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 60 miles.

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, New York
⌖ 5.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dryden, New York

Dryden, NY is a peaceful Finger Lakes town perfect for outdoor lovers seeking hiking, paddling, and cross-country skiing amid quiet forests and lakes. It’s a great base for exploring natural preserves and enjoying seasonal outdoor adventures.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Ithaca, New York
⌖ 8.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ithaca, New York

Ithaca offers an outdoor paradise with spectacular waterfalls, serene lakes, and lush trails. Ideal for hiking, kayaking, or simply enjoying nature's finest, it's a prime Finger Lakes attraction.

Spring and Summer
Explore Town
Lansing, New York
⌖ 14.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lansing, New York

Lansing, New York, borders the northern shore of Cayuga Lake, offering visitors diverse outdoor adventures from lakeside paddling and hiking to quiet snowshoeing trails. This lakeside town is a serene base for discovery throughout the seasons.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Newfield, New York
⌖ 14.10 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Newfield, New York

Newfield, NY offers peaceful outdoor adventures with hiking, fishing, and paddling amid lush forests and creeks. Its proximity to Robert H. Treman State Park makes it a great spot for nature lovers seeking quiet escapes year-round.

Spring through Fall for most activities; Winter for snowshoeing
Explore Town
Cortland, New York
⌖ 14.68 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cortland, New York

Cortland, NY is a paradise for adventure lovers with activities ranging from hiking and biking to skiing and paddling. Explore scenic trails, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant festivals.

Fall and Winter
Explore Town
Trumansburg, New York
⌖ 19.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Trumansburg, New York

Trumansburg is a serene destination in the Finger Lakes that offers adventurers scenic trails, majestic waterfalls, and vibrant nature viewing opportunities, perfect for exploring the outdoors.

Fall
Explore 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.

Ithaca at Golden Hour: A Cayuga Lake Sunset by Discover Cayuga Lake
ADVEXPEDITION
Ithaca, New York
Boat TourADV Bookable

Ithaca at Golden Hour: A Cayuga Lake Sunset by Discover Cayuga Lake

A 1.5-hour evening cruise with light narration and informal crew commentary that follows a course designed to showcase Cayuga Lake's sunset while passing historic cottage communities and unique natural areas.

Boat TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
One Hour on Cayuga: A brisk, family-friendly paddle from Myers Park
ADVEXPEDITION
Lansing, New York
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

One Hour on Cayuga: A brisk, family-friendly paddle from Myers Park

A focused, self-guided one-hour rental from Paddle-N-More that equips beginners and families with life jackets, a safety briefing, and route suggestions so you can get on the water quickly and confidently.

Water ActivitiesPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Taughannock — Eight Hours on the Water with Paddle‑N‑More
ADVEXPEDITION
Ulysses, New York
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Taughannock — Eight Hours on the Water with Paddle‑N‑More

An eight-hour rental of single and tandem kayaks or paddleboards in Ulysses; this guide outlines booking, onsite logistics and the operator’s policies so you can focus on the water.

Water ActivitiesPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Nightfall on Cayuga: Myers Park Stargazing by Kayak
ADVEXPEDITION
Lansing, New York
Guided TourADV Bookable

Nightfall on Cayuga: Myers Park Stargazing by Kayak

A two-hour guided paddling tour on Cayuga Lake led by American Canoe Association–trained guides; this guide explains logistics, meeting points, and what to bring so you arrive ready.

Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Stewart — Two Hours of Ready-to-Go Kayaks and SUPs
ADVEXPEDITION
Ithaca, New York
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Stewart — Two Hours of Ready-to-Go Kayaks and SUPs

Two-hour rentals of single and tandem kayaks and paddleboards from Paddle-N-More, launching from 71 Stewart Park; this guide explains reservations, operator policies, and what to expect on the water.

Water ActivitiesPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Two Days on Cayuga: A Compact Deck-Boat Rental for Up to Seven
ADVEXPEDITION
Romulus, New York
Boat TourADV Bookable

Two Days on Cayuga: A Compact Deck-Boat Rental for Up to Seven

A 33-hour rental of an 18ft Fourwinns deck boat on Lake Cayuga — seating for seven, driver 21+, starting at $750 — this guide lays out logistics, rules and what to pack for the outing.

Boat TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip