This year round recreation trail provides visitors the opportunity to experience the scenic beauty and historic charm of the glacially-carved valley south of Seneca Lake. Following abandoned railroad and canal towpath corridors, the trail passes through a variety of wildlife habitats. The compact stone-dust trail surface accommodates walking, bicycling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Currently six miles of the trail is available for use. When construction is complete the trail will be twelve miles long and extending from the Village of Watkins Glen to Horseheads.
Pet Policy: A maximum of two pets are allowed in day use areas unless prohibited by sign or directive. Pets are to be supervised at all times and either be crated or on a leash not more than 6-feet in length. Proof of rabies inoculation shall be produced if requested by staff. Pets are not permitted in playgrounds, buildings, golf courses, boardwalks, pools and spray-grounds or guarded beaches (this does not apply to service animals).
2024-25 Hunting Schedule for Finger Lakes State Parks & Historic Sites
On the Catharine Valley Trail, a one-mile section of the trail near the Village of Montour Falls will be closed for approximately four (4) weeks during regular gun season. Reference the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Hunting and Trapping Guide for current dates and rules for regular gun season.
No hunting is allowed on the Catharine Valley Trail.