Both new and experienced hikers need to know as much as possible about the condition of the trail they plan to hike. For the latest information about trail conditions, visit the Trail Condition Notices page.
Important:
Trail conditions change frequently. You can help by reporting trail conditions. Trail Conditions are posted when reported. Reports are verified and rectified if and when volunteers are available.
New hikers need to understand that the trail is a "primitive footpath." If you are looking for a smooth, easy "walk in the park" then you might prefer a park for your walking. On the other hand, if you are looking to challenge yourself and get away from "engineered" experiences, then come to the Finger Lakes Trail.
Nevertheless, we want the condition of the Finger Lakes Trail to be the best it can be. Every section of the trail is maintained by stewards and trail adopters who are members of the FLTC and affiliate clubs and organizations. These people volunteer their time because they care about the Finger Lakes Trail. They also care about your experience on the trail. They visit their section of trail several times each year to look for problems: trail erosion, litter, vegetation infringement on the trail, fallen trees and branches, blazes and signs that need to be replaced or refreshed, and infrastructure that needs repair. In short, they look for things that will interfere with your wilderness hiking experience.
Trail volunteers also interact with our private landowners who have agreed to share a portion of their property with FLT hikers. Our volunteers are the first to know when land ownership may change, or when the landowner has had a problem on their section of trail.
Whether you are a new or experienced hiker, if you find a problem on the trail, let us know! Visit the Trail Condition Reporting page for more information.
Remember, some sections of the trail are closed during hunting seasons which include Spring and Fall turkey seasons, and Fall big game seasons. Closures are listed in red in the Trail Condition Notices. Dates are listed on Hunting Season Schedules.
And, when you are ready, join us as a volunteer to help keep the Finger Lakes Trail one of the best hiking trails in the world.
This page has trail condition notices for the entire FLT system. Notices are updated regularly by regional trail coordinators. Always check here before you leave for your hike.
