Myranda Davis
Mayhood’s Sporting Goods
CHENANGO COUNTY – For those who are looking for a great family outdoor activity, check out the Finger Lakes Trail.
This trail passes through several of our local townships including McDonough, Oxford, Bainbridge, and more. I have spent many days out on this trail with family and friends. I hope to one day hike the entire length of this trail from end to end.
The idea to create the Finger Lakes Trail was established in 1961. Not long after, in 1962 the Finger Lakes Trail Conference (FLTC) was established. This organization helps to build, protect, and maintain the Finger Lakes Trail system.
The main trail is approximately 580 miles long. One end of the trail is in Allegheny State Park which is located in western New York, near the Pennsylvania border. The other end of the trail goes to the Long Path of the Catskill Forest Preserve. There are several other trails that connect to the Finger Lakes trail system. These trails are referred to as loop, spur, and branch trails which total about another 412 miles. In all there is approximately 1,000 miles of trails available for recreational use.
The Finger Lakes Trail passes through an even mixture of public and private lands – with the landowner’s permission. If you decide to take a hike along part of the trail it is asked that you show respect to landowners, since they were kind enough to allow the trail to pass through their property.
Some property owners do not permit hiking on their property during hunting season – this will be marked on the FLTC maps. Maintenance of the trail is provided by volunteers who log approximately 15,000 hours each year. The trail is established as a foot path. The use of bicycles, motorized vehicles or equipment, and horseback riding is not permitted unless specifically approved.
