Finger Lakes National Forest
Hector, Schuyler County
The Finger Lakes National Forest lies on a ridge-called the backbone-between Seneca and Cayuga Lakes in the Finger Lakes region. New York State's only national forest, this multi-use land is reminiscent of western national forests with a great deal of open land and free-ranging cattle. The forest has over 30 miles of interconnecting trails that traverse gorges, ravines, pastures and woodlands. The forest is managed to provide a diversity of native forestlands, shrublands and grasslands, including areas of native older forests, diverse wildlife habitats, quality recreation areas and forage for livestock.
Wildlife to Watch
- Grassland birds, including the rare Henslow's sparrow, grasshopper sparrow, American kestrel, northern harrier and bobolink
- Shrubland birds such as the yellow warbler, Eastern towhee, brown thrasher, yellow-billed cuckoo and goldfinches
- Forest birds including the Northern goshawk, ruffed grouse, American woodcock and scarlet tanager
- White-tailed deer
- Wood ducks
- Eastern wild turkey
- Beavers
- Bobcats
- Red foxes
Where to Watch
- Over 30 miles of trails
- Roadways
- Ponds, gorges, ravines, woodlands and pastures
Recreational Opportunities
- Hiking
- Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Horseback riding
- Biking
- Snowmobiling
- Camping (backcountry camping or at several developed camping areas)
Size
Approximately 16,212 acres
Closest Town
Hector
Directions
See Google Maps and enter your address for step by step directions to the Hector Ranger Station of the Finger Lakes National Forest. (This link will open a page outside of the DEC website. Hold SHIFT down while clicking on the link to open it in a new window.)
Contact Information
Address: Hector Ranger Station at 5218 State Route 414, Hector, NY 14841
Telephone: 607-546-4470
Website: Finger Lakes National Forest (This link leaves DEC's website)
Photo Credits: Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce