Anyone with an adventurous spirit will enjoy the 700-mile New York section of the North Country Trail. Between historic forts, old canals, the beautiful Finger Lakes and the famed Adirondack Park, hikers in New York will enjoy rich history and ultra-scenic views.
For over 400 miles, the Finger Lakes Trail shares its route with the NCT. Dramatic glacier-formed ridges, deep verdant valleys, secluded glens, impressive lakes and many waterfalls dominate this region. The Trail through Central New York follows several canal towpaths, including the historic Erie Canal towpath, and woodsy trails. The Trail then passes through the famed, six-million-acre Adirondack Park, crossing eight land units classified as Wild Forest or Wilderness, as well as several easement lands. Through the Central Adirondacks are spectacular mountains and vistas in remote areas of dense forests, rich with many lakes, bogs and cascading streams.
For a curated selection of the five most notable hikes along the NCNST in New York, this digital booklet has been created for your convenience.
Five Notable Hikes: NCNST in New York
Explore the Trail by Region
Finger Lakes Trail: Pennsylvania/New York state line to the Tioughnioga Wildlife Management Area
Central New York: Tioughnioga Wildlife Management Area to the western border of the Adirondack Park
Adirondacks: Western border of the Adirondack Park to the New York/Vermont state line
Important Notes and Additional Information
Please do not camp on private land. Unless posted as “No Camping,” all New York State Forests, Wild Forests, and Wilderness Areas permit dispersed camping (below 3,500 feet elevation) as long as tents are 150 feet from water (stream, pond, lake, bog) and 150 feet from the trail. Adirondack and Finger Lakes Trail lean-tos are open to all (not just the first to occupy) and are labeled on maps. To camp in New York State Parks or Department of Environmental Conservation Adirondack Campgrounds, one must register at the entrance gate or online in advance.
See the NCTA Flickr, New York album for photos of this region of the Trail. Photos are available for public download and use with proper photographer credit. Please see the NCTA Brand Standards + Style Guide for additional guidance on crediting photos.
Header photo by Mary Coffin