The best walks and hikes around Skaneateles Lake

Yes, the area has several options suitable for families. The Phillips Pond – Baltimore Woods Nature Center loop from Marcellus is a gentle walk through a nature center. Another great choice is the Charlie Major Nature Trail, which follows a flat, former railroad bed along Skaneateles Creek and is popular with local families.

The region is known for its beautiful gorges and waterfalls. For a truly impressive sight, head to Carpenter Falls, which drops 90 feet within the Bahar Nature Preserve. Bear Swamp State Forest also features trails that follow Bear Swamp Creek, the tributary that feeds the falls.

Many trails in the Skaneateles area are dog-friendly, but policies can vary between preserves. For example, the Skaneateles Conservation Area is a popular spot for local dog walkers, though it's always best practice to keep your dog on a leash and check the specific rules for each park before you go.

The Hinchcliff Family Preserve offers a well-regarded 1.4-mile loop that passes through forests and past old stone remnants of the area's history. For another option, High Vista Nature Preserve features a peaceful 1.1-mile loop trail that ascends through the forest and crosses a stream.

For panoramic vistas, Ripley Hill Preserve is a top choice. At 1,968 feet, it's the highest point in the watershed and offers one of the finest views looking north up the lake. The trails within Hinchcliff Family Preserve also provide impressive overlooks of the eastern shore.

Yes, many trails are accessible for winter hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Bear Swamp State Forest, with over 13 miles of multi-use trails, is a popular destination in the winter. Always wear appropriate footwear like microspikes, as trails can become icy and slippery, especially in the gorges.

The trail follows the path of the old Skaneateles Short Line Railroad. Along the way, you can see remnants of this history, including old railroad components, dams, and former mill buildings that once operated along Skaneateles Creek.

The Otisco Lake shoreline via M Road — Skaneateles is a very flat route that offers a pleasant stroll. The Charlie Major Nature Trail is another excellent option, as it's built on a level railroad bed, making it one of the flattest walks in the area.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the pristine, clear water of the lake which serves as a stunning backdrop for any adventure. The variety of trails, from serene lakeside strolls to challenging climbs in deep gorges, is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

The top hiking destinations are a series of preserves and state forests around the lake. These include Bear Swamp State Forest, known for its extensive trail network; Bahar Nature Preserve, home to Carpenter Falls; and the connected trio of Hinchcliff Family, High Vista, and Ripley Hill Preserves on the eastern side, which offer fantastic lake views.

Most of the established nature preserves and state forests, such as the Skaneateles Conservation Area and Hinchcliff Family Preserve, have designated parking areas at their trailheads. For the popular Charlie Major Nature Trail, there is a dedicated lot right at the trailhead in the village of Skaneateles.