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New York
9

New York State Parks

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USA Parks
New York
Finger Lakes Region
Ketchumville State Forest
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KETCHUMVILLE STATE FOREST
KETCHUMVILLE STATE FOREST
Ketchumville State Forest, located in upstate New York, boasts enchanting beauty with its sprawling 1,334 acres of diverse natural landscapes. This captivating forest offers a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with its lush greenery, picturesque hiking trails, and vibrant wildlife. Visitors can wander along scenic paths, breathing in the fresh forest air, as they are surrounded by towering trees, tranquil ponds, and meandering streams. With its peaceful and serene ambiance, Ketchumville State Forest offers a serene escape from the bustling city life, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the ethereal beauty of nature.
History of the Area
The land that now comprises Ketchumville State Forest was originally inhabited by the Native American tribes of the Iroquois Confederacy, particularly the Cayuga and Mohawk tribes. These tribes utilized the forest for hunting, fishing, and gathering resources. However, with the arrival of European settlers, the Native American presence diminished, and the land changed hands.

In the 1800s, European settlers began to establish farming communities in the area. The land was primarily used for agriculture, with various crops and livestock being raised. This continued for several decades until the late 19th century when a shift in land use took place due to changes in agricultural practices and economic factors.

Around the early 1900s, the region experienced a decline in agriculture, and many farmers started abandoning their land. Recognizing the importance of preserving and managing forested lands, the State of New York acquired the abandoned farmlands and initiated reforestation projects. This marked the establishment of Ketchumville State Forest in the early 1900s.
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Trails
1. Ketchumville State Forest Loop: This is a 3-mile loop trail that offers moderate difficulty for hikers, with some steep inclines and rocky terrain to navigate through. The path winds around the forest's dense woodlands, offering glimpses of local wildlife.

2. Blue Trail: A relatively easy hike spanning about 4 miles round trip, this trail takes you along serene woodland paths dotted with wildflowers during springtime and vibrant foliage in fall.

3. Red Trail: Known as one of the more challenging trails within Ketchumville State Forest due to its length (approximately six miles) and uneven ground at certain points; however it rewards hikers with stunning views over rolling hillsides from various vantage points throughout the route.

4. Yellow Pathway: An intermediate-level hiking track stretching approximately five miles across diverse landscapes including wetland areas where birdwatchers can spot numerous species native to New York state forests such as red-tailed hawk or great blue heron among others.

5. Green Route: Another moderately difficult option which spans roughly four-and-a-half-miles featuring several stream crossings on wooden bridges adding an element of adventure while traversing through lush greenery.

6. White Connector Trails: These shorter routes connect main trails together providing options for customizing hikes according their desired distance or challenge level they are generally less than two mile long each but offer unique perspectives into different parts within park's boundaries.

7. Orange Accessible Path: Designed specifically accessibility needs mind, paved surface allows wheelchair users other mobility-impaired individuals enjoy beauty surrounding environment without facing obstacles often encountered traditional dirt tracks It extends just under half mile making ideal choice quick stroll amidst nature.

8. Purple Wildlife Observation Track: Slightly off beaten path compared rest network yet worth effort if interested spotting animals natural habitat Approximately three quarters long provides opportunities observe deer fox squirrels even occasional black bear safely distance.

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Area Campgrounds
Pine Valley Campground
600 Boswell Hill Road
Endicott, NY
607-785-6868
Area Cabins and Lodges
Fire Fox Resorts Camping
330 Rabbit Path Rd
Lisle, NY
(607) 692-4440

Directions
1. Start by heading south on NY-38 S/South St towards Main St.
2. Continue straight onto NY-26 S/State Rte 26 for about 7 miles.
3. Turn left onto NYS Route 79 E and continue for approximately 5 miles.
4. Take a slight right turn onto Halsey Valley Rd/NY-96B South and drive for around 6 miles until you reach the forest entrance.

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New York
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New York State Parks

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