Looking for a new trail to hike with your pup? The Interloken Trail will not disappoint. Located in Central New York’s Finger Lake National Forest, it runs north to south through pawsome scenery and gives your pup plenty of miles to stretch their four legs.
As you and your doggo travel this trail, you’ll pass
through a variety of terrain. If you opt for a north to south route, you’ll begin
in more open and flat landscape. This section of the trail cuts through
pastures. Be sure to close all gates behind
you, as you don’t want to add any bovine hikers to your group! The incline increases
a bit in the southern portion of the trail, but not too much. Throughout your
hike, enjoy the thick forests and tall grasses. There is plenty of shade along
the way, and lots of puptastic places to stop for a break. Your pup will also love the views of both
Seneca and Cayuga Lakes.
If you and your pup are hardcore hikers, this trail can be hiked as a round trip. But, most folks park a shuttle at the opposite end of their starting point and hike the trail one way. Since the Interloken Trail is part of the larger Finger Lakes Trail System, there are also several options for connecting to other trails. The Backbone, Burnt Hill, Gorge, and Ravine Trails are just some of the trails that intersect with the Interloken Trail. If your furry friend isn’t up for the entire 12 mile trek, use one of these connector trails to create a route suitable to their abilities.
You can expect to see horseback riders
and mountain bikers along the way. Water
and restrooms are available at Blueberry Patch Campground, Backbone Horse
Campground and Potomac Group Campground. Be sure to pack enough water for both
you and your pup, and always clean up after them. Most importantly, have a
furrific time hiking through the beautiful forest with your four legged BFF!