We already took a look at Easy-Peasy hiking trails in the Finger Lakes, but what if you want to get that ticker working a little more? Here are some hiking trails that go beyond an easy, level rails-to-trails style path in the Finger Lakes. Get going!
THE FINGER LAKES NATIONAL FOREST – Between the southern ends of Seneca and Cayuga Lakes
The Finger Lakes National Forest offers more than just “moderate” level hikes for you, but most of them would be in this category. There are a few more strenuous ones, and some easier as well, but the majority of them require a bit of a serious hike. The great news is that you are blessed here with a mix of trails through woods, through open fields, and along country roads at times, too.
Bare in mind that you should definitely do your due-diligence before heading out into these connected trails that cover several square miles of rural offerings. This isn’t a leisurely stroll down a rails-to-trail in a community. You are out there, and you should head out with preparation for that in mind. That said, this is not a “wilderness” experience. You and your friends or family can do this.
Like many other trail systems that are not a simple rail-to-trail path, don’t expect paved, or even crushed stone pathways too much. There will be a lot of natural walking paths, some roads, and an occasional all-terrain way. Depending on weather, some paths might not be advisable, so use your common sense here.
You may even wish to stop by the Hector Ranger Station for information and helpful guidance, located in Route 414 in Hector. If not, you can find out a lot of great information here: Finger Lakes Forest