Near Bluff Trail
Just before Golden Hour at Chimney Bluffs State Park
Near Bluff Trail
Closing the day at one of the more remarkable State Parks along the eastern shore of Lake Ontario.
Near Bluff Trail
Looking out over the water from the trail.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Bluff Trail

4.0 (8 Ratings)
Hike along the tops of the unique glacial deposits that have become Chimney Bluffs.
1.1
mi
Distance
136
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsFamily FriendlyLakeLakefrontViews
Access Issues
While they're allowed on leash elsewhere, signs make it very clear dogs are not allowed on the beach.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
1.08mi
Distance
136ft
Elevation Gain
122ft
Elevation Loss
20%
Max Grade
396ft
High Point
250ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
Starting from the public parking lot on East Bay Road (restrooms available) the trail ascends a set of stairs. From the stairs, there is a very steep dirt path that is dotted with trees to help less experienced hikers. It is this section only (and it's very short--just steep) that would be considered "Intermediate" in difficulty, but once you reach the top, you are at the top of the bluffs. There are typically 2 parallel paths for most of the trail--one right along the cliff's edge (with signs warning that the edge may be unstable) and one 20 feet farther back in the woods. These paths will merge and diverge very frequently. From the initial ascent along the bluffs themselves, the path is very flat. As you come to the end of the bluffs, the path will gradually descend to 8-10 feet above the lake and continue all the way to the park. Since there are other trails in the park, you can make your own hike by combining them. If you are only hiking the Bluff Trail, it is recommended to drop down to the beach in any one of a number of openings and paths along the shore and make the return hike along the rocky shore. It's a flat hike back, but the shifting gravel, stones, and downed trees on the beach require some dexterity to maneuver. But, looking up at the bluff you were on top of a short while ago makes it worth it!

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Andy P