Sugar Hill State Forest Trail
📍 10.2 Miles 🚘 16 Minutes 🚲 1 hour 22 Minutes
A scenic wilderness escape above the lakes
Tucked in the highlands between Keuka and Seneca Lake, Sugar Hill State Forest is one of the largest public forests in the Finger Lakes region. With over 9,000 acres of mixed woodlands, ridgelines, and wildlife habitat, it offers quiet trails, sweeping overlooks, and an authentic backcountry feel—all just a short, scenic drive from your stay at North Forest FLX.
This forest is perfect for a peaceful morning hike, a picnic in the pines, or a full day of exploration through old-growth groves, fern-carpeted paths, and gently rolling hills.
The Sugar Hill Recreation Area
The hub of the forest is the Sugar Hill Recreation Area, home to the Sugar Hill Fire Tower. Visitors can climb this historic tower for panoramic views of the surrounding lakes, valleys, and hills. On a clear day, you’ll see for miles. There’s also a covered picnic pavilion, horse corrals, primitive camping sites, and vault toilets.
GPS address: Tower Hill Road, Watkins Glen, NY 14891
Things to do
Hiking
Sugar Hill’s Six Nations Trail System includes loops and bridle paths with options for short walks or longer treks through pine groves and upland meadows. Trails are generally wide, with easy to moderate difficulty. The fire tower loop is a quick, rewarding option with minimal elevation gain.
Horseback riding
Sugar Hill is a favorite among equestrians. The horse trails are well-maintained, and there are designated corrals and tie-ups for riders looking to stay overnight or take extended rides through the bridle loops.
Scenic drives
Even if you’re not hiking, the drive alone is worth the trip. Winding forest roads open up to breathtaking views, especially in the fall when the hardwoods burst into color. The overlook near the fire tower is a must-see at sunrise or sunset.
Wildlife and birdwatching
This forest is full of quiet, undisturbed habitat. Visitors frequently spot deer, red foxes, and a variety of birds, from woodpeckers and hawks to seasonal warblers.
Best times to visit
Fall (late September to mid-October): peak foliage and crisp, cool hiking weather.
Summer (June through August): shaded trails and wildflowers in bloom.
Winter (December to March): ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing when snow allows.
North Forest FLX insider tips
Bring water, bug spray, and a downloaded trail map—cell service is limited.
Wear long pants and trail shoes. Ticks and muddy sections are common in spring and summer.
Pack a lunch. There are multiple picnic tables and quiet spots to relax with a view.
Sunrise and golden hour are the best times for photography, especially from the tower.
Nearby attractions
Watkins Glen State Park (20 minutes away): stunning gorge trail and waterfalls
Finger Lakes National Forest (35 minutes): more hiking and seasonal grazing lands
Seneca Lake wineries: perfect for a post-hike drink or local bite
