Skaneateles Loop

This route begins at the Memorial Rock parking area off Gully Road. From the lot, follow signs for the Gully Farm Trails heading southeast through a mix of hardwood forest and meadow terrain. After a short distance, bear right at the junction toward Guppy Falls, where a side path leads to a view of the cascading 20–25 foot waterfall in a wooded ravine. Return to the main trail, cross Gully Road, and continue into the Beaver Trails network. Stay left at junctions to reach the O’Loughlin Trails, which loop through old farm fields and rolling forest that connects back into the Beaver Trails. Continue staying left to reach the Federal Farm Trails, a broader loop that leads to a fishing pond and observation deck in addition to other points of interest. Numerous connecting trails throughout the Gully Farm, Beaver, and Federal Farm areas allow hikers to shorten or extend the route, making it easy to adapt based on time, conditions, or desired difficulty. The route finishes by looping through Federal Farm, returning through the Beaver Trails network, and crossing Gully Road to the parking area. Expect moderate elevation changes, wet sections near falls and streams, and a mix of trail surfaces including packed dirt, roots, and boardwalks. Wildlife is common, and seasonal hunting is permitted—bright colors are recommended in fall. The variety of terrain, habitat, and landmarks makes this one of the best day hikes in Central New York’s conservation lands.