 and 9 are on-road bike routes that travel east and west across the state from the Massachusetts border to Niagara Falls
and north and south from New York City to the Canadian Border.
These routes parallel the Erie and Champlain canals, providing links to off-road trail segments.
Developed by New York State Department of Transportation for experienced bicyclists skilled in sharing the road with motorized traffic.
Fingerlakes Region Trails
Biking - Stid Hill, Bristol, NY
As the name implies, Stid Hill sits on the side of a hill. For those adventurous mountain bikers this is a must-do!
Hike up in the adriondacks short hikes
Google these hikes for directions
Auger Falls
.6 miles RT, easy This short walk leads to overlooks of a long series of cascades in a deep gorge lined with hemlocks.
Please use caution, the banks are steep and slippery.
Baldface Mountain
(2 mile RT paddle across Indian Lake and 2.2 mile RT hike, easy) Norman's Cove, which has a great picnic area and a sheltered bay,
is where you leave your boat and start your hike. It is an easy ascent to spectacular views from open ledges on the summit.
Beaver Lake
4.6 miles RT, easy) This is a pleasant walk or bike ride on a dirt road to a clearing on the lakeshore which was once the site of a private estate built
Broomstick Lake
1.4 miles, RT, easy) Broomstick Lake is a little lake that contains colorful rose quartz.
Most of the shore line is swampy, but it is an attractive picnic destination.
Broomstick Lake was also used in the 1936 filming of the original "The Last of the Mohicans".
Buttermilk Falls
A short, well-used trail leads to the large flat rocks — a great spot for picnics — at the edge of the waterfall and river.
Cascade and Stevens Ponds
(8.4 miles RT, easy) You'll cross Rock Pond outlet on a 200-foot boardwalk and follow the route of a historic road on your way to these two beautiful ponds.
Cedar Lakes
(8.4 miles RT, easy) This trail follows the route of an old road that parallels the Miami River on its way into the beautiful Cedar Lakes area.
Be sure to visit the two lean-tos; both are beautifully situated and have great views.
For long distance hikers, the Northville-Lake Placid heads north and south from here.
Chase Lake
(5 miles RT, easy) This is a popular lake with a lean-to.
This lake is a popular amount ATV riders, and as a result may be wet and muddy.
Chimney Mountain
(2.8 miles RT, easy, $1 parking fee) This is a very interesting hike to an unusual geological chimney formation and broad views
over the wilderness area. Use caution around the maze of caves and crevices near the summit. Expert spelunkers will find this area a delight to explore.
Clockmill Pond
(3 miles RT, easy) This is a mostly level walk on an old woods road, marked as a snowmobile trail,
to a clearing where you leave the marked trail and follow an unmarked path to the lake.
Echo Cliff-Panther Mountain
(1.5 miles RT, easy) The trail to this popular destination is well worn and occasionally steep.
An open grassy area and ledges provide spectacular views across Piseco Lake to Spy Lake and the Silver Lake Wilderness.
Fawn Lake
(3 miles RT, easy) This walk leads to a pristine lake surrounded by state land.
The trail leading to the north shore of the lake is a snowmobile trail that leads to Piseco.
Good Luck Lake - Good Luck Cliffs
(5.8 miles RT, easy) First, there is a level walk on a marked trail to a secluded sandy beach on Good Luck Lake,
and then you can backtrack to an unmarked trail that leads up a short steep climb to an open ledge with fantastic views.
Great Camp Sagamore Lake Trail
(3.7 mile loop, easy) This is a pleasant walk on an old carriage road which circles the lake and provides views across the lake
to the Great Camp Sagamore, once the summer home of the Vanderbilts.
There are several other trails in the vicinity and an interesting tour of the extraordinary Great Camp complex itself
(admission fee). An extensive schedule of educational programs is available. 315-354-5311.
Jockeybush Lake
(2 miles RT, easy) This is a pleasant walk along the outlet stream of a natural deep-water lake.
Boulders line the shore and provide nice picnic spots.
Nine Corner Lake
(1.8 miles RT, easy) An old road leads to this popular lake that has beautiful blue-green water and a picturesque shoreline.
Walk the fishermen's paths for access to less populated and used shorelines.
Due to the bad basics of some hikers, campers, and snowmobiles this small wonder is fading fast.
Panther Mountain - Echo Cliff
(1.5 miles RT, easy) The trail to this popular destination is well worn and occasionally steep.
An open grassy area and ledges provide spectacular views across Piseco Lake to Spy Lake and the Silver Lake Wildernes
Potholers
This especially interesting section of East Canada Creek has a series of waterfalls, chutes and potholes
The area is a beautiful spot for a picnic and is easily accessed via a short walk upstream.
Willie Wildlife Marsh
(1.5 mile loop, easy) This interesting nature trail system explores a wetland habitat. There is a
viewing platform, ten interpretive stops and three boardwalks that traverse the marsh and open water.
The trail guide and map is available at the trailhead.
Woods Lake
(0.3 miles, easy) Woods Lake is a very pretty small lake that is close to the road.
Therefore, it is more popular among campers and fishermen.
William C. Whitney Area
(13.5 mile trail system, easy) Burn Road, formerly used for logging, is the main access trail to viewpoints and campsites
along the north shore of Little Tupper Lake. Side trails lead to several interior ponds.
Tenant Creek Falls
(4 miles RT, easy) Three beautiful waterfalls grace Tenant Creek. The first one, only .5 miles upstream, is a good destination for children.
An unmarked path parallels the south side of the stream to an ideal picnic spot beside a deep pool at the base of the 50-foot waterfall.
Continue to follow the stream to reach the equally impressive set of falls further up.
Marion River Railroad
(12 miles RT paddle from Blue Mtn. Lake, moderate, and a 1 mile RT walk, easy)
After paddling across Blue Mtn. Lake, under W. W. Durant's classic bridge (circa 1891), and down narrow Eagle and Utowana lakes,
you reach the remains of the steamboat landing at the eastern end of the Marion River Railroad.
Walk the right-of-way (used today as a canoe portage trail) of what was the world's shortest railroad.
The half-mile railroad ran between the two steamboat landings thus connecting Raquette and Blue Mtn. lakes.
This ingenious route was used by thousands to reach resorts on Blue Mountain Lake in the 1880s.
The locomotive and passenger coach are on display at the Adirondack Museum.
Mitchell Ponds
(3.8 miles RT, easy) This is a pleasant walk or bike ride over mostly level terrain on an old woods road.
The two ponds are partially separated by a peninsula and lined with picturesque cliffs along the north side.
A one-mile long spur trail along the north shore ends near the outlet.
Murphy, Middle and Bennett Lakes
(8.3 miles, moderately easy, two cars needed) This route follows an old road and trail once used by early settlers who farmed and mined in this area.
You'll pass a series of very attractive lakes, an old ferrous oxide pigment mine — the red paint was processed in nearby Northville
and used on many area buildings — and the stone walls, foundations and apple trees of the former homesteads.
Moderate Adriondack Mountain Hikes
Big Alderbed Lake
(6.2 miles RT, moderate do to distance) Big Alderbed Lake was once a small lake that increased in size during the 1900's.
The dam was built to accommodate the booming logging industry.
Currently most of the dam has not eroded and flooded away. The trail is mostly flat but does contain a few obstacles.
Castle Rock
(2 mile RT, moderate) This sometimes steep trail leads to a rocky promontory that juts 200 feet above the surrounding forest
and provides magnificent views of Blue Mountain Lake and its many islands. Eight islands including two of the largest islands were recently
opened to public access; for a different perspective, paddle out and explore the islands.
Chimney Mountain
(2.8 miles RT, moderate, $1 parking fee) This is a very interesting hike to an unusual geological chimney formation and broad views
over the wilderness area. Use caution around the maze of caves and crevices near the summit.
Expert spelunkers will find this area a delight to explore.
Dry and Dexter Lakes
(5.8 miles, RT, easy to moderate) This is an attractive walk on and old road through open forests.
The terrain is relatively flat, but does contain some moderate ups and downs.
Dry and Dexter Lakes are small and relatively isolated.
Goldmine Stream Falls
(2.4 miles, RT, moderate) This is a small series of waterfalls with rock outcroppings.
At the falls the red and gold bedrock is what named the goldmine stream. Map & Compass trail.
Irving Pond and Bellows Lake to Peters Corners
(19 miles RT if Holmes Lake is explored) This complex series of trails.
Each lake has its own charm.
Hikers should allow time to explore the ruins of the old mill by Holmes Lake.
Kane Mountain
(1.4 miles RT, moderate) This hike follows an old jeep road to the summit where views can be attained from the restored fire tower.
A fire observer’s cabin is also located on the summit.
Lake Lila-Frederica Mountain
(8.8 miles RT, easy to moderate) Most of this walk is on a level dirt road which leads to a large grassy clearing on the lakeshore
where the Nehasane Lodge Great Camp once stood.
A moderate climb leads up to a ledge overlooking beautiful Lake Lila.
Little Cathead (bushwhack)
(2.4 miles RT, moderate) Little Cathead is unlike most in the southern area in that it contains a wooded summit.
It however does still contain plentiful look-outs.
This small mountain does not contain a marked trail. Exploring hikers should travel with compass and map.
Sargent Ponds Loop
(6.5 miles, easy) This walk passes a stand of old growth pines, blowdown from the July 1995
storm and four ponds which are historic brook trout waters.
Sawyer Mountain
(2.2 miles RT, easy) This is one of the easiest summit climbs in the Adirondacks.
There are partial views from ledges near the summit.
Stewart and Indian Lakes
(4.6 miles, RT, moderate) This hike is an an uphill walk to two interesting and charming destination
Advanced Difficult Hikes
Black Cat Lake (bushwhack)
(6.0 miles, RT, difficult) This small body of water is slowly degenerating into a swamp.
This trip is challenging and the hiker must pay close attention to landmarks and the map and compass.
Cathead Mountain
SORRY THIS TRAIL NOW CLOSED BECAUSE OF A LAND DISPUTE.
(3.2 miles RT, difficult) This trail is short and easy to follow but the climb is steep.
The open summit has views in three directions and a fire tower.
Glasgow Mills and Hillabrandt Lake and Vlei
(6.6 miles, RT) A shallow lovely lake dammed by beaver.
This hike also takes you past the old mill historic site.
Owls Head Mountain
(6.2 miles RT, moderate) The first half of this hike is mostly level but then it is a steep scramble to the top where there are excellent views.
Blowdown damage is visible from both the trail and summit.
Blowdown damage is visible from both the trail and summit.
Puffer Pond
(3.8 mile RT, moderate, $1 parking fee) The trail to beautiful Puffer Pond skirts a chain of beaver dams, marshes, and open flows along
Carroll Brook. Trails lead in both directions on the pond's northern shore where there are two lean-tos.
Pillsbury Mountain
(3.2 miles, moderately difficult) After some steep climbing, you will reach the abandoned fire tower and views from the summit
to the east and south. The access road to the trailhead is rough and may only be passable by four-wheel drive vehicles.
Rocky Mountain
(1 mile RT, moderate) This is a short, steep climb on a popular trail to an open view of the Fulton Chain of Lakes.
Snowy Mountain
(7.8 miles RT, difficult) This is the tallest mountain in the southern Adirondacks and the trail to its top, especially the final climb,
is very steep and demanding. You'll enjoy outstanding views of Indian Lake, the distant High Peaks and unbroken wilderness from the rocky summit ledges,
which are dangerous and should be approached with caution. The fire tower on the summit was recently restored for safe public use.
Third & Fourth Lake
(6.8 miles, RT) This is a hikes that takes you past the ruins of several old buildings.
To two lakes that do have wet shore lines. Map & Compass trail.
Now for the family who want to stay close to home .
I have lists of Local Hiking trails and pathways.
Get out there have a great day outside hiking.
Coyote Flats State Forest State Reforestation Area
Jefferson #10
Directions:From Watertown, take Interstate 81 north to exit 49. Make a right onto Route 411 east.
Travel about 1/4 mile and turn right on Snell road. Proceed 2 miles.
Perch River
7,862 acres, upland, wetland, boat access, parking lot, viewing tower, scenic vistas, birdwatching, hunting,
Fishing and trapping.
From Watertown, take Interstate 81 north to exit 47.
Make a left onto Route 12 north. Travel about 6 miles to signs and parking areas
Tug Hill
5,114 acres,
upland, hiking trails, parking lot, birdwatching, camping, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hunting,
fishing and trapping.
From Watertown, take Interstate 81 south to exit 42-Adams Center.
Travel east on Route 177 to Bellwood.
Turn right onto the Sears Pond Road which turns into Parker Road and eventually the WMA.
Onjebonge State Forest
Recreational pursuits here include fishing on the Indian River, white-tailed deer and small game hunting,
trapping, and woodland hiking and biking.
Access is provided by the Alice Coffey Forest access road (2.6 miles) and the Onjebonge (1.0 miles) and Lime Quarry(1.4 miles).
From Carthage, take State Route 3 north 9.4 miles to Natural Bridge,
turn left on Temple Street then to Lewisburg Road.
Go 0.3 miles to Arnoldville Road. Turn right and proceed 1 mile.
Otter Creek State Forest
Directions
From Lowville, take Number Four Road 3.5 miles to Pine Grove Road.
Follow Pine Grove Road 6 miles to Eatonville Road, turn left, proceed 1.2 miles.
Primary vehicular access to the interior of the property is provided by the Otter Creek Forest
Access Road(1.5 miles), Mikes Road(1.1 miles), Campsite #1 Road (0.6 mile), and the Oxbow Road(0.5 mile).
This 1206 acre state forest is named for the trout stream that meanders for a distance of nearly 3 miles ,
from east to west through the middle of the tract. The gorge cut by this waterway offers the visitor many breathtaking
views from various vistas along its rim.
Lace up those dusty hiking boots and Take a Hike today.
Hiking The Adirondacks area of New York
Easy Trail, Distance, Directions Description and Special Attractions
Codes for Hikes
R=Wildflowers
W=Waterfalls
H=Historical Background
V-Mountain/Valley Vistas
A=Abundant Wildlife
S=Swimming
F=Fishing
T =Colorful Fall Foliage
Blue Ledge on the Hudson
This hike takes you to the shore of the Hudson River.
It leads to a turbulent section under the Blue ledges. The trail has wildflowers in spring.
Code = A T R
5 mi. roundtrip From North Creek, take NY 28 north for 9.4 miles, then left on North Woods Country Rd
for just under 7 miles.
Mount Baker
This is a pleasant and steady trail through lush, quiet forest to the summit of Mt. Baker.
However, the summit is also forested so you'll need to walk around and explore to discover the views.
It makes a great lunchtime hike so you can eat amongst colorful wildflowers while listening to the birds
and looking out into the mountains.
Code = A R T V
2 mi. round trip From downtown Saranac Lake, go to Main Street then turn right on Dugway.
At the end of Dugway take the first left on to Forest Hill Ave.
Go to Moody Pond where the trailhead. Park across from the trailhead alongside the pond.
Peaked Mountain Trail
The trail to the pond at 2.5 miles is easy and leads through pretty forest.
If you continue to the summit of Peaked Mountain, at 2,919 feet, the last third of a mile
is rough climbing 600 feet. The views from the summit include Peaked Mountain Pond and Big
and Little Thirteenth Lakes. There are also distant views of the Adirondack High Peaks and Vermont's
Green Mountains.
Code = V T
6 mi. round trip By North River on NY 28, south on Thirteenth Lake Road for Siamese Ponds Wilderness/Thirteenth Lake.
After 3 miles, make a right on a beach road that enters the wilderness area. The trailhead is .5 mile.
Murphy Lake Trail
We took the trail in fall and the forest of maple, birch, aspen oak and ash was incredible.
Murphy Lake Trail leads past a deserted mining area where you still can see some signs to Bennett, Middle and Murphy Lakes
H T 10 mi. round trip
Code = T A
From NY 30 them east on Creek Road. The trailhead is 2.2 miles.
Blue Mountain
We found this hike when we stopped at the Adirondack Museum.
It climbs 1,750 feet in 2 miles to the top of Blue Mountain where there are views of Adirondack lakes
and ponds that stretch into the distance. Across from Tirrell Pond in the west is the Tirrell Mountains
and many of the high peaks of the Adirondacks can be seen beyond that; there is a nicely situated picnic table with the view making
a great lunch spot.The west view from the summit is Blue Mountain Lake and the Eckford Chain.
There is a fire tower at the summit (3,759 ft) and I understand a ranger is usually there.
The view from the tower is even better providing a 360° view
V 4 mi. round trip The trailhead is .1 mi. north of the Adirondack Museum
which is a little over a mile from the intersection of NY 28N and NY 30
Snowy Mountain
Snowy Mountain is the highest peak in the southern Adirondacks at 3,899 feet.
You can not enjoy Snowy's views from its broad summit but you can walk through the scrub at the peak
for outstanding views of Indian Lake, the distant High Peaks and unbroken wilderness.
The trail is easy until the last mile when it climbs a steep pitch.
The last .5 mile is very steep and worn and you may have to use your hands for some balance.
The total elevation change is 2,100 feet.
V 7.8 mi. round trip
The signed trailhead is on NY 30, 17 miles north of Speculator and 7 miles south of Indian Village.
Crane Mountain
Crane Mountain is an isolated mountain offering clear distant views of Vermont's Green Mountains,
Lake George, Blue, Speculator, Snowy and several other mountains.
There are also distant views of the Adirondack High Peaks.
A mile from the summit is Crane Mountain Pond where you can take a clean, cold swim.
The first 1.5 mile of this trail are easy then it climbs 700 feet in .5 mile.
To reach the peak, you will have to climb 6 foot and 15 foot ladders.
V 4.9 mi. loop From NY 8 take South Johnsburg Rd. to Garnet Lake Rd.
From there follow the signs to Crane Mtn.
Kaaterskill Falls
Location: North NY
Length: 2
This is an easy day-trip hike, great for beginners, great for families and to get introduced into hiking.
The trail is a mere 30 minutes to the top where a spectacular 3-tiered waterfall lays.
Facing the waterfall there is a closed trail to the top of the falls that is of medium challenge (due to the steepness )
and one wall that requires climbing - no equipment however is neccessary).
The climb to the top is simply spectacular, at the top of the falls two trails begin and camping is allowed 150 feet
past the river.
Well worth the drive
Directions to Hike
Greene County near Hunter Mountain Ski Resort
Part of the Catskill's North Lake Area
Kaaterskill Falls is an easy drive from the NY State Thruway ( I 87 )
Take Exit 20, at Saugerties, Route 32 North, bear left on Route 32 A North/West, to Route 23A West at Palenville.
It is on the hairpin turn on 23A between Palenville and Haines Falls.
( Taken from http://www.soluna.com/falls/kaater2.htm )
Contact Information
New York - New Jersey Trail Conference
GPO Box 2250
New York, NY 10116
(212) 685-9699
*** Moderately Hard Hikes ***
Bald Mountain
This trail and the peak of Bald Mountain have great views of the Fulton Chain of Lakes.
Also from the peak, where there is a fire tower, are views of Mounts Marcy and Colden 56 miles away.
This trail can be combined with the Vista Trail.
Vista 2 mi. round trip Trailhead is off Rondaxe Road, just off the intersection with NY 28, 4.5 mi. east of Old Forge.
Santanoni Preserve
Santanoni Preserve was once a private estate that is now a wilderness retreat.
The hike to Newcomb lake is quiet and except for the distance is easy with only a 200 foot gain in elevation
The lake is remote and surrounded by mountains.
You can arrange to to have your canoe transported by horse to the lake (see link at left)
or just enjoy the hike and swimming in the lake. The trail is an old road so it is broad and is also used by cyclists.
Code = V S
mi. round trip The preserve entrance is in Newcomb.
Haystack Mountain
The view from the top of Haystack Mountain (4,961 feet) includes the High Peaks,
Saranac Lake and several other lakes.
V 6.3 mi. round trip
From Saranac Lake, take NY 86 East to Ray Brook, proceed 1.6 miles past NY State DEC Headquarters
to parking area on left. Follow blue DEC trail markers.
Goodnow Mountain
Goodnow Mountain is 2,685 feet tall but at its summit is a 60-foot fire tower that has good Adirondacks views that include
the High Peaks. The trail is steep rising 1,025 feet but short.
A map by the fire tower helps identify the mountains.
The north view is through Indian Pass and includes the Wallface and MacIntyre Mountains. Mounts Marcy, Adams
and Haystack are also visible. For the effort, this is probably one of the best views of the Adirondacks.
A 3.5 mi. round trip The trailhead is on NY 28N, 1.5 miles west of the Newcomb Visitors' Center
John Brown's Tract to Middle Settlement Lake
Location: north NY
Length: 3.25
An out-and-back hike to middle settlement lake, a beautiful secluded place sitting between 7 small hills.
Start your trip by crossing route 28 from the parking area, just a couple hundred feet down the trail you'll find the DEC register
(look for Doug and Melanie, April 2004!).
From the register up is the steepest segment of the trip. Watch your step as this would be pretty slick if wet !
At the top of the hill after the trail head, expect to navigate through a series of down trees across the trail.
Keep your eyes peeled on the round DEC trail markers.
At .5 miles, you'll hit a signpost, where you'll want to take a left (sign points to ( Middle Settlement Lake as well )
The trail is pretty flat for the next .8 miles, and at 1.37 miles you'll hit another sign post, where you veer right / north.
You'll head down hill until you hit a stream that's feeding from Grass and Cedar ponds from the north-east and north-north-west respectively.
As you travel uphill from this stream, you'll get a good view of grass pond (1.73 miles).
At 2.5 miles, after going over another slight hill, you'll hit the last sign post (for this hike!) take a left, following the sign to Middle Settlement Lake.
You'll come into a huge glacial pile of rocks, they're really awe-inspiring, and just past the rocks,
you'll get a nice shot south-west directly across middle-settlement lake. If you look hard, you can see the shelter from here.
Somewhere around 2.75 miles, you'll see a small sign for a trail leading to the overlook over middle settlement
(admittedly the sign is easier to see on the way out).
The trails around the lake are easiest, so if you've got overnight equipment, you might want to drop your packs at a site,
and come back here later to explore.
You'll hit the shelter at about 3.15 miles. You can check it out, and sign the log if you wish...
There's several other existing campsites around the lake to check out, which if you're like me...
you'll definately prefer to the shelter (even though there is a nice view of the lake from there).
don't know how reliable the water of Middle Settlment lake is, but...
I did drink it after purifying it with a Hiker water filter, and it tasted great, and we didn't become ill.
Here's a topograph
Directions to Hike
Trailhead is on Rt 28, approximately 3 miles south of Thendara. If travelling south from Thendara, parking for trailhead is on right,
at a large turn-out. Trail is north across 28, with signs that read "State Access".
Approximate coordinates for parking are N43 40.531 W075 03.116.
Contact Information
Adirondack Park Contact Info:
Route 30 Box 3000
Paul Smiths, NY 12970
phone: (518) 327-3000
Buttermilk Falls State Park
105 Enfield Falls Rd.
Ithaca, NY 14850
Phone: (607) 273-5761 (summer)
Phone: (607) 273-3440
The upper park has a small lake, hiking trails through woodlands and along the gorge and rim, picnic areas and playing fields.
The lower park has a campground, pool and playing fields, beyond which is Larch Meadows.
Larch Meadows is a moist, shady glen and wetland area through which a nature trail winds.
Park activities including tours through Buttermilk gorge are offered weekly from July 4th through Labor Day.
Go South 33.2 miles on I-81 in NY to Jct I-81 & NY-13, Exit 12, at CORTLAND NY
Go South 0.9 miles on NY-13 in NY to Jct NY-13 & US-11 at CORTLAND NY
Go North 0.1 miles on US-11 in NY to Jct US-11 & NY-13 at CORTLAND NY
Go South 24.1 miles on NY-13 in NY to Jct NY-13 & NY-79 at ITHACA NY
Allegany State Park
2373 ASP, Route 1, Suite 3
Salamanca, NY 14779
Phone: (716) 354-9121 Open All Year.
Allegany State Park's 65,000 acres is known for its primitive forested valleys, un-glaciated landscape fall leaves and wildlife.
The two developed areas, Red House and Quaker, make this the largest state park in the system.
Both areas offer sand beaches, picnic areas, museums, hiking trails and naturalist walks.
Go West 7.5 miles on I-690 in NY to Jct I-690 & I-90, Exit 4, by LIVERPOOL NYGo West 38.7 miles on I-90 in NY to Jct I-90 & NY-14, Exit 42, by PHELPS NY
Go South 19.6 miles on NY-14 in NY to Jct NY-14 & NY-54 at DRESDEN NY
Go South 33.7 miles on NY-54 in NY to Jct NY-54 & I-86 at BATH NY Go West 91.0 miles on I-86 in NY to Destination
Anthony Wayne Recreation Area
Palisades Interstate Park Commission
Bear Mountain, NY 1091
Phone: ( 845 ) 942-2560 Seasons/Hours : Open year round.
The Anthony Wayne Recreation Area of Harriman State Park lies in a wooded valley.
Facilities include picnic areas with fireplaces, playing fields and cross-country ski and hiking trails.
Go North 0.3 miles on US-11 in NY to Jct US-11 & I-81 in SYRACUSE NY
Go South 78.0 miles on I-81 in NY to Jct I-81 & NY-17, Exit 75, by PORT DICKINSON NY
Go East 137.3 miles on NY-17 in NY to Jct NY-17 & LOCAL by TUXEDO PARK NY
Go West 1.3 miles on LOCAL in NY to Jct LOCAL & Local
Go 0.3 miles on Local in NY to Destination
Catharine Valley Trail
c/o Watkins Glen State Park
P.O. Box 304 Watkins Glen, NY 14891
Phone: (607) 535-4511
Seasons/Hours: Open year round from dawn to dusk.
This year round recreation trail provides visitors the opportunity to experience the scenic beauty and historic charm
of the glacially-carved valley south of Seneca Lake.
Following abandoned railroad and canal towpath corridors, the trail passes through a variety of wildlife habitats.
The compact stone-dust trail surface accommodates walking, bicycling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Two trail access points are located off NYS Route 14, one in the Town of Montour and one in the Village of Millport.
Go North 0.3 miles on US-11 in NY to Jct US-11 & I-81 in SYRACUSE NY
Go South 33.2 miles on I-81 in NY to Jct I-81 & NY-13, Exit 12, at CORTLAND NY
Go South 0.9 miles on NY-13 in NY to Jct NY-13 & US-11 at CORTLAND NY
Go North 0.1 miles on US-11 in NY to Jct US-11 & NY-13 at CORTLAND NY
Go South 40.4 miles on NY-13 in NY to Jct NY-13 & NY-224 by ODESSA NY
Go West 8.4 miles on NY-224 in NY to Jct NY-224 & NY-14 at MONTOUR FALLS NY
Go South 0.8 miles on NY-14 in NY to Jct NY-14 & Local
Cherry Plain State Park
26 State Park Road
P.O. Box 11 Cherry Plain, NY 12040
Phone: (518) 733-5400
Fax: (518) 733-0671
Seasons / Hours:
The park is open for swimming from Memorial Day through mid-June on weekends and then
June 26 through Labor Day, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
Camping is available from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Also available Fridays and Saturdays: the first weekend of May to Memorial Day & then Labor Day to Columbus Day.
Go North 2.7 miles on I-481 in NY to Jct I-481 & I-90, Exit 6, by EAST SYRACUSE NY
Go East 116.2 miles on I-90 in NY to Jct I-90 & I-890, Exit 26, by SCOTIA NY
Go East 7.2 miles on I-890 in NY to Jct I-890 & NY-7 in SCHENECTADY NY
Go East 9.7 miles on NY-7 in NY to Jct NY-7 & NY-2 at LATHAM NY
Go East 24.2 miles on NY-2 in NY to Jct NY-2 & NY-22
Go South 9.2 miles on NY-22 in NY to Jct NY-22 & Local
Go 0.4 miles on Local in NY to Destination
Chimney Bluffs State Park
7700 Garner Road
Wolcott, NY 1459
Phone: (315) 947-5205
Open year round from dawn to dusk.
Land and water clash at Chimney Bluffs, sculpting the most dramatic landscape on the Lake Ontario shore.
You can experience massive earthen spires from above or along the lakeshore on nature trails.
Day-use services include picnic areas, nature trails and restrooms.
Go North 0.4 miles on I-81 in NY to Jct I-81 & I-690, Exit 12, in SYRACUSE NY
Go West 7.5 miles on I-690 in NY to Jct I-690 & NY-690, Exit 4, by LIVERPOOL NY
Go West 6.7 miles on NY-690 in NY to Jct NY-690 & NY-370 by BALDWINSVILLE NY
Go West 22.4 miles on NY-370 in NY to Jct NY-370 & NY-104 at RED CREEK NY
Go West 4.4 miles on NY-104 in NY to Jct NY-104 & NY-89 at WOLCOTT NY
Go North 0.9 miles on NY-89 in NY to Jct NY-89 & LOCAL at WOLCOTT NY
Go West 0.2 miles on LOCAL in NY to Jct LOCAL & Local
Go 0.1 miles on Local in NY to Destination
Long Point State Park on Lake Chautauqua
4459, Route 430
Bemus Point, NY 14712
Phone: (716) 386-2722
Day Use; Open All Year
Long Point, which juts peninsula-like into Lake Chautauqua, is one of the moraines left long ago by a retreating glacier.
The park and marina comprise a day-use area with thickly-wooded areas of beech, maple, spruce, poplar and oak
The park's boat launch is the most modern on Lake Chautauqua, which, at 1,308 feet above sea level,
is one of the highest navigable bodies of water in North America.
The lake has a plentiful supply of bass, perch, pike and other types of fish,
but fishermen come to Chautauqua to fish for muskellunge.
From SYRACUSE, NY to BEMUS POINT, NY 14712 Miles: : 225.9 | Trip Time: 3:26
Go West 7.5 miles on I-690 in NY to Jct I-690 & I-90, Exit 4, by LIVERPOOL NY
Go West 198.9 miles on I-90 in NY to Jct I-90 & NY-394, Exit 60, at WESTFIELD NY
Go East 7.4 miles on NY-394 in NY to Jct NY-394 & NY-430 at MAYVILLE NY
Go East 11.0 miles on NY-430 in NY to Jct NY-430 & Local Go 0.4 miles on Local in NY to Destination
Robert G. Wehle State Park
5502 Military Road
Henderson, NY 13650
Phone: (315) 938-5083
Seasons/Hours:
The Residence is available Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day.
Robert G. Wehle State Park is the region's newest park.
The former estate of Mr. Wehle, the park boasts 1,100 acres and over 17,000 ft of spectacular Lake Ontario shoreline.
Among the facilities immediately available to the public is the residential compound featuring the main house,
guest quarters the “studio” and formal gardens.
Extremely private, the area can accommodate up to 8 people.
Rental arrangements can be made through the Wescott Beach State Park office.
Also available are over 10 miles of hiking/mountain biking trails, tennis court, picnicking and cross-country skiing.
Hunting is allowed in designated areas during the season.Miles: : 65.0 | Time: 1:03 From SYRACUSE, NY to HENDERSON, NY
Go North 56.1 miles on I-81 in NY to Jct I-81 & NY-178, Exit 41, at ADAMS NY
Go West 8.5 miles on NY-178 in NY to Jct NY-178 & Local Go 0.1 miles on Local in NY to Destination
Silver Lake State Park
c/o Letchworth State Park
Castile, NY 14427
Phone: (585) 493-3600
Silver Lake State Park provides a boat launch facility for boating and fishing on the lake.
The area also has picnic facilities and a new comfort station which is open year round.
From SYRACUSE, NY to CASTILE, NY 14427 Miles: : 124.6 | Time: 2:06 |
Go West 74.4 miles on I-90 in NY to Jct I-90 & I-390, Exit 46, by SCOTTSVILLE NY
Go South 17.3 miles on I-390 in NY to Jct I-390 & US-20 ALT, Exit 8, by LIVONIA NY
Go West 12.2 miles on US-20 ALT in NY to Jct US-20 ALT & NY-39 by LEICESTER NY
Go South 11.9 miles on NY-39 in NY to Jct NY-39 & Local
Go 0.6 miles on Local in NY to Destination
Carantouan Greenway (Trails and Wildlands)
On-road and woodlands biking and hiking, birding and boating along the complex of trails,
parks and amenities following the Susquehanna and Chemung Rivers in the Penn-York Valley.
In the New York State side of the Valley. Trails and trees marked for identification.
Tree trail guides may be picked up at local Valley libraries or contact the Greenway directly.
Trails pass through diverse habitat providing some habitat for waterfowl and shorebirds.
Contact: Carantouan Greenway, PO Box 441 , Sayre, PA 18840. 607-565-2636
Fairfield State Forest
Located in the town of Candor off of Rt 33 and Lathrop Road. 815 undeveloped acres. http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/37358.html
Finger Lakes Trail
Finger Lakes Trail Conference
6111 Visitor Center Road,
The Finger Lakes Trail is a footpath for hikers which stretches 560 miles
from the PA/NY border in Allegany State Park to the Long Path in the Catskill Forest Preserve, crossing beautiful and remote areas
of the Southern Tier, including the Town of Richford in Tioga County. Information for obtaining detailed maps is on the website.
Carantouan Greenway Forbidden Path
Length of trails: 1/2 mile. Altitude Extreme 220 feet. USGS Maps: Waverly, Barton. Features: spring, woodlands in Village.
Access: Take Rt. 17 (I-86) to exit 60. Go north on Rt. 220 for only a few yards (toward Waverly).
Forbidden Path begins in the hollow on your left between I-86 and 17 C.
Forbidden Path Trail requires that you go over the embankment to the trailhead.
It parallels the RR tracks and ends at the Carantouan Spring, a historic Andaste Indian site.
You must use your imagination to picture how in past days of necessity, it was the source of fresh water for traveling hunters.
Jenksville State Forest
Shirley Road, Newark Valley, New York. Over 11 miles of trails ranging from easy to difficult.
Elevations vary from about 1300 to over 1650 feet. Excellent woodland views of Jenksville and Speedsville from a hilltop. http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/8189.html
Ketchumville State Forest
500 acres. Located off Route 38 in the town of Newark Valley.
Michigan Hill State Forest
Located off Route 38 in the town of Richford, NY. Over 100 acres of of wooded land.
http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/37372.html
Oakley Corners State Forest
Corner of Dutchtown and Hullsville Roads, Owego, NY.15 miles of hiking, biking and cross-country skiing trails.
1042 acres of scenic views and modest hills.
Old River Road Trail
Enjoy multi-modal facility two-way bikes, one way traffic west, rollerblading, strolling along newly paved and reconfigured scenic road following Chemung River west out of Waverly, south of RR tracks on Rt. 220. turn west. Exit 60, Rt. 17, park on Broad Street. Six (6) miles, Waverly to Chemung.
From Route 79 southeast of Ithaca, do south (right) on Route 38 in Richford.
Right after the village, at the "55 MPH" sign, turn right on Andersen Hill Road.
This will make a right-angle turn to the west.
About 0.3-mile up the hill, watch for the entrance (an old logging road) on the right.
161 acres of open fields and a mature hardwood forest.
A tributary of the east branch of the Owego Creek runs through the property, forming a beautiful ravine with
a series of small waterfalls and a steep slope of hemlock and yellow birch.
Robinson Hollow State Forest
1,937 acres. Located off Route 79, south of the Tompkins County border.
The high elevations of this state forest seem to hold snow very well when it has disappeared elsewhere.
To access upper reaches of the forest, head to Dryden, then south on Route 38, to Harford.
Turn left on Cheese Factory Rd., then right onto Beam Rd. Follow to top.
Shindagin Hollow State Forest
The largest public parcel in Tioga County at 5,265 acres, which actually spills
over into neighboring Tompkins County. Located north of Candor, NY on Honeypot Road.
Waterman Conservation Center Nature Trails
PO Box 377, 403 Hilton Road
Apalachin, NY 13732 607-625-2221
www.watermancenter.org
Miles of trails wander through these 95 acres of upland forest and open meadows with a small gorge.
Other sites operated by Waterman include the APALACHIN MARSH (a 50-acre wetland boasting one of the best birding sites in NY).
BRICK POND (an excellent wildlife-watching site with beavers, muskrats, waterfowl,
shorebirds, and a great variety of songbirds) and HIAWATHA ISLAND (112 acre island refuge and 18 acre mainland riverfront park
filled with a variety of wildlife). Phone for details. No dogs, please. Open year round, free to the public. 10 am - 4 pm.
Waverly Glen and Glenwood Trails
Access: Take Rt. 17 (I-86) to exit 60. Go north on Rt. 220 to the stop sign and turn right onto Broad Street.
Take the 1st left onto Pine. Stay left to Moore Street and entrance to Waverly Glen Park.
There are many trails here used by the Waverly cross-country teams for training.
These trails connect to Two Rivers State Park Trails to the North.
Wildwood Nature Reserve
Length of trails: 1.2 miles Altitude Extreme 220 feet. USGS Maps: Waverly, Barton.
Features: spring, pond, marsh, woods, meadow.
Access: From Waverly. Take 17C east fro about 3 miles. Turn right onto Shepard Roiad.
Proceed for about 1/3 mile and take left into the parking lot of the Wildwood Nature Reserve.
Contact: Carantouan Greenway, PO Box 441, Sayre , PA 18840. 607-565-2636.
Trails and trees marked for identification.
Tree trail guides may be picked up at local Valley libraries or contacting the Greenway directly.