Outdoor
Hiking
Finger Lakes National Forest
The only national forest in New York with free camping and 30+ miles of trails
Ages
4–18+
Cost
Free
Duration
~3hrs
Difficulty
Easy
Setting
Outdoor
The only national forest in New York State, spread across 16000 acres of rolling terrain between Seneca and Cayuga Lakes. Over 30 miles of interconnected trails wind through meadows, pastures, and forest. The Interloken Trail is the signature route but shorter loops are available for families. Kids will see grazing cattle in the open pastures, which is unusual for a national forest. Blueberry picking in season is a fun bonus activity. Primitive camping is free and dispersed throughout the forest.
Dog Friendly
Pricing
Free. Primitive camping is also free.
Common Questions
- How much does Finger Lakes National Forest cost?
- Finger Lakes National Forest is free to visit. Free. Primitive camping is also free.
- What ages is Finger Lakes National Forest good for?
- Finger Lakes National Forest is best for kids ages 4 to 18+.
- Is Finger Lakes National Forest stroller friendly?
- No, Finger Lakes National Forest is not considered stroller friendly.
- Can I bring my dog to Finger Lakes National Forest?
- Yes, dogs are welcome at Finger Lakes National Forest.
- How hard is Finger Lakes National Forest?
- The difficulty level is easy. Plan for about 3 hours.
- Is Finger Lakes National Forest free?
- Yes, Finger Lakes National Forest is free!
- What should I bring to Finger Lakes National Forest?
- Hiking shoes, water, bug spray, bucket for blueberries in season
- How long does Finger Lakes National Forest take?
- Most families spend about 3 hours at Finger Lakes National Forest.
- When is the best time to visit Finger Lakes National Forest?
- Late spring through fall. Late July for wild blueberries.
- Is there parking at Finger Lakes National Forest?
- Multiple trailhead parking areas throughout the forest
Plan Your Visit
5218 Route 414, Hector, NY 14841