FLT Trail Conditions

Finger Lakes Trail Condition Reports

The Finger Lakes Trail Conference (FLTC) is providing these Trail Condition Reports from data supplied by persons hiking or maintaining the trail. Reports are based on their interpretation of a trail condition which may change after their report is received. We list the date the condition was observed and who submitted the report.

The condition reports are listed by MAP NUMBER from west to east. (Some reports overlap- please check the maps on both sides of your map of interest.) Main Trail is first, followed by Conservation Trail, Letchworth Branch, Bristol Hills Branch, Queen Catharine Marsh Loop, Montour Falls Historic Loop, Interloken, and Onondaga Trails.

Trail Condition Reports from users may be made to Irene Szabo at treeweenie@aol.com, 585-658-4321, being as specific as possible as to the location of the problem. Use map number(s), access points or mileage points to locate the problem. Describe the problem clearly. If direction of travel is important in observing the problem (such as blazing) please include the direction you were traveling on the trail.

Click on the small map numbers to jump immediately to that map. Numbers which appear in ORANGE are maps which have HUNTING CLOSURES. Please check the listing for detailed information

M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6 M7 M8 M9 M10 M11 M12 M13 M14 M15 M16 M17 M18 M19 M20
M21 M22 M23 M24 M25 M26 M27 M28 M29 M30 M31 M32 M33
CT1 CT2 CT3 CT4 CT5 CT6 CT7 CT8 CT9 CT10 CT11 CT12
L1 L2 B1 B2 QCMLT MFHLT I O1 O2

MAIN TRAIL
M1 / CT1
10/24/07	Cheryl Peluso - Map M1/ CT1 A reroute of the trail in northern Allegany State Park is now complete. This reroute is 0.9 miles long and replaces 1.4 miles of old trail, thus shortening the trail by half a mile. The new trail is much nicer as it is dry and winds through nice hardwoods. It replaces longer hillier trail that had wet sections with stinging nettles. Clearing the new trail was done by Cheryl Peluso, Annette Brzezicki, and Nick Scarano of the Foothills Trail Club. The map has been updated with a revision date of 10/07.

M2 / CT2
There are no condition reports at this time

M3 / CT3
10/2/08	Dave Potzler - Map M3/ CT3 Ellicottville area: the Holiday Valley Ski Area is hosting a competitive archery event August 21, 22 (Thurs, Fri) which would endanger hikers on our trail, so the trail there will be closed for only those two days, necessitating a road walk around that hilltop westward on Mutton Hollow Rd and north and east on NY 242. Signs will be in place soon.
6/16/08	Irene Szabo - Map M3/ CT3 Ellicottville area: the Holiday Valley Ski Area is hosting a competitive archery event August 21, 22 (Thurs, Fri) which would endanger hikers on our trail, so the trail there will be closed for only those two days, necessitating a road walk around that hilltop westward on Mutton Hollow Rd and north and east on NY 242. Signs will be in place soon.
5/17/08	Howard Beye - Map M3/ CT3 Trail from Access 8 (Poverty Hill Rd.) to Cotter Rd. is closed for hunting May 1 - 31 and Oct. 10 – Dec. 21. To bypass, from west to east: north on Poverty Hill Rd., east on Lindberg Rd, south on US 219, then northeast on Cotter Rd. Map has been updated with revision date of 5/08.
9/28/07	Mary Domanski - Map M3/ CT3 Trail from Access 11 (Brennan Rd.) to Access 12 (NY 240) is closed for hunting Oct. 13 – Dec. 9. Use Brennan Rd., NY 242, and NY 240 to bypass. Map has been updated with revision date of 9/07.
10/24/06	Mary Domanski- Map M3/ CT3 The section between Cotter Road and Irish Hill Road is closed for hunting during Oct.15-Dec.20.
12/12/06	Mary Domanski- Map M3/ CT3 The trail through the Holimont and Holiday Valley areas has been reopened. The building of the retaining pond is complete and the trail has been located to it's original place. It is blazed and ready for hiking.
5/23/06	Mary Domanski- Map M3/ CT3 Route 219 and just west. This section of trail scales a steep ravine wall. A great deal of logging has been done here obliterating much of the trail. Watch for temporary blazes. A ladder remains in place to help the hiker scale one section. A rope has been added. A new road has been bulldozed to the top of the ravine. This has particularly damaged any sign of trail near the top of the ravine. Just know that the trail is at the top of the ravine and head for the place where the road meets the top. Once at the top if heading west turn left to find the trail. If heading east notice the posted signs as a signal that the new road is nearby. Cross the new road and turn right to head down the ravine. Plan your hike accordingly as you will need extra time on this section.
9/25/05	Mary Luger- Map M3/ CT3 Just southwest of Access Point 7 (Maples Ellicottville Rd): Logging on this very steep section makes hiking conditions difficult; blazes hard to follow.
5/28/04	Allan Stocker- Map M3/ CT3 The trail on Plum Circle Road has been rerouted. Instead of leaving Plum Circle Road at Ridge Road the trail now goes about 0.3 mile further north on Plum Circle Road the leaves road on right to soon rejoin original route heading east. Changes made to map and to description.

M4
6/27/07	Ron Navik- Map M4 Landowner requests that no one park in either his driveway where the trail goes south off NY Route 98 (Traveling eastward on trail) or in any of the adjacent land which he also owns and has POSTED. His business (Zuech's Environmental Services) has many large truck going in and out of his property. The nearest off road parking is at Access Point 4 near the corner of NY Route 16 and Bear Creek Road.
8/29/05	Mary Domanski- Map M4 mile 16.0: DO NOT PARK IN THE DRIVEWAY (or in the fields either side of the driveway) where the trail goes east from NY Route 98. This is 8322 Route 98. The landowners also do not want camping on their land (east of this point). The best parking is 0.7 miles west of here on the shoulder of Bear Creek Road near NY Route 16.

M5
1/17/08	Pat Monahan - Map M5 There has been a reroute of the trail east of Stebbins Rd. in Bush Hill State Forest because of a clear-cut. The back of map description now reads: 5.2 Left onto all-season Stebbins Road (2040'); decent shoulder parking. Quick right off road in 200' into..., 5.5 Left just before clear-cut area., 5.6 Right on Stebbins Rd., 5.8 Right back into woods just after clear-cut area., 5.9 Left into deep woods spruce., 6.1 Back to Stebbins Road; turn right... All subsequent mileages increase by 0.2 mile. Front of map now shows new track and new revision date of 1/08.
9/6/07	Ruth Dorrough - Map M5 On September 2, while hiking on Williams Road we were accosted by two angry, unrestrained dogs that ran off of the property at 9100 Williams Road. I was bitten by one of them and am in the process of following up with the Allegany County Health Department. Note from Howard Beye: Please be careful in this and on other road sections primarily in front of houses that dog(s) may accost hikers. If you are hiking in such areas it may well pay to investigate the use of a high frequency device, which when activated normally will cause dogs to back off.
6/29/07	Rom Abraham, DEC Senior Forester - Map M5 A softwood timber harvest is in progress on the Swift Hill State Forest. Sale area is just south of the Finger Lakes Trail where it leaves Rushford Road between access points 5 and 6. The log landing will be on the north side of the trail at the small parking area next to the wooden "Swift Hill State Forest" sign. The harvesting equipment will be crossing the trail at just one location. The contractor plans to corduroy his crossing with poles to protect the trail surface. As part of the sales contract, after harvesting is completed the contractor will be enlarging the parking area to 60' by 60', with 12" of gravel underlaid with geotextile cloth. Hikers will not need to detour, but be alert at the trail crossing location. The harvesting is all mechanical, with no skidding. Logs will be hauled out on a fowarder.

M6
There are no condition reports at this time

M7
There are no condition reports at this time

M8
9/22/07	Ron Navik- Map M8 At the request of several landowners the trail will be closed each year for hunting between October 13 and December 15, and May 1 to May 31. Closed sections are located beginning about 1/2 mile to the east of Fox Hill Road and extending to near Swain Hill Road. Signs have been placed at Fox Hill Road, Delude Hill Road and Swain Hill Road and at the boundaries of the property indicating the closed periods. Through hikers can by-pass the closed trail (traveling east) by continuing south on Fox Hill Road, turning left on Snyder Road, turning left on French Hill Road, continuing straight on Delude Hill Road, left then quickly right on Chautauqua Hollow Road for 0.1 mile east to reach NY Route 70. Turn right on NY 70 and follow to County Road 24. Turn right and pick up the trail in Swain, NY at Mill Street turning left to head east out of town. Trail closing notice will be placed on map M8.
9/28/06	Ron Navik- Map M8 Thanks to the Bossard's and refurbishing work done by the Genesee Valley Hiking Club a cabin is now available for use by backpackers on map M8 between Access Points 4 and 5. The map has been updated and here is how it now reads with this insertion at the 12.0 mile mark: 12.0: Bossard's Cabin with a soon to be installed outhouse is available for backpackers. Eastbound follow blue blazes 0.1 mile west where the main FLT turns left (east). Note: Cabin may not be available Oct. 15 - Dec. 15 due to use by landowner's family for hunting. Water is not available at the site; it must be brought from creeks about 0.3 mile west or 1.0 mile east of cabin. Treat or filter water.
7/1/02	Dave Maker- Map M8 Bears have been sighted several times recently in the Swain area, including reports of a mother with cubs. Backpackers should be sure to hang food in trees away from campites.

M9
11/10/08	Irene Szabo- Map M9 on the dead-end spur from Webb Rd south and west across Fitzgerald Rd, toward the shelter in the Steuben County forest, there is a tree harvest going on between Fitzgerald and county land that is obliterating the trail temporarily. Trees of low timber value are being chipped up for paper and stove pellets, so until the trail stewards get in there to install marker posts, it may be impossible to follow the trail for a short while. The route will be marked as soon as possible this winter.
11/6/07	Howard Beye- Map M9 Access 1- Landowner requests the blue gate near the top of the hill going south from Slader Creek Road (CR 13C) be left as you found it, either open or closed. Sometimes the cows are kept in the upper pasture, and sometimes they have to go through the gate to the lower pasture, and the creek.
11/10/04	Ron Navik- Map M9 Trail closed by landowner during hunting seasons Oct 1 to Dec 31 (Deer) and May 1-31 (Turkey) between Stearnes Rd. and Bishopville Rd. East of Bully Hill State Forest. When trail is closed and coming from the West, take Stearnes Rd. South .9 miles, go left .9 miles on Karr Valley Rd., then left 1.2 miles on Bishopville Rd. Reverse directions when coming from the East.
2/26/01	Ron Navik - Map M9 The section from Wilson Karr Road (just off Bishopville Road north of access 14) to Fitzgerald Road (access 15) has been closed permanently by the landowner. Hikers should follow (west to east) Wilson Karr Road north, turn right on Bishopville Road, right again on Penn Hill Road, which becomes Webb Road. The trail can be accessed to the left off Webb Road at the cemetery, about a quarter mile past Fitzgerald Road. Total distance on the road is approximately 3 miles. The Kanakadea Lean-to is no longer accessible from the west. It can be reached from Fitzgerald Road on the east, but backpackers will have to backtrack approximately 1.5 miles to Fitzgerald Road rather than hiking through.

M10
9/29/08	Ken Reek and Terry Meacham - Map M10 Because of a lost landowner permission, the Finger Lakes Trail in N. Hornell at mile 0.9 no longer goes up the driveway to the EconoLodge (and over the hill), but instead continues south on Seneca Rd N for 0.7 miles, and then turns left on CR 70A rejoining existing trail after an additional 0.9 mile. New trail (this used to be the blue hunting bypass) has been blazed white, and the old trail has had the white blazes blackened out. Map M10 will soon be revised with a new revision date of 10/08.
6/17/08	Irene Szabo - Map M10 between Hornell and Howard, recent bear sighting on trail south of NY 70A.
4/30/08	Paul Smith - Map M10 Heading east, to the east of Access 5, and especially in the vicinity of Cunningham Creek Rd., very active logging is underway. Logging equipment has disturbed the trail in several places and some sections (particularly near the base of the hill east of Cunningham Creek Rd.), are likely to be extremely muddy and slippery if it rains. As of this date, the trail was passable, but the logging area is likely to be expanded. Caution and extra time are advised.
8/2/07	Kim & Terry Meacham - Map M10 From west to east: Upon reaching Cunningham Creek Road at mile 8.1, turn right (south) for 0.1 mile. Then turn left uphill on an ATV track. After 0.2 more miles leave ATV track on left following pleasant berm. After 0.2 more miles cross under power line, downhill, and soon right on logging road. In 0.4 more miles rejoin old trail heading northeasterly. 0.9 mile of new trail replaces 0.7 mile of previous trail that was mainly on road. Trail is blazed and map M10 has been updated.
9/25/05	Kim Meacham - Map M10 Trail from Access Points 2 to 3 has been reopened with a small reroute just west of NY 70A. From top of hill eastward be careful to follow blazes as ATV trails and old trails intersect. NOTE: Trail is closed for hunting from the second week in Oct. to the third week in Dec.; use blue blazed road walk south on Seneca Rd North, then east on NY 70A.
10/3/03	Kim & Terry Meacham, and Don French - Map M10 Access 4 to 5...When you reach Lower Glen Ave, turn RIGHT INSTEAD of left, walk along road for short distence. Turn LEFT into woods. Follow trail through woods and then along hay field, with spectacular views. At end of hayfield turn LEFT at Turnpike road. Follow road short distance and cross Turnpike to the RIGHT at junction with Lain Road. Green Steuben county FLT sign is present. Walk along Lain Road until FLT leaves to the left after hilltop at end of ABC Ranch electric fence. The new route is 0.2 mile longer than former route. Map and description have been changed.

M11

6/21/08

Gary Haff and Lynda Rummel - Map M11 Trail Closing Heading east, the trail is now closed across the eastern-most property in the stretch between Cochrane Rd. and Knight Settlement Rd., at the request of the new landowner. The new landowner's property adjoins Knight Settlement Rd; consequently, hikers can no longer hike through from Cochrane to Knight Settlement Rd. The off-road trail can still be hiked between Cochrane Rd. and the interior boundary of this new landowner's property; however, hikers must respect the new landowner's wishes and turn around and retrace their steps once they reach the new landowner's property line. Long-distance hikers heading east should stay on Cochrane Rd. until it T's with Knight Settlement Rd., then turn left and follow Knight Settlement Rd. north to 415 and thence to off-road sections of the trail. Hikers heading west should continue southwesterly on Knight Settlement Rd., then turn right on Cochrane Rd. and head north and then west. No further information is available at this time.

M12
10/25/04	Irene Szabo - Map M12 One trail-walk mile east of Winding Stair Road, where the trail comes out of woods onto the old abandoned lane that was Longwell Rd begins the property newly owned by a hunter who wants the TRAIL CLOSED between October 15th and Dec. 21st, yes, all the way through archery, gun, and musket seasons, and for the whole month of May. Dang. There are large and vivid signs at Winding Stair, and at both ends of his actual property. Coming from the east, walking westward, the property begins where active Longwell Rd ends at the owner's house.
5/29/04	Thomas Noteware - Map M12 A new spur trail has been opened between the FLT/NCT on Mount Washington from the bivouac area down the hill to the Glenn Curtiss Museum located on NY Route 54. The 1.24 mile trail has been named the June Bug Trail in recognition of the contributions of Glenn Curtiss to early naval aviation in the United States. Changes made to map and to description.

M13
10/7/08	Lynda Rummell - Map M13 In Birdseye Hollow State Forest, north of Dumack Rd., along the west side of the FLT, foresters from the DEC's Bath Office have developed an acre-sized plot to test techniques for growing harvestable trees. Trees touching the crowns of red and white oaks (flagged with blue tape) will be trimmed back. Please do not remove the orange flagging tape that marks the boundaries of the plot.
10/7/08	Lynda Rummell - Map M13 A small red pine plantation along the east side of Aulls Rd. (south of Dumack Rd.) in Birdseye Hollow State Forest is scheduled to be logged. The logging should not affect the trail (except possibly where the trail crosses Dumack Rd.); however, there is likely to be large heavy equipment in the area, and hikers are cautioned that equipment operators will not be able to see the trail or trail users at all times. PROCEED WITH CARE, DO NOT STRAY FROM THE TRAIL, AND KEEP YOUR DOG ON THE TRAIL WITH YOU.
10/7/08	Lynda Rummell - Map M13 As a result of having cut back both sides of Rhinehart Rd. into state land prior to receiving permission, the Town of Urbana will be building a 3-car parking area on the north side of Rhinehart Rd. (on the east side of CR 96, Birdseye Hollow Rd.). The parking area will be just north of the trail crossing. The trail crossing is now cleared, although several trees remain down across the trail.
9/26/08 - UPDATED! 10/7/08	Lynda Rummell - Map M13 Three segments of trail between Access 4 (South Bradford) and Access 5 (Monterey/Sexton Hollow Rd.) in South Bradford State Forest have been rerouted. The first relocated segment is between South Bradford and the Moss Hill lean-to, where the trail has been moved off badly eroded sections of the old road. Heading east, park near the end of the asphalted part of Moss Hill Rd. (You can park on the side of the road -- just leave enough room for vehicles to pass by, do not block any parked trailer or vehicle, and do not block any driveways). Follow Moss Hill Rd. south, onto private lands. Stay on the old road bed and pass around the right side of the yellow gate. Shortly after crossing into state land (So. Brad. SF), ascend hill and watch for the reroute to begin, on left. From that point on, follow fresh white blazes. At bottom of hill, return to old trail. Pick your way across wide pile of rocks carried onto trail by flash flooding (9/28/08 - 4" rain). Cross drainage (more rocks!), turn left several hundred feet later, and descend to creek on dirt/stone ramp. Angle downstream, climb up opposite bank at first good opportunity, then move away from creek and follow top of gravel ridge to puncheon that bridges to old trail/roadbed. All blazed, but may be difficult to follow. Continue on old trail (old roadbed) till new trail veers off to your left. Relo returns to the old trail periodically, but also covers a lot of new (and much drier) ground. New outhouse roof and seat installed at shelter.. The second relocated segment is between Dennis Rd. east to the creek at the bottom of the hill. Eight switchbacks have been built, to handle the steep slope. Switchbacks all okay, but crossing area at this creek also damaged by recent flash flooding. From Dennis Rd. heading east, follow the existing trail across the flat top and then descend till you encounter the new section. New section is freshly blazed white; old section has been blocked off. The third relocated segment is between the creek at the bottom of the hill (east of Dennis Rd.) and Monterey/Sexton Hollow Rd. From the creek heading east, follow the existing trail till you encounter the new section (old trail going off to your right has been blocked off). New section follows pasture edge, then turns left and goes through older logged area, then turns right to head towards the trailhead, running parallel with Monterey/Sexton Hollow Rd. New section rejoins old just before parking area. Thanks to the ADK Professional Crew for doing a fantastic job on two of these relo's, and to an RTP grant for partially funding the crew. (Note: Don't be alarmed by tire tracks you may see on the trail -- they are from my Kawasaki Mule, which was a DEC authorized service vehicle for these projects.)
6/12/05- UPDATED! 9/20/06- UPDATED! 5/1/08- UPDATED! 10/7/08	Lynda Rummel - Map M13 Once again, heavy rains and flash flooding have damaged Corbett Hollow Rd. Forest Ranger Bill Meehan reports that the road across the first culvert (just north of the obnoxious private property/private road signs) was damaged and may deteriorate. One of the landowners has placed a sawhorse or other temporary obstacle across the road. If you wish to drive through to Goundry Hill State Forest (6/10ths of a mile ahead), check the condition of the road at this culvert before you proceed. Forest Ranger Meehan also reports that the road across the big culvert by the beaver pond near the turnaround at the north end of the road can be walked across but is VERY rough so driving across may be problematic. If you wish to drive through to the turnaround circle, check the condition of the road at this culvert, too, before you proceed. Yes, there is a public right of way on Corbett Hollow Rd. through the private properties to Goundry Hill SF; however, do NOT leave the road until you get into the state forest. From the obnoxious signs north, Corbett Hollow Rd. is also a seasonal road; do not attempt this part of the road in a vehicle in winter and do not park off the road until you reach Goundry Hill SF. Remember that the trail was rerouted through this area several years ago. From the west, the trail now descends to Corbett Hollow Rd. shortly after the creek becomes visible below the trail, then turns left (north) to cross the creek via the culvert, and leaves from the east (right) side of the turnaround circle to enter the woods and climb Goundry Hill via a number of switchbacks. There are good bivouac sites around the turnaround circle. Hunters occasionally camp there as well.
1/24/07- UPDATED! 6/1/07- UPDATED! 5/1/08	Lynda Rummel - Map M13 Heading east, logging has been completed where the trail crosses Guerin Rd. (the gravel road to the gas well) atop Goundry (Buck) Hill, between Corbett Hollow Rd. and Goundry Hill Rd. Approximately 200 feet of trail has been affected by clear cutting red pine in which the Ips beetle was present. The trail is clear and easy to follow. Note that a second gate has been installed on Guerin Rd., to the right of the trail (to prevent vehicles from accessing the gas well). The trail passes between this new gate and another one, some distance to the left (N).
11/2/07- UPDATED! 5/1/08	Lynda Rummel - Map M13 Heading east, on the east side of Monterey/Sexton Hollow Road, approximately 0.5 mile of the trail has been moved northerly in order to avoid an access road associated with the drilling of a new gas well. The relocation is finished and easy to follow. The reroute starts from the original trail crossing, then swings away from the gas well access road, and then uses the new access road to cross a drainage before shortly rejoining the old trail. Signs have been posted at the trail head. Trail users can still park at the trail crossing, on the west side of Monterey/Sexton Hollow Road. The fresh "scar" of the access road is very visible, just a few hundred feet south of the trail head, but the road is completely obscured by trees for almost all of the relocation. Thanks to the DEC for laying out the reroute and supervising the rebuild. Gas well construction continues, so expect disruption and large construction vehicles in the area.
8/21/07	Joe Dabes - Map M13 From west to east: A 0.6 mile reroute to avoid natural gas drilling on both sides of Switzer Hill Rd. that was never GPSed has now been put on this map. At about mile 18.3 the new trail turns left (north) then east to turn left on Switzer Hill Rd. at mile 18.7. Go north 100 yards, then right (east) to cross badly eroded stream in 0.1 mile. Also a one mile mistake in previous map mileages shortens the distances from here east by 0.9 mile. Trail is blazed and map M13 has been updated.
2/1/07- UPDATED! 6/1/07	Lynda Rummel - Map M13 The trail has been rerouted into and out of Corbett Hollow. From the west, as the trail descends into the hollow and the creek below becomes visible, the trail turns sharply left and descends to Corbett Hollow Rd. (by two short switchback legs) just 0.2 miles south of the turnaround that’s at the north end of the road. Turn left and cross the culvert; continue along the right hand side of the turnaround, then head right across the drainage and enter the trees. From there, ascend Goundry (Buck) Hill on new trail (built summer 2006) that includes a number of switchback legs. The reroute completely eliminates the steep route that was coincident with the horse/snowmobile trail on the west side of Goundry Hill; and it eliminates about half a mile of trail on the west side of Corbett Hollow. Note that the bivouac site at the former road crossing is no longer accessible; but there are several tent sites and parking spots in the turnaround area at the end of Corbett Hollow Rd. Water from the stream must be treated. Corbett Hollow Rd. is a seasonal road; so to get to the trail crossing in winter conditions, park where the gas line crosses the road (by the obnoxious warning signs that falsely claim that the road is private) and walk about a mile north to the end. When passing through the private property, do not stray from the road. In winter, do not drive past the warning signs, as you will not be allowed to park on the private properties and the road is not plowed through the state forest. As you head north up Corbett Hollow, the trail coming in from the west will be on your left, just before you cross the culvert; the trail to the east will take off to your right, from the right side of the turnaround.
9/20/06- UPDATED! 6/2/07	Lynda Rummel - Map M13, M14 Between Sugar Hill Rd. and Schuyler Co. Rd. 22, the trail is sometimes difficult to follow because it passes along the edges of several crop fields and then crosses through woods that were disturbed by logging. Blazing is not particularly good, so follow these general directions: From the trail crossing at Sugar Hill Rd. (at "Yorski Oak"), head east by following a farm road for a short distance, then jog left, then pass through a strip of woods, then angle left across a "road" between the fields and turn right to follow along the north edge of hedgerow (walk at the south edge of the field), then turn left at the east side of the field and follow along the west side of another hedgerow (again, walk at the edge of the field) until you reach the register box. At the register box, turn sharply right, cross one more field by staying near the fence line on your left, and enter the woods.
5/10/06	Lynda Rummel - Map M13 Just east of Switzer Hill Road, the trail has been rerouted around logging debris. Heading east, follow the blazes to the edge of the creek; turn sharply right and go approximately 86 paces downstream to a point where the creek narrows and the bank allows access. Cross the creek and angle left to rejoin the original trail

M14
7/10/08 UPDATED! 10/13/08	Lynda Rummel - Map M14 The construction contractor working for Empire Pipeline (National Fuel Gas) has opened a pathway across the pipeline corridor that is just east of Van Zandt Hollow Rd. (The Empire Pipeline is the high pressure gas transmission pipeline that will run 70 miles, from Victor to Corning, when complete). The pathway cuts through the high shoulders of piled dirt that hikers have had to scramble over (on both sides of the corridor) and covers the 6-foot deep pipe trench that had to be negotiated. Our thanks to Empire Pipeline for responding immediately to our complaints. The trail's deplorable condition was brought to our attention by the property owner, who told us that the trail had been this way for over ten weeks. However, to the best of my knowledge, no hiker reported the disruption to our Trail Operations Office. Please remember that you are our eyes and ears out there -- Empire Pipeline responded immediately when I told them the FLT/NCT was completely obliterated by the pipeline corridor and the landowner was asking us to close the trail -- it took only a couple of hours to solve this major "hiker headache" and get the trail reopened. In addition, on the east side of the pipeline corridor, I brushed back the trail quite a bit, so hikers may move further away from the rim. Hikers -- please let us know if you encounter any further difficulties with this section of trail -- or any section of trail, for that matter. ljrassoc@roadrunner.com
6/21/08 UPDATED! 10/13/08	Lynda Rummel - Map M14 Logging operations to thin the red pine forest at Van Zandt Hollow Rd. have been completed. Please report any trail difficulties to the FLTC at gbavis@rochester.rr.com and to me at ljrassoc@roadrunner.com
6/4/06 UPDATED! 6/2/07 UPDATED! 10/7/07	Lynda Rummel - Map M14 The NYS DEC has installed a new water system at Sugar Hill, in the camping area around the Fire Tower. The water spigots are working again, so potable water is now available until winter. (Water can also be obtained from several ponds nearby, but must be treated.) The restroom building is not expected to be completed until summer, 2008; however, portapotties are available (again, until winter). One of the two old lean-to's has been taken down; the other old lean-to seems to be in reasonably good condition. There are two relatively new lean-to's and a new outhouse on the north side of old Sickler Road (Seneca horse/snowmobile trail), across from the trail to the pond (follow the blue-blazed connector trail from the FLTC).
9/3/07	Lynda Rummel - Map M14 The DEC is in the process of selling red pine on both sides of Maple Lane, near the trail crossing, due to confirmed mortality caused by the sirex woodwasp. (This is the first confirmed attack in Sugar Hill SF; another attack was found in South Bradford SF this year). Both thinning and clear-cut logging are planned. Harvesting is expected to start no earlier than the spring of 2008, and all operations are supposed to be completed by January 31, 2009; however, extensions may be granted. The contractor is required to keep the trail "passable" during operations and to brush back, remove slash, and re-mark the trail at the conclusion of the work or during periods when the sale is shut down for weather and ground conditions. Expect the area, especially along the trail on the east side of Maple Lane, to be disrupted: Trail blazes may be down and hikers will probably have to pick their way along the trail, during harvesting. For more information about the sirex woodwasp, visit: Forest Service Woodwasp info
9/20/06- UPDATED! 6/2/07	Lynda Rummel - Map M13, M14 Between Sugar Hill Rd. and Schuyler Co. Rd. 22, the trail is sometimes difficult to follow because it passes along the edges of several crop fields and then crosses through woods that were disturbed by logging. Blazing is not particularly good, so follow these general directions: From the trail crossing at Sugar Hill Rd. (at "Yorski Oak"), head east by following a farm road for a short distance, then jog left, then pass through a strip of woods, then angle left across a "road" between the fields and turn right to follow along the north edge of hedgerow (walk at the south edge of the field), then turn left at the east side of the field and follow along the west side of another hedgerow (again, walk at the edge of the field) until you reach the register box. At the register box, turn sharply right, cross one more field by staying near the fence line on your left, and enter the woods.
8/26/06	Lynda Rummel - Map M14The Buck Settlement shelter and outhouse have been completed and are ready for visitors. Both are located at the edge of a meadow dotted with tall black walnut and ash trees, .7 miles northeast of the trail crossing at Templar Rd. These facilities "replace" the Van Zandt Lean-to which the FLT now bypasses and are the only trailside facilities between the shelters at Sugar Hill and the Village of Watkins Glen. The shelter and outhouse were built by an AlleyCat crew and other volunteers during August.
11/6/05 UPDATED! 5/11/06	Lynda Rummel - Map M14 The trail will be closed for hunting from October 15 to December 21 and all of the month of May, from just east of Van Zandt Hollow Rd. east to the western edge of Watkins Glen State Park. Signs noting the closure and describing the bypass route have been posted at both ends of the closed section. During these time periods, please follow the "high water route" around this section of trail: From the west, head south on Van Zandt Hollow Rd., then east on Townsend Rd., then north on the blue-blazed park access road; at the trail crossing, turn right (east) and continue east through the state park. If you do go west from Watkins Glen SP to “Julie’s Crossing” at Townsend Creek, be aware that flooding has widened and rearranged the crossing. We have built several cairns to mark the way, but these, as well as blazes, may be moved or eliminated by future high water; and remember that you cannot cross the private property (northwest of Townsend Creek) to reach Van Zandt Hollow Rd. during the closure periods.

M15
9/10/08	Gary Mallow - Map M15 There is a new reroute in Texas Hollow State Forest that eliminates the short road-walk on Texas Hollow Road. Hiking west to east, come down the driveway on a private landowner's property to Texas Hollow Road. Continue straight ahead, crossing Texas Hollow Road (we used to turn right), and find the trail-head marked with FLT signs, new white blazes, and discs. Continue to follow new white blazes through mixed hardwood forest and some boggy areas, roughly parallel to the road, for 0.3 miles. The new reroute brings you out on the DEC driveway that leads from the road down to the pond. Turn left and continue to follow older white blazes on old established trail eastward, headed towards Newtown Road.
11/27/06	Tom Reimers - Map M15 The generous landowner on Rogers Hill (between Steam Mill Road and Carley Road) wants to alert hikers that there are two major events happening each summer near the Roger Hill Lean-to on his property. One is in the last week of July when the Land of the Senecas Muzzleloaders have their annual rendezvous. The second event is a World War II re-enactment during the second weekend in September. So, hikers should not feel that they have time-traveled back to the 1940s. The landowner emphasizes that the FLT and lean-to are always open during these events.
7/12/05	Gary Mallow - Map M15 A 50 yard shortcut through people's yards has been eliminated in Bennettsburg. Traveling from west to east, the FLT now follows Burnt Hill Road all the way until it terminates at Route 79. The trail turns left (east) and continues until it hits South Hill Road, where it continues as it has for years.
7/12/05	Gary Mallow - Map M15 The trail in Watkins Glen no longer follows Glen Creek. East bound hikers, at about mile 0.2 should stay on Tenth St, rather than turning right on N. Porter St. After two blocks on Tenth St the trail turns left on N. Magee St.

M16
7/18/08	Gary Mallow - Map M16 There is a new reroute in Robert Treman State Park, due to closure of an old road bridge suffering from infrastructure deterioration. Hiking west to east, cross Woodard Road and proceed straight ahead on the grassy service road. Note the stone monument on the left describing the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp that was located here during the Great Depression. At this point, take a sharp right turn and follow new white blazes through a brushy area along the Fish Kill Creek to a ford approximately 300 yards upstream. Ford the creek and follow new white blazes through brushy areas downstream approximately 300 yards, rejoining older section of trail. Continue eastward up the steep hill on switchbacks and onwards to Routes 13/34/96. New High-Water Alternative over Fish Kill Creek If water in Fish Kill Creek is too high to ford safely, return to the stone monument and take the blue-blazed/orange-blazed Old CCC Camp Spur Trail to the Old Mill in upper Treman State Park. Continue to follow the blue blazes along the parking area to the South Rim Trail. Follow blue blazes past the overlook and junction with a service road on your right. Soon after you pass the service road take a right turn off the South Rim Trail to connect with the main FLT, blazed white. At this point, the blue blazes end; turn left on the FLT and continue to follow white blazes eastward to Routes 13/34/96.
10/12/07- UPDATED! 5/27/087	Gary Mallow - Map M16 The off-road trail from Rumsey Hill Rd. to Trumbull Corners Rd. is now closed. From west to east at the intersection of Rumsey Hill Rd. and Connecticut Hill Rd., turn right (hikers used to turn left) and continue 0.6 mile until you reach the road's end at Trumbull Corners Rd. Turn left on Trumbull Corners Rd. and continue 0.3 mile to the parking area and follow the white blazes into the Stevenson Forest Preserve. The map has been updated with a revision date of 5/08. Total distance on this map decreases by 0.7 mile. Hikers are welcome to go off the main FLT and take a 0.2 mile side hike on the blue blazed dead-end trail in the Stevenson Preserve, a nature preserve owned by the Finger Lakes Land Trust. Be alert to signs indicating where the preserve boundaries exist, and please respect landowner requests by not crossing onto neighboring properties.

M17
4/10/07	Tom Reimers - Map M17 The Danby Grocery Store on NY 96B just north of Gunderman Road recently closed. There are now no stores open in the hamlet of Danby.
9/28/06	Howard Beye - Map M17 The west end of the orange-blazed Buttermilk Falls S. P. Spur Trail on M17 (from junction with main FLT to W. King Rd.) is closed for hunting from Oct. 13 - Dec. 15. Use Town Line, Sandbank, and W. King Roads to bypass this section. Map M17 has been updated for this closure.

M18
12/16/08	Gary Mallow - Map M18 New off road trail (2.4 miles) replaces a road walk of 3.9 miles between Blackman Hill Rd. and NY 79. This new trail is closed to hunting May 1 to May 31 and October 1 to December 20. Please do not violate these closings, and be sure to hike on marked trail only. Use Blackman Hill Rd., Level Green Rd., and NY 79 to bypass during the closings. From west to east, turn right on Blackman Hill Rd for 0.1 mile then left following east side of field. Proceed in a northerly direction to NY 79, turning right following existing trail. At the present time the route is still being cleared and groomed. It will not be blazed until spring 2009; follow flags until then. Also there is a short section of steep side hill that will be challenging for all hikers during the winter. "Benching" will not be completed until spring 2009. The map has been updated with a revision date of 12/08.
7/18/08	Gary Mallow - Map M18 There is a short reroute that takes the FLT off Shindagin Hollow Road a short distance on Map M18. Traveling eastbound: after coming down the steep hillside to Shindagin Hollow Road, turn left, cross the small brook and immediately look for blazes on the left, which will lead you through young hardwood forest for 0.09 miles until you come out to the road again. (This eliminates most of the road-walk). Cross the road and continue hiking straight ahead on the bridge over the creek, and further to Shindagin Lean-to and points east. Traveling west, after you cross the bridge and meet Shindagin Hollow Road, cross directly across the road (we used to turn left for a road-walk) and follow new signs and blazes through a young hardwood forest 0.09 miles until the trail brings you back to the road. Follow the road a short distance and watch for blazes and a small puncheon on your right, which takes you back into the woods, Braley Hill Road and points west.
8/18/05	Joe Dabes - Map M18 There is a 0.7 mile reroute on FLTC map M18 (near Caroline) required because of construction of a new house next to the trail in the field where the trail previously went north along a hedgerow. The new trail is now blazed and old blazes have been removed. Revised description below starts at mile 17.8: NY Route 79..... Turn right (east) along highway AND CONTINUE EAST PAST OLD TRAIL HEAD FOR 0.1 MILES......, 18.2: Leave NY Route 79 turning left (north) on Robinson Hollow Rd. Do not park here next to trailer park; cars may be towed. 18.5: Turn left (west) entering state forest on old DEC logging road and follow it uphill (1300'; limited off road parking). 19.0: Leave old DEC logging road forking right on narrow woods road (1550'). Add 0.3 miles to all mileages that follow. There is lots of parking at the snowplow turnaround at mile 17.8 (May to October) [this has been on the map description and still is] and offroad parking for 2 or 3 cars on the west side of Robinson Hollow Rd trailhead at mile 18.5.

M19
12/16/08	Joe Dabes - Map M19 The hunting closure between Lake Rd. and Daisy Hollow Rd. (Cortland County) has had the fall closure extended in time. The trail on Cotton Hanlon land is now closed May 1 to May 31 and October 1 to December 20. Use Willow Crossing and Daisy Hollow Roads to bypass during the closings. The map has been updated with a revision date of 12/08.
9/1/07	Joe Dabes - Map M19 From west to east from Daisy Hollow Rd to Bleck Rd: Six short reroutes have been completed since May 2007, either to get the trail off logging roads or put in switchbacks on steep grades. These range from 0.1 to 0.7 mile, and add 0.9 mile to the total distance of Map M19. The most recent is 0.3 mile after crossing Babcock Hollow Rd. Very shortly after entering state forest, turn right to avoid a very steep hill, entering private land. Soon after a very sharp switchback to the left, go gradually downhill to rejoin old trail after crossing a stone wall fence. This latest reroute has increased trail distance 0.2 mile, but a steep uphill and downhill and problematic briars have been eliminated. All reroutes are clearly blazed and map M19 has been updated.

M20
8/23/07	Rick Sutliff - Map M20 bout 1.5 miles from Hoxie Gorge going east toward Stone Road there are a lot of tree falls over the trail. The trail blazes are somewhat hard to follow going in this direction as well. Problems have been reported to ADK/ON for corrective action.
8/21/07	Tony Rodriguez - Map M20 From west to east: At the former mile 13.5 the main trail now follows the former blue blazed hunting bypass east for 0.3 mile, then turns left (north) across a field (follow stakes) with a great view to the east with picnic table at the top. Upon reaching the end of the field, turn left and follow edge of fields west and north to rejoin old trail. 0.6 mile of old trail has been replaced with 0.8 mile of new trail. Trail is blazed and map M20 has been updated.
2/1/07	Tony Rodriguez - Map M20 Hunting closure dates expanded. Trail from the blue hunting bypass trail west of Stone Road to Underwood Hill Road is now closed from Oct. 1 to Dec. 31. Eastbound: Hikers during hunting season should take the blue blazed trail 0.5 miles north of Hoxie Gorge State Forest east to Stone Rd, then north bearing right on Atkins Rd, then left (north) on the McGraw Marathon Rd, then right (east) on Baker Schoolhouse Rd for about a mile to the trailhead. Map M20 has now been updated.
1/17/07	Tony Rodriguez - Map M20 At the landowner's behest the trail on both sides of McGraw Marathon Road is closed. To continue east upon reaching Underwood Hill Road, proceed north 0.8 mile on that road, then south 0.7 mile on McGraw Marathon Road, then east 0.9 mile on Baker Schoolhouse Road to the trailhead. If traveling west proceed in reverse to the trailhead at Underwood Hill Road. Map M20 has now been revised to show this road walk.

M21
11/2/08	Tony Rodriguez - Map M21 There has been extensive logging in Cuyler Hill State Forest south of Stoney Brook Rd, including a clear cut on a short trail section on the approach to Randall Hill. This will require rerouting in the spring. Because of the recent wet snow there are also trees down on the approach from Stoney Brook Rd. This section can be bypassed by using Cortland Six Rd. There has also been logging on two other short sections, going north from Randall Hill Rd and west of Potter Hill Cemetery Rd.
4/22/03	Bill Coffin - Map M21 The bridge just to the west of the Taylor Valley Road has floated off its foundations. Crossing in normal flow levels should be possible but wet feet will likely occur.

M22
8/31/06	Joe Dabes - Map M22 ADK-Onondaga has completed a reroute that cuts the tedious 7 miles of road walk at the western end of map M22 in half. Now there is easy access to the Paradise Garden Lean-to. The total distance on this map is shortened by 0.7 mile. The main FLT now follows the Onondaga Trail north for 1.0 mi., Cuyler Hill Rd. north 1.1 mi., Lincklaen Rd. east 1.4 mi., Chenango CR 12C east 0.1 mi., CR 12 north 0.5 mi., and Madison CR 53 north to the new trailhead, which is 0.2 mi. north of the Madison Co. line. Junction with the orange-blazed 0.2 mi. side trail to the Paradise Garden Lean-to is 0.7 mi. ahead. The map has been updated (Rev. 8/06) and is now available from the FLTC Service Center.
5/2/03	Tony Rodriguez - Map M22 The trail has been closed between Stoney Brook Road and Paradise Hill Road because we have lost permission from the landowner on both side of County Road 12 (Lincklaen Road). This loss of permission has caused the closure of 5.6 miles of trail with a detour of approximately 6.7 miles of road walk. Some of the reasons for this loss is directly related to behavior of hikers who did not stay on the trail and in one incident had lunch sitting on bales of hay in one of the farmers out buildings. Please remember on private land to stay on the trail and not use or do things on private land as if it were a park or other public land. The suggested detour from west to east is as follows: At Stoney Brook Road turn Right and follow Stoney Brook Road for about 2.7 miles until reaching County Road 12. Turn Left on County Road 12 and follow about 0.5 mile until reaching County Road 12B on the right. Turn Right onto CR 12B and follow for about 1.9 miles until reaching Lincklaen Center. In Lincklaen Center continue straight on Paradise Hill Road about 1.6 miles until reaching trailhead on right in the Bucks Brook State Forest. Access to the Paradise Glen Lean-to can be had by following former FLT on the Left (west) side of Paradise Hill Road trailhead for about 1 mile.

M23
4/30/08	Ed Sidote - Map M23 The post office in East Pharsalia is open M - F 8:00 - 10:00 and 3:30 -5:00. Note that the hours given in the FLT End-to-End guidebook are wrong.
12/30/06	David Cook - Map M23 The Balsam Inn located in East Pharsalia has changed owners. The new telephone number is 607-647-9292. Also the First Time Market located across the street is closed.
4/26/06	Tony Rodriguez - Map M23 Anyone hiking across Elmer Jackson Rd. on M23 should be aware that the soil around the concrete abutment at the upper pond dam crossing has eroded creating a wide, deep, and dangerous crevasse. The trail is therefore temporarily rerouted to the lower dam crossing on Elmer Jackson Rd. Heading west to east, upon arrival at Elmer Jackson Rd. proceed south past the usual crossing to the lower dam site and pick up the trail on the east side of the pond. Hiking east to west cross at the lower pond dam before the usual crossing, then proceed north on Elmer Jackson Rd. past the usual crossing to the next trailhead.
9/15/05	Ed Sidote - Map M23 Trail from NY Rte 23 to Center Rd is now routed along Fred Stewart Rd; white blazes have been painted on this road and map updated.
8/19/05	Joe Dabes - Map M23 A new lean-to has been built by the NYS DEC, thanks to a grant secured by Ed Sidote, just south of Church Hill Rd. There is no side trail to this lean-to from the main FLT as yet. To access the lean-to from where the trail crosses Church Hill Rd, go west on this road for 0.3 mile, then turn left on rough truck trail just past fine crushed stone fill parking area with Wildlife Management Area signs on left -- this very nice lean-to is 0.2 mile to the southwest on this rough road. Water -- get it on the way (from 2 culverts you go over) from where you left the FLT as the stream below the lean-to is not very reliable.

M24
4/30/08	Ed Sidote - Map M24 The Outpost Restaurant on NY 220 near the FLT is under new management. The hours are now Tuesday - Sunday 5 PM until close.
8/28/04	Joe Dabes - Map M24 In E. McDonough the Country Store (100 yards west on Rte 220) has gone out of business. Also the ice cream store, 1/4 mile east (next to The Outpost Restaurant) has also gone out of business. The Outpost Restaurant is still in business (famous hamburgers) -- opens 12 PM Sat. and Sun, and 5 PM Tues. - Fri., closed Mon. Map description corrected.

M25
7/12/05	Edward Sidote - Map M25 The trail between Wilcox Rd and Basswood Rd has been (hopefully temporarily) closed. Eastbound hikers should at the junction of Wilcox and Basswood Roads (about mile 6.3) stay on Basswood Road. In 1/4 mile turn right on the FLT.

M26
5/10/07	Bruce Krizan - Map M26 Butts Road between Houck Drive and NY Route 8 has been closed to vehicle traffic because of two bridge problems. Hikers can still walk across the bridges at this time. We are trying to determine what is going to be done to fix the problem.
10/7/05	Jim DeWan - Map M26 The trail is closed for hunting from Oct. 15 to Dec. 20 for hunting by the landowner. Please detour using NY Rte 206 and Butts Rd. This landowner is very sensitive and we do not want to lose our trail across his land.
5/30/03	Jim DeWan - Map M26 Landowner located between Neff Hill Road and Houck Road has requested we close trail immediately. Trail blazes are being painted over and a limited number of blazes are being put up on Highland Acres Road, New Road and Houck Road to by pass closed trail. Contacts will be made with other landowner to see if an off road trail route can be reestablished.

M27
7/5/08	Joe Dabes - Map M27 If you purchased this map before the summer of 2007 please be aware that these old maps show Dunbar Rd connecting to NY 8 from near "Summit" on that map. This is not the case; Dunbar Rd ends at the eastern boundary of Arctic China State Forest.
8/31/04	Mike Gebhardt - Map M27 I'd like to announce the completion of the installation of a privy located at the Cold Spring lean-to, just west of Rt 8.

M28

5/21/05

Joe Dabes - Map M28 & M29 The trail has been removed from most of Beers Brook Road and has been re-blazed. On M28 at mile 11.7 turn R on Houck Mt. Rd. At mile 13.9 turn L on Tower Rd. After 1.3 more miles enter private land and follow FLT discs soon to enter Bear Springs W.M.A. and follow Horse Trail #7 and FLT disc blazes. Cross W. Trout Brook Rd. and continue on Fork Mt. horse trail (this is the FLT). This next section of 3.7 miles has also been more heavily marked with FLT discs. The total distance in this stretch has been reduced by 1.8 miles and there are great views from Houck Mt. Rd.

M29
7/12/05	Joe Dabes - Map M29 A reroute takes 0.3 mile of the FLT off of W. Trout Brook Rd and onto a blue horse trail in the south end of Bear Spring W.M.A. Eastbound: about 3.6 after crossing W. Trout Brook Rd (note the reroute of 5/21/05) take the left turn near the south end of Bear Spring W.M.A. onto a blue horse trail and emerge 1/4 mile later in a big DEC parking area near the junction of E. Trout Brook Rd and W. Trout Brook Rd. Then continue south and east on Trout Brook Rd.
5/21/05	Joe Dabes - Map M28 & M29 The trail has been removed from most of Beers Brook Road and has been re-blazed. On M28 at mile 11.7 turn R on Houck Mt. Rd. At mile 13.9 turn L on Tower Rd. After 1.3 more miles enter private land and follow FLT discs soon to enter Bear Springs W.M.A. and follow Horse Trail #7 and FLT disc blazes. Cross W. Trout Brook Rd. and continue on Fork Mt. horse trail (this is the FLT). This next section of 3.7 miles has also been more heavily marked with FLT discs. The total distance in this stretch has been reduced by 1.8 miles and there are great views from Houck Mt. Rd.

M30
6/11/08	Joe Dabes - Map M30 Much of the trail in the Catskills region is now quite difficult to hike, because of rugged terrain, lush and rapid growth (especially of briars), and sometimes infrequent maintenance. Note that these are very rugged mountains, not hills. So if you plan to hike these trails, take the following precautions: (1) Expect to hike in a day only 1/2 to 2/3rds of what you are capable of hiking on other FLT trails. (2) Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts and sturdy hiking boots (expect huge briars, many stinging nettles, and loose rocks). (3) Carry lightweight loppers and a bow or pruning saw, if possible, for briars and downfall. We thank all those that maintain these difficult trails. If you can help maintain these trails, please contact me at kabjnd@msn.com or Dave DeForest at deforeda@delhi.edu
7/4/07- UPDATED! 11/25/07	Tony Preus - Map M30 Access to the Finger Lakes Trail from the Campbell Brook trailhead on map M30 to the Balsam Lake Mountain parking lot and trailhead on map M31 was seriously disrupted by flooding in summer 2007, which washed out many roads and bridges in the area. While all roads are now currently open, including NY 206 between Downsville and Roscoe, some roads (Holiday and Berry Brook Road, in particular) still remain under reconstruction. Be sure to plan extra time for car shuttling in the Catskill region.

M31
6/11/08	Joe Dabes - Map M31 Much of the trail in the Catskills region is now quite difficult to hike, because of rugged terrain, lush and rapid growth (especially of briars), and sometimes infrequent maintenance. Note that these are very rugged mountains, not hills. So if you plan to hike these trails, take the following precautions: (1) Expect to hike in a day only 1/2 to 2/3rds of what you are capable of hiking on other FLT trails. (2) Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts and sturdy hiking boots (expect huge briars, many stinging nettles, and loose rocks). (3) Carry lightweight loppers and a bow or pruning saw, if possible, for briars and downfall. We thank all those that maintain these difficult trails. If you can help maintain these trails, please contact me at kabjnd@msn.com or Dave DeForest at deforeda@delhi.edu
7/4/07- UPDATED! 11/25/07	Tony Preus - Map M31 Access to the Finger Lakes Trail from the Campbell Brook trailhead on map M30 to the Balsam Lake Mountain parking lot and trailhead on map M31 was seriously disrupted by flooding in summer 2007, which washed out many roads and bridges in the area. While all roads are now currently open, including NY 206 between Downsville and Roscoe, some roads (Holiday and Berry Brook Road, in particular) still remain under reconstruction. Be sure to plan extra time for car shuttling in the Catskill region.
11/18/04	Edward Sidote - Map M31 The Little Pond State Campground is closed from shortly after Labor Day to a week before Memorial Day. No camping is allowed in Campground when Closed, violators will be arrested by DEC Forest Rangers.

M32
6/11/08	Joe Dabes - Map M32 Much of the trail in the Catskills region is now quite difficult to hike, because of rugged terrain, lush and rapid growth (especially of briars), and sometimes infrequent maintenance. Note that these are very rugged mountains, not hills. So if you plan to hike these trails, take the following precautions: (1) Expect to hike in a day only 1/2 to 2/3rds of what you are capable of hiking on other FLT trails. (2) Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts and sturdy hiking boots (expect huge briars, many stinging nettles, and loose rocks). (3) Carry lightweight loppers and a bow or pruning saw, if possible, for briars and downfall. We thank all those that maintain these difficult trails. If you can help maintain these trails, please contact me at kabjnd@msn.com or Dave DeForest at deforeda@delhi.edu.
6/18/03- UPDATED! 11/25/07	Ed Sidote - Map M32 Black Bear Road has been changed to Wild Meadow Road due to installation of 911 system. Basily Road off Wild Meadow Road is closed as there is a bridge out on this route. The northern end of Wild Meadow Road is private property; parking is not allowed by the landowner. Park in the NYS DEC parking area, found 0.4 mile before reaching the end of Wild Meadow Road on the east side of the road. Maps have been updated.

M33
11/30/07	Ed Sidote - Map M33 The Claryville General Store has moved 0.3 mile east to the former site of the Blue Hill Inn. The building was completely remodeled into a restaurant, deli, pizza parlor, with groceries, ice cream, etc. The FLTC trail Register notebook on windowsill of the store. Liquor license is pending. Also the motel behind the General Store is now open after being completely renovated. Map M33 has been modified to reflect this information.
6/18/03- UPDATED! 11/25/07	Ed Sidote - Map M33 Black Bear Road has been changed to Wild Meadow Road due to installation of 911 system. Basily Road off Wild Meadow Road is closed as there is a bridge out on this route. The northern end of Wild Meadow Road is private property; parking is not allowed by the landowner. Park in the NYS DEC parking area, found 0.4 mile before reaching the end of Wild Meadow Road on the east side of the road. Maps have been updated.

CONSERVATION TRAIL

CT1

10/24/07

Cheryl Peluso - Map M1/ CT1 A reroute of the trail in northern Allegany State Park is now complete. This reroute is 0.9 miles long and replaces 1.4 miles of old trail, thus shortening the trail by half a mile. The new trail is much nicer as it is dry and winds through nice hardwoods. It replaces longer hillier trail that had wet sections with stinging nettles. Clearing the new trail was done by Cheryl Peluso, Annette Brzezicki, and Nick Scarano of the Foothills Trail Club. The map has been updated with a revision date of 10/07.

CT2
There are no condition reports at this time

CT3
9/28/07	Mary Domanski - Map M3/ CT3 Trail from Access 11 (Brennan Rd.) to Access 12 (NY 240) is closed for hunting Oct. 13 – Dec. 9. Use Brennan Rd., NY 242, and NY 240 to bypass. Map has been updated with revision date of 9/07.
10/24/06	Mary Domanski - Map M3/ CT3 The section between Cotter Road and Irish Hill Road is closed for hunting during Oct.15-Dec.20.
12/12/06	Mary Domanski - Map M3/ CT3 The trail through the Holimont and Holiday Valley areas has been reopened. The building of the retaining pond is complete and the trail has been located to it's original place. It is blazed and ready for hiking.
5/23/06	Mary Domanski - Map M3/ CT3 Route 219 and just west. This section of trail scales a steep ravine wall. A great deal of logging has been done here obliterating much of the trail. Watch for temporary blazes. A ladder remains in place to help the hiker scale one section. A rope has been added. A new road has been bulldozed to the top of the ravine. This has particularly damaged any sign of trail near the top of the ravine. Just know that the trail is at the top of the ravine and head for the place where the road meets the top. Once at the top if heading west turn left to find the trail. If heading east notice the posted signs as a signal that the new road is nearby. Cross the new road and turn right to head down the ravine. Plan your hike accordingly as you will need extra time on this section.
9/25/05	Mary Luger - Map M3/ CT3 Just southwest of Access Point 7 (Maples Ellicottville Rd): Logging on this very steep section makes hiking conditions difficult; blazes hard to follow.
5/28/04	Allan Stocker - Map M3/ CT3 The trail on Plum Circle Road has been rerouted. Instead of leaving Plum Circle Road at Ridge Road the trail now goes about 0.3 mile further north on Plum Circle Road the leaves road on right to soon rejoin original route heading east. Changes made to map and to description.

CT4
6/16/05	Mary Domanski - Map CT4 ACCESS 3: DO NOT PARK ON KRUSE HILL RD NEAR THE DRIVEWAY ENTRANCE TO THE TRAIL. Park on Kruse Rd. This section of trail from the junction of the Finger Lakes Trail to access 3 is closed for hunting from May 1 - 31 and Oct 1- Dec 25.

CT5
There are no condition reports at this time

CT6
9/1/08	Mary Domanski - Map CT6 If hiking on Map CT6 between Vermont St. and Humphries Road be aware that some logging has taken place. The section is not long. Flagging has been put up. So follow the flags. Paint blazes can still be seen. The loggers should be done in 2 weeks. A clean up crew will come in and fill in the ruts on the logging road (they are huge due to rain). The clean up crew may not come until spring.
11/13/07	Mary Domanski - Map CT6 The trail from Vermont Street to Humphries Road has been closed by two different landowners for hunting from Nov. 1 - Dec. 20 and May 1 - 31. From south to north bypass this section by following Vermont St. northeast, Vermont Hill Rd. north, and Humphries Road west.
8/3/07	Lynda Rummel - Map CT6 The FLTC’s July Alley Cat crew rebuilt and/or relocated trail crossings in three of the steepest ravines between Vermont St. and Carpenter Hill Rd., northeast of Holland (including "Granddaddy," the worse of them all). They rebuilt or rerouted trail includes stairs and over 40 steps (some of which were cut out of solid shale!), plus a number of new switchbacks with grades of only 10-15%. These improvements follow on the work done on this section by participants in the Western NY Trail Building Workshop (held in early June) who improved one ravine crossing with switchback legs and began work on relocating another. This section of the Conservation Trail is managed by the Foothills Trail Club; as you hike the new ravine crossings without slipping, sliding or falling, please say a "thanks" to the many "Foothillers" who worked as crew members, provided dinners, or assisted in other essential ways – these major improvements could not have been done without them! Note: You are advised to take hiking sticks when hiking the Holland Ravines.
7/9/06	Mary Domanski - Map CT6 Access 6 Humphries Road: After crossing the bridge at the Mabel James sign turn left on Humphries Road. Follow the evergreen hedgerow walking on the new road construction. Just before the end of the hedgerow there is an opening on your right in the trees. The trail continues through those evergreens heading straight for the orange blaze on the hardwood directly ahead.
9/25/05	Mary Domanski - Map CT6 Access Points 1 to 2 (Allen Rd to Matteson Corners Rd): Trail is closed by landowner for hunting October to third week in December.

CT7
10/24/06	Mary Domanski - Map CT7 A reroute is complete between Bailey Road and Folsomdale. When reaching Bailey turn left and walk 0.4 mile. Turn right and walk inside the hedgerow following the orange blazes.
3/25/06	Mary Domanski - Map CT7 The trail between Old Big Tree Road and Bear Road is closed for hunting from Nov. 1 to Dec. 22.
8/2/05	Mary Domanski - Map CT7 Access 8 Clinton St (NY Rte 354) to Access 9 (Getman Rd). Be sure to follow all the blazes. An additional reroute has been made after crossing the metal bridge. The trail will basically follow the stream. Some bushwhacking may be needed for a few hundred yards.
6/16/05	Mary Domanski - Map CT7 ACCESS 8, CLINTON STREET (ROUTE 354): (PARKING: Please park on the shoulder of 354 near Schad.) This section has been recently re-routed. Do not walk north on Schad Rd. Instead turn right or east on 354 and walk 0.33 miles to a white house with a red garage. Route 354 is marked with orange blazes. Just past the garage turn left (north) down the drive and take an immediate right to follow the field edge. There is a yellow FLTC sign on the phone pole. The trail is clearly marked with orange blazes. Just follow the blazes to continue walking north.

CT8
6/27/07	Jacqui Wensich - Map CT8 Be on the lookout for a large amount of poison ivy between Access Point 4 Sumner Road and Access Point 5 Reynolds Road. It is all over the trail along farm road and trail into woods.

CT9
There are no condition reports at this time

CT10
There are no condition reports at this time

CT11
There are no condition reports at this time

CT12
There are no condition reports at this time

LETCHWORTH BRANCH

There are no condition reports at this time

L2
There are no condition reports at this time

BRISTOL HILLS BRANCH

B1
There are no condition reports at this time

9/29/08	David Marsh - Map B2 Between Access 7 and Access 8, tenting is no longer available at the former Kitzel residence on 3882 DeWolf Road. However, Water is still available for hikers from a hydrant 100 feet up the driveway of the now Colle home at this address.
10/10/06	Tom Noteware - Map B2 A small reroute has been made between access points 11 and 12. Instead of crossing Ford Road the map now reads (going north to south): Turn right (west) on Ford Road for 90 yards, then turn left continuing south on trail.

QUEEN CATHARINE MARSH LOOP TRAIL

QCMLT
3/3/08	Jay Zitter - Map QCMLT The 1.5-mile section of the QCMLT between Fairgrounds Lane in Watkins Glen south to NY 14 in Montour Falls is now open. The NYS OPRHP has replaced the rotting railroad bridge, and the trail has been widened to eight feet with a packed cinder surface. This section of the QCMLT is congruent with the Catharine Valley Trail, which is now open from Fairgrounds Lane in Watkins Glen south to Millport. Eventually the CVT will run for 14 miles from the Watkins Glen waterfront to Horseheads.
10/26/06	Jay Zitter - Map QCMLT The two mile portion of the QUEEN CATHARINE MARSH LOOP TRAIL that is on the abandoned Chemung RR rail bed has been closed indefinitely by State Parks as they prepare the roadbed to become part of the CATHARINE VALLEY TRAIL, a multiuse rail trail from Horseheads to Watkins Glen.
7/13/06	Jacqui Wensich - Map QCMLT The 0.4 mile portion of the trail (starting at mile 3.1) that ran along the levee tops is being abandoned due to uncontrollable weed growth on the fertile dredgings piled on the levee tops. Giant bull thistles taller than a human are no fun to hike through. The trail will now follow the 0.3 mile former blue blazed bypass trail along Marina Drive, which is in the process of having the blazes changed to orange. Also a new 0.2 mile blue blazed trail will travel east from where the trail used to ascend the levees to the east end of the "Willow Walk", creating a nice 1.0 mile loop.
11/1/04	Jay Zitter - Map QCMLT At mileage point 2.18 the trail to Aunt Sarah's Falls has been cleared and it has been blazed blue as a loop which passes by a very good observation point on the east side of NY Route 14. The loop continues to the left following Route 14 until rejoining the Orange Trail which leads to the Montour Falls Marina entrance road. Turn left off NY 14 on to entrance road. The quarter-mile section north of the Diversion Channel, mileage point 3.2, follows the top of a levee. That section is being bulldozed to raise the levee another six feet. The trail is passable, but most blazes are gone, and the footing in the loose soil is slow. Signs have also been installed at either end of the Watkins Glen Athletic Fields, so hikers will know how to circumvent the athletic fields which now block the old trail route.

MONTOUR FALLS HISTORIC LOOP TRAIL

MFHLT
3/24/06	Jay Zitter - Map MFHLT The bridge behind the Fire Academy is closed and barricaded. We have recently learned that it will not be repaired any time soon. So, at mile 4.53, take the 0.80 mile blue-blazed north on L'Hommedieu St., then west on NY 224, then south on College Ave. to rejoin the orange blazes on E. Main St. to avoid having to ford the Diversion Channel.

INTERLOCKEN TRAIL

I
There are no condition reports at this time

ONONDAGA TRAIL

O1
11/2/08	Tony Rodriguez - Map O1 There has been extensive logging in Morgan Hill State Forest on both sides of the power line north of Morgan Hollow Rd. This section can be bypassed by using Morgan Hollow Rd.
9/28/07	Mary Coffin - Map O1 n the last month or so a continuous 5.7 miles of new trail has been opened up on the northeast end of this map. This new trail starts at the NCT kiosk on the west end of the dam of Spruce Pond and runs just south of Onondaga One Road to cross Shackham Road. It then soon passes a cemetery and the dam of Shackham Pond and heads northerly to cross Onondaga One Road and then Rowley Hill Road. It then runs easterly to emerge on W. Keeney Road just north of Bardeen Road, where this map ends. NCT certification for uncertified sections will be applied for and Map O1 has been updated with a revision date of 10/07.
3/24/06	Tony Rodruigez - Map O1 Due to loss of landowner permission (he cited loose dogs and hikers wandering around the property) the trail has been rerouted onto roads from Chickadee Hollow Road (unsigned road off Morgan Hill Road) to W. Keeney Road. Traveling north to south, after reaching Chickadee Hollow Rd. (0.7 mi. after crossing a power line), turn north on Chickadee Hollow Rd. After 0.6 mi. on it turn left (south) for 2.8 miles on Morgan Hill Rd. until turning left (east) on NY 13. After 1.6 miles turn left (northeast) on W. Keeney Rd., traveling 1.2 miles to the now closed trailhead. Continue 0.1 mile to Tripoli Rd., turning right to pick up the existing trail.

O2
12/16/08	Mary Coffin - Map O2 Trail has been constructed in the Tioughnioga Wildlife Management Area, eliminating a long road walk. From west to east, in New Woodstock turn right on NY 13 and in 200' left uphill on Damon Rd. In 1.6 miles trail turns left (north) across field and creek on private land. After crossing creek trail turns right and soon enters Tioughnioga W. M. A. following its step like boundary north and east to Holmes Rd. (gated by DEC and closed to vehicles). Holmes Rd. is the junction with existing North Country Trail going north and east constructed by Central New York Chapter of the North Country Trail Association. The map has been updated with a revision date of 12/08.
12/16/08	Mary Coffin - Map O2 New trail (0.4 mi.) has been constructed between Stanton Rd. going east to Tromp Rd. (latter road not shown on earlier O2 maps, but is now) in DeRuyter State Forest. From Tromp Rd., to avoid 4+ miles of road walk, there is a short bushwhack option between Tromp Rd. and Fairbanks Rd.: If no logging is taking place east of Tromp Rd. follow orange flags (or compass or GPS unit) almost due east 1/2 mile to Fairbanks Rd. Turn left (north) about 1/4 mile to reach existing trail turning right (east) off Fairbanks Rd. The map has been updated with a revision date of 12/08.
9/28/07	Mary Coffin and Joe Dabes - Map O2 This is a brand new map showing the Onondaga Trail/NCT connecting to the Link Trail/NCT in the Tioughnioga Wildlife Management Area, where the NCT then heads northeast to the Adirondacks. The trail goes through Highland Forest County Park, DeRuyter State Forest, and private land. This is still a work in progress. At present on the eastern end there are some long road walks where trail still needs to be built in portions of DeRuyter State Forest and the Tioughnioga W. M. A. Most of the constructed trail is certified NCT and the revision date on the present map is 8/07. Present miles on this map are 20.2, but when the eastern road walks are eliminated the total distance will be about 15 - 16 miles.

If you have questions or comments about the reports, email or call Irene Szabo at treeweenie@aol.com, 585-658-4321

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