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New York
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New York State Parks

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USA Parks
New York
Finger Lakes Region
Danby State Forest
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DANBY STATE FOREST
DANBY STATE FOREST
Danby State Forest, located in upstate New York, is a serene and breathtaking sanctuary nestled within 7,337 acres of pristine wilderness. Offering a delightful escape from the bustling city life, this enchanting forest embodies striking beauty and tranquility. With its dense woodlands, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, Danby State Forest is a nature lover's paradise. Hikers can navigate through its extensive trail network, exploring hidden waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and dense groves of towering trees. The forest also provides ample opportunities for camping, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the captivating sights and sounds of the natural world. Whether one seeks solitude or a memorable outdoor adventure, Danby State Forest ensures an unforgettable experience in the heart of upstate New York.
History of the Area
In the early 19th century, the area surrounding Danby was primarily settled by European immigrants who cleared the land for agricultural purposes. However, by the mid-1800s, soil erosion became a major concern due to deforestation and unsustainable farming practices. As a result, the state of New York initiated the reforestation of the area to mitigate erosion and promote sustainable land use.

In 1924, the state of New York acquired the land that would later become Danby State Forest. Over the next several decades, the state invested in reforestation efforts and began managing the forest for multiple purposes, including timber production, wildlife habitat conservation, and recreational activities.

During the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a significant role in the development and maintenance of Danby State Forest. CCC workers built trails, roads, fire lanes, and recreational facilities, leaving a lasting impact on the forest's infrastructure.

Danby State Forest covers approximately 7,337 acres and offers various recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, hunting, and camping. The forest features a network of trails, including the 16-mile-long Finger Lakes Trail, which passes through the area.
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Trails
1. Abbott Loop Trail: This is a moderate, 5-mile loop trail that offers scenic views of the forest and wildlife sightings. The terrain varies from flat to hilly with some steep sections.

2. Finger Lakes Trail: A part of this long-distance hiking route passes through Danby State Forest offering challenging hikes over rugged terrains for experienced hikers.

3. Michigan Hollow Road Trails: Located on the eastern side of the state forest, these trails offer easy-to-moderate difficulty levels suitable for beginners or families looking for short day trips in nature's lap.

4. Bald Hill Road Trails: These are multiple interconnected trails accessible via Bald Hill road entrance providing varying degrees of challenges depending upon your chosen path within them; they also connect to other regional routes like North Country National Scenic Trail.

5. West Branch Nature Preserve Hiking Route: An approximately two miles out-and-back hike located near Willseyville featuring beautiful wild flowers and good bird watching opportunities.

6. Jennings Pond Spur: It's an offshoot from main Finger Lake trail leading towards picturesque Jenning pond area which can be used as picnic spot during summers or ice skating rink during winters after proper freezing conditions have been met.

7. Tamarack Lean-To Access Pathway: Short but important pathway connecting Tamarack lean-to camping site with rest parts making it easier access point especially when carrying heavy backpacks overnight stay at campsite.

8. Danby Mountain Footpath: This footpath leads you up till summit ridge line where one gets panoramic view surrounding areas including Cayuga lake far distance clear days.

9. South Danby Rd Connector: Another connector type pathway linking south end park boundary residential roads nearby houses thus serving local residents well their recreational needs.

10. Thatcher Pinnacles Climb: For those seeking more adventure challenge there Thatcher pinnacles climb involving rock scrambling reaching top pinnacle formations giving unique perspective entire region below.

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Area Campgrounds
Pine Creek Campground
28 Rockwell Road
Newfield, NY
607-273-1974
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Newfield Rod & Gun Club Inc
156 Stark Rd
Newfield, NY
(607) 564-7595

Directions
1. Start by heading south on I-81 S from Syracuse.
2. Continue driving for approximately 40 miles and take exit 8 toward NY-79/Whitney Point/Lisle.
3. Merge onto NYS Route 26 South/NY-11A E via the ramp to Whitney Point/Binghamton.
4. After about half a mile, turn left onto US-11S/Main St (signs for Binghamton).
5. Drive straight for around 6 miles until you reach an intersection with traffic lights at Main Street and Court Street in Lisle.
6. Turn right onto NY-79 W/Cortland Rd and continue following this road for approximately 20 miles as it takes you through Richford towards Spencer Village Center Road/South Hill Terrace Road/Tompkins County Rte #10B/Danby Rd/Old Rt #96B (all names refer to the same road).
7.Continue along Tompkins County Rte #10B/Danby Rd/Old Rt#96b until you see signs indicating the entrance of Danby State Forest.

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New York
11

New York State Parks

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