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High Tor Wildlife Management Area wilderness guide
Wildlife Management Area · NY

High Tor Wildlife Management Area

High Tor Wildlife Management Area is an expansive natural area in New York's Finger Lakes region, offering abundant wildlife viewing opportunities and diverse recreational activities.

Wildlife Management Area6,1003+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

6,100

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About High Tor Wildlife Management Area

High Tor Wildlife Management Area is an expansive natural area in New York's Finger Lakes region, offering abundant wildlife viewing opportunities and diverse recreational activities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

High Tor Wildlife Management Area encompasses over 6,100 acres in the Finger Lakes region of New York. The area is characterized by its varied topography, including rolling hills, dense forests, and wetlands. This diverse landscape supports a wide array of wildlife, making it a prime location for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons. High Tor also has a rich history connected to the Iroquois Indians and early European settlers, with several historical remnants scattered throughout the area. Renowned for its myriad recreational pursuits, High Tor is a popular spot for hiking, with several trails offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Fishing and hunting are also prominent activities, with several designated spots throughout the area. The area's natural beauty and tranquility make it an appealing destination for both day-trippers and those seeking extended outdoor adventures.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near High Tor Wildlife Management Area

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

Fishing in Canandaigua Lake★ 7.5⌖ 2 miFishing
7201-7121 State Rte 21

Fishing in Canandaigua Lake

Experience fishing on Canandaigua Lake, about a 1-hour drive from Ithaca, NY. Known for its clear waters and diverse fish species, this family-friendly spot offers a peaceful atmosphere and excellent photography opportunities. Best visited in spring and fall.

FishingView Details→
Hiking the Grimes Glen Waterfall Trail★ 7.5⌖ 4 miHiking
43 Vine St

Hiking the Grimes Glen Waterfall Trail

Explore the Grimes Glen Waterfall Trail near Naples, New York, a 1.5-mile out-and-back route easy for families and casual hikers. Best visited in spring or fall, enjoy stunning waterfalls. Remember to tread carefully on the wet, uneven terrain.

HikingView Details→
Mountain Biking at Bristol Mountain Bike Park★ 7.2⌖ 7 miMountain Biking
Bristol Mountain Ski Resort

Mountain Biking at Bristol Mountain Bike Park

Mountain Biking at Bristol Mountain Bike Park near Canandaigua, NY offers thrilling trails for adventure seekers, featuring a hard 1,600-foot descent. Accessible by car, this spot is best in Fall and is relatively quiet year-round. Recommended for experienced bikers.

Mountain BikingView Details→
Snowshoeing the Bristol Hills Trail near Ithaca, New York★ 7.5⌖ 7 miSnowshoeing
23-1 N Star Village

Snowshoeing the Bristol Hills Trail near Ithaca, New York

Explore the Bristol Hills Trail near Ithaca, New York, for a snowshoeing adventure. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this trail offers serene snow-covered landscapes and wildlife sightings during winter. Access is drive-in with nearby Canandaigua, NY.

SnowshoeingView Details→
Fishing in Honeoye Lake★ 6.5⌖ 10 miLake Fishing
Finger Lakes

Fishing in Honeoye Lake

Enjoy fishing at Honeoye Lake near Ithaca, New York. With year-round accessibility, this tranquil spot is perfect for lake fishing from shore or boat. Remember to have your fishing license ready as you explore this family-friendly location.

Lake FishingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Southhill High View – offers stunning views of Canandaigua Lake and the surrounding landscape✦ Unique wetland ecosystems – rich in biodiversity, providing critical habitats for numerous bird species✦ Ice caves – small but fascinating geological features popular with explorers✦ Off-the-beaten-path trails – providing secluded experiences and untouched nature
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in High Tor Wildlife Management Area

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in High Tor Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in High Tor Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in High Tor Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in High Tor Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in High Tor Wildlife Management Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in High Tor Wildlife Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access; 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).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in High Tor Wildlife Management Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

High Tor Primitive Campsites

Basic campsites scattered throughout the area for those seeking a rugged outdoor experience.

Reserve on Recreation.gov
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near High Tor Wildlife Management Area

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

Naples
⌖ 3.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Naples, New York

A charming Finger Lakes town offering a perfect blend of serene vineyards, gentle hills, and access to water and trails for year-round outdoor activity.

Spring through Fall for water and hiking activities; Winter for skiingExplore Town
Canadice
⌖ 11.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Canadice, New York

A quiet retreat offering serene outdoor adventures in the heart of the Finger Lakes region.

FallExplore Town
Honeoye
⌖ 13.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Honeoye, New York

A peaceful haven in the Finger Lakes that offers serene outdoor adventures throughout scenic landscapes.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Penn Yan
⌖ 14.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Penn Yan, New York

A charming lakeside town with rich history and a perfect launching point for Finger Lakes outdoor activities.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Canandaigua
⌖ 16.51 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Canandaigua, New York

A picturesque Upstate New York town with easy access to the breathtaking Finger Lakes region, offering diverse outdoor adventures on land and water.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Hemlock
⌖ 16.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hemlock, New York

A serene community embraced by the tranquil beauty of Finger Lakes, offering a peaceful escape with outdoor pursuits aplenty.

Spring to FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in High Tor Wildlife Management Area

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

12 bookable experiences

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