THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
The Adventure Collective®
Hammond Hill State Forest wilderness guide
State Forest · NY

Hammond Hill State Forest

Hammond Hill State Forest is an outdoor paradise in upstate New York, offering extensive trail systems for hiking, biking, and winter sports.

State Forest3,6184+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

3,618

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Hammond Hill State Forest

Hammond Hill State Forest is an outdoor paradise in upstate New York, offering extensive trail systems for hiking, biking, and winter sports.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Hammond Hill State Forest stretches across 3,618 acres in Tompkins County, New York. Known for its diverse ecology, the forest boasts hardwood stands and mixed spruce forests, which attract a variety of wildlife. Hammond Hill’s trails are a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts, providing opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The forest has a rich history, with early conservation efforts dating back to the Civilian Conservation Corps era, showcasing sustainable forest management practices. Visitors can explore its expansive trail network, including popular routes such as Chestnut Trail and Y1 Trail, which offer scenic vistas and connection to nearby networks like the Finger Lakes Trail. Hammond Hill is an appealing destination for those seeking outdoor recreation in a natural and tranquil setting.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Hammond Hill State Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Cross-Country Skiing at Hammond Hill State Forest near Ithaca, New York★ 7.0⌖ 2 miCross-Country Skiing
16-102 Hammond Hill Rd

Cross-Country Skiing at Hammond Hill State Forest near Ithaca, New York

Explore the serene trails of Hammond Hill State Forest near Ithaca, New York. Best suited for cross-country skiing in winter, this tranquil spot offers trails for all skill levels. Drive-in access and a peaceful winter environment offer a delightful experience for skiers looking for solitude.

Cross-Country SkiingView Details→
Hiking the Cayuga Trail★ 7.8⌖ 6 miHiking
1057-1061 NY-366

Hiking the Cayuga Trail

Explore the Cayuga Trail near Ithaca, New York, offering varied wildlife and scenic views over its moderate distance. This trail is ideal for hiking and birding, providing a chance for solitude in a serene environment.

HikingView Details→
Exploring the Finger Lakes: A 3-Day Itinerary from Ithaca, NY★ 8.2⌖ 9 miHiking
Ithaca

Exploring the Finger Lakes: A 3-Day Itinerary from Ithaca, NY

Explore the Finger Lakes with a 3-day itinerary featuring moderate hikes to iconic waterfalls in Ithaca, NY. Enjoy vibrant fall views and local wine tastings. Fall is the best season for photography and enjoying outdoor activities. Popular spots include Watkins Glen and Taughannock Falls.

HikingView Details→
Waterfalls and Wonder: Ithaca Falls★ 8.4⌖ 9 miHiking
Ithaca Falls

Waterfalls and Wonder: Ithaca Falls

Visit Ithaca Falls in Ithaca, NY, for a stunning 150-foot waterfall accessible by a short, easy trail. Perfect for photography and fishing enthusiasts, it's best enjoyed in spring or fall. Bring sturdy footwear for a safe and pleasant experience.

HikingView Details→
Running the Cayuga Waterfront Trail★ 7.0⌖ 9 miTrail Running
New York 13

Running the Cayuga Waterfront Trail

Explore this 4-mile loop trail in Ithaca, New York. Ideal for runners, the route offers scenic city and lakeside views. The trail is moderately busy, especially during the warmer months, and is perfect for soaking in natural beauty and local culture.

Trail RunningView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Chestnut Trail offers a serene hike with views of changing foliage in the fall.✦ The opportunity to spot wildlife such as white-tailed deer and various bird species.✦ Cross-country skiing is a favorite winter activity thanks to the snow-covered trails.✦ Y1 Trail connects to the expansive Finger Lakes Trail network, ideal for long hikes.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Hammond Hill State Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Hammond Hill State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access with no permits required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Hammond Hill State Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Dryden
⌖ 5.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dryden, New York

A quiet Finger Lakes town offering a mix of serene natural landscapes and accessible outdoor activities for all seasons.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Ithaca
⌖ 8.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ithaca, New York

A vibrant college town known for its waterfalls, gorges, and lakes ideal for outdoor adventures and natural exploration.

Spring and SummerExplore Town
Lansing
⌖ 14.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lansing, New York

A lakeside gateway with rugged trails and water adventures on Cayuga Lake, offering a blend of serene paddling and invigorating climbs.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Newfield
⌖ 14.10 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Newfield, New York

A quiet rural town offering lush forested landscapes and access to Finger Lakes trails, ideal for nature lovers seeking peaceful outdoor experiences.

Spring through Fall for most activities; Winter for snowshoeingExplore Town
Cortland
⌖ 14.68 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cortland, New York

A quaint town offering diverse outdoor activities with scenic landscapes and seasonal outdoor fun.

Fall and WinterExplore Town
Trumansburg
⌖ 19.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Trumansburg, New York

A peaceful Finger Lakes town offering serene landscapes and outdoor exploration opportunities among waterfalls and forests.

FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Hammond Hill State Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Fall Foliage Eco-CruiseIthaca, New York · 9.29 mi away
All Adventures· Discover Cayuga Lake

Fall Foliage Eco-Cruise

Discover the stunning fall colors from the water with the Fall Foliage Eco-Cruise on Cayuga Lake. This eco-friendly boat tour offers breathtaking views and in-depth local insights, perfect for an unforgettable autumn adventure.

2–3 hours

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.