Rising between the shimmering waters of Seneca Lake and Cayuga Lake, Finger Lakes National Forest offers a distinctly different landscape from typical eastern woodlands. This 16,352-acre preserve—the only national forest in New York State—features open pastures where cattle graze freely alongside hikers, a tradition dating back to the forest’s agricultural roots before its 1985 establishment.
Over 30 miles of interconnecting trails wind through dramatic gorges, wildflower-filled meadows, and dense woodlands. The Interloken Trail spans the forest’s length, connecting to shorter loops that pass through ravines carved by ancient glacial activity. Unlike the rugged Adirondacks to the north, this terrain remains accessible to casual hikers while still delivering scenic payoffs.
Eight campgrounds provide overnight options ranging from developed sites to primitive backcountry camping. Blueberry Patch Campground lives up to its name during late summer when wild berries ripen along nearby trails. Fishing enthusiasts find stocked ponds throughout the forest, with Potomac Group Campground offering easy water access.
The forest sits just 15 miles northwest of Ithaca, making it an easy day trip from Cornell University’s campus or a complement to Finger Lakes wine trail excursions. Spring brings trillium blooms and migrating warblers; fall transforms the hardwood canopy into a mosaic of amber and crimson.
Roads remain open year-round, though winter snowfall attracts cross-country skiers to ungroomed trails. No entrance fees apply—simply drive in via County Route 2 and start exploring.
Explore Nearby
- Finger Lakes State Park — State Park in Missouri
- Lodi Point State Park — State Park in New York
- McAuley Road Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in North Carolina
- Knapp’s Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Pennsylvania
- Sodus Point Light — Lighthouse in New York
