Finger Lakes National Forest

Nestled in upstate New York, the Finger Lakes National Forest spans 16,000 acres of diverse terrain, combining lush woodlands with expansive pasture land. Encompassing woodlands, grasslands, and glacial lakes, its picturesque landscapes and well-maintained trails attract outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The forest’s five distinctive trails wind through the scenery, revealing stunning views of gorges, waterfalls, and panoramic vistas. The forest is also home to the celebrated Finger Lakes Trail, a long-distance hiking trail extending over 580 miles. Limited free primitive and roadside camping opportunities along the roads add to the allure, providing a chance to immerse in the natural beauty for longer periods. As the only national forest in New York State, it provides a unique space for relaxation, exploration, and immersion in the captivating landscapes of the Finger Lakes region.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finger_Lakes_National_Forest
http://www.fs.usda.gov/fingerlakes
http://www.cnyhiking.com/FingerLakesNationalForest.htm

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With the snow today I decided to stay around camp today, making baked garlic chicken tenders for lunch then reading for a few hours.

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With the snow today I decided to stay around camp today, making baked garlic chicken tenders for lunch then reading for a few hours. I thought the snow had stopped but it picked up again. It was pretty thorough. I didn’t want to drive on snow covered roads as all of the roads around Watkins Glen are very steep both going down and up.

Later on I went for a 5 mile evening / night walk along the Interlaken Trail, stopping several times for like 10 minutes to just sit and observe the woods, and followed some fresh and rabbit tracks until I came to the barbed wire of one of pastures and turned back to the trail. Hiked back after dark along Potomac Road which was very icy from the days 1-2 inches snow being compacted by car tires. I’m kind of glad I didn’t drive anywhere. Going to finally get above freezing tomorrow and I’m sure the town will sand the road by morning, like they did today before the snow squalls. I made pizza and cookies in the camp oven then had hot coca next to the fire until retiring to bed around nine.

Photo.2012.12.04 15.30.33