FLT Watkins Glen to Sugar Hill

Starting from the Lower Entrance of Watkins Glen State Park, this section of the Finger Lakes Trail heads west through striking gorge terrain and dense hardwood forest. The route climbs gradually out of the park, leaving the developed trail system behind and entering more remote terrain, including private lands under conservation easement. Around a short distance from the trailhead, hikers encounter their first stream crossing and a sustained ascent into the glaciated hills of Schuyler County. Continue past several trail junctions, staying on the white-blazed Finger Lakes Trail as it passes occasional road crossings and sections of forest with seasonal water sources. As the route enters Sugar Hill State Forest, the terrain becomes more rolling, with stretches of soft singletrack under canopy cover. Designated campsites and lean-tos offer overnight options for backpackers. Near the end of the route, a spur leads to the Sugar Hill Fire Tower—a worthwhile side trip for sweeping views across the western Finger Lakes region. Wildlife sightings are common throughout, and hikers should be prepared for muddy sections in spring and insects in the warmer months. This route rewards strong hikers with a full-day push or makes an ideal short overnight in New York’s Southern Tier.