FINGER LAKES TRAIL
The Finger Lakes Trail runs west from the Catskills across the lower jpart of New York State, passing through the beautiful Finger Lakes region and then down to the Pennsylvania border. Terrain along the way is hilly and occasionally mountainous.
The main stem of the trail is over 500 miles long, with additional mileage provided by seven different branch trails. Almost 400 miles are being utilized as part of the new North Country Trail (see next entry).
The trail is on public as well as private lands. Difficulty ranges from easy to strenuous. In addition to hiking and backpacking, it’s suitable for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter. Horses and mountain bikes are prohibited.
Camping Regulations: A number of lean-tos and designated campsites are located along the trail. For some stretches camping is restricted to such sites, and campfires are limited to fire rings provided. A stove is recommended for cooking.
Where the trail is on state forest land, camping and campfires are allowed almost anywhere, but campsites must be at least 150 feet from water sources and the trail. On these lands a permit is required for groups of 10 or more, or to remain at a campsite for more than three days.
For Further Information: Finger Lakes Trail Conference, P.O. Box 18048, Rochester, NY 14618. A series of trail maps and guidebooks are available from this organization.
