TAUGHANNOCK FALLS GORGE TRAIL (Taughannock State Park – Trumansburg)
This gentle sloping earth and compact stone dust trail meanders along the base of a stream carved gorge, through deeply shaded and sun-dappled trees to one of the most impressive water falls in the northeast. The trail is approximately a mile long, leaving the shores of the west side of Cayuga Lake and walking west to the high falls that are the namesake of this NYS park.
Located about 8 miles north of the city of Ithaca, the state park is on both sides of route 89. For the trail, use the parking area located on the west (away from the lake) side of the entrance.
one is near the start of the walking trail.
The trail is a pleasant walk along the flowing Taughannock Creek, with gentle falls separated by calm pools. Don’t be afraid to bring your water shoes or sandals to wade along the creek if you like!
The climax of your walk will be the majestic falls itself, about 1 mile from the trailhead, which is located near the parking lot. Along the walk to the falls, informational signs teach you about the geologic history and how the many gorges such as this one were created throughout the Finger Lakes region.
THINGS TO KNOW: There is a parking fee at this state park. Though open all year, use sensible caution during the winter months for obvious icy situations. Dogs are welcome, just please clean up after them as needed.
For more information: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/62/hunting.aspx
CATHERINE VALLEY TRAIL (Watkins Glen to Horseheads)
Located in the Watkins Glen area, this rails-to-trails route is a beautiful and gentle excursion through the glacier-gorged valley of Catherine Creek, the southern inlet to Seneca Lake. The mostly compacted stone-dust trail doubles as a biking trail, too, so always be aware. Though technically the trail reaches into the communities of Watkins Glen and Horseheads (read the map carefully), the easiest parts of the trail extend north and south from the village of Montour Falls. The trail jumps in and out of shade and open sunlight, and is open year-round (use good judgement concerning weather).
Things to know: Though part of the NY State Parks system, there is no charge for any part of this walk/parking. Two dogs are allowed per guest, leashed (6′). Be sure to check out the link below for a great map and more information.
For more information: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/catharinevalley/details.aspx
KEUKA OUTLET TRAIL (Penn Yan to Dresden)
This beautiful seven mile rails-to-trails (one of the earliest ever!) walk follows the outlet stream (former working canal) connecting Keuka Lake to Seneca Lake. The ghosts of industrial age mills line the banks of the outlet, leaving us with the beauty of several mill waterfalls for our pleasure. It is a mostly shaded path of crushed cinder for most of the route, with a light elevation change going downhill if you go from west to east (Penn Yan to Dresden). There are picnic areas at select locations, and the trail has a few entrance opportunities along its route. This trail is open for your hiking, biking, fishing, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, or snowmobiling interests!
Things to know: The trail is free of charge. Outlet flow rates vary as needed toward keeping the lake levels of Keuka (mostly) and Seneca (somewhat) manageable. The trail is open year round.
For more information: https://www.keukaoutlettrail.org/
CHARLIE MAJOR NATURE TRAIL (Skaneateles)
As with most all former rails-to-trails, this picturesque walkway has gentle elevation changes as it follows along Skaneateles Creek just north of the village with the same name. Also customary to these types of trails, there is history of old mills throughout the length, one of which currently houses a local brewery (Skaneateles Brewery) and a distillery (Last Shot Distillery). (as of this writing, we are not sure how easy/difficult access to these venues are from the trail – but it sure looks close!)
THINGS TO KNOW: Though predominately made up of packed cinder and dirt, it promotes itself and being wheelchair accessible, along with permission to bike, cross country ski, and fish along the trail, too.
For more information: https://www.traillink.com/trail-gallery/charlie-major-nature-trail/
SPERR MEMORIAL PARK (Big Flats)
Located at the southern edge of the Finger Lakes, this park has two interesting walks, the first longer than the second. The longer trail is the rails-to-trails route extending from the edge of the community of Big Flats eastward for 1.7 miles, with the park located part way. The trail west of the park is mostly open and sunny, while the part going east of the park is more shaded. The 2nd, shorter trail goes around the fishing pond, and provides nice wildlife and flora experiences.
Things to know: The park is dedicated to Trooper Andrew J. Speer, killed in the line of duty while attempting to apprehend bank robbers near the park’s location. There is a picnic facility and playground for young children, as well as fishing access for the large pond. Rest room facilities are provided at the park, too.
For more information: https://www.traillink.com/trail/big-flats-trail/