Finger Lakes National Forest

Finger Lakes National Forest sits on about 16,200 acres of land that lies in a ridge that is located in Seneca and Schuyler counties, between Seneca and Cayuga Lakes in the Finger Lakes Region of New York State. The largest close-by city to the forest is Ithaca. To access the park, you can use several roads including Interstate-90, Interstate I-81, and VT 17. 

The forest was designated a National Forest in 1985 and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Finger Lakes National Forest is not only the only National Forest in New York but also the only public land in the state that has is explicitly known for its multiple uses. The forest has several unique attractions that lure crowds including access to over 10 miles of the Interloken National Recreation Trail. 

The forest also has an area designated for the growth of several fruits including raspberries, blueberries, and apples. Cattle are allowed to graze in parts of the forest, and this is a way to provide the habitat for the rare and tiny Henslow sparrow. Besides these attractions, the forest also has several exciting and attractive resources including 30+ miles of intersecting trails, three campgrounds, visitor center, dispersed camping, and several picnic sites. 

As part of the forests philosophy, the use of the forest is meant for multiple purposes, and this is a great attraction to visitors of the protected area.  The forest is a favorite among visitors that love the outdoors and specifically those that enjoy recreational activities like hiking, snowmobiling, fishing, camping, hunting, horseback riding, blueberry picking, cross-country skiing. 

Dogs are allowed into the forest as long as they are well-managed and cared for. The primary rules regarding dogs are to ensure that dogs are always on a leash or kept in a secure enclosure at all times. Furthermore, dog owners are expected to clean up after their dogs and properly dispose of the poop.