The best walks and hikes in Madison County
4.9
(26)
494
hikers
29
hikes
Hiking in Madison County, New York, offers a diverse landscape characterized by glacial lakes, dense woodlands, and historic waterways. The region features a mix of gentle paths around its prominent lakes and more challenging trails through forested hills. These varied terrains provide opportunities for different types of outdoor exploration. The network of hiking trails in Madison County includes options for different ability levels, from easy lakeside strolls to moderate climbs through wooded areas.
Best hiking trails in Madison County
- The…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
11
hikers
15.7km
04:26
350m
330m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
853m
00:15
30m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
1
hikers
9.29km
02:32
130m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
4.40km
01:14
100m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.94km
01:33
60m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.58km
00:26
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.60km
00:59
80m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.62km
01:09
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.38km
00:47
160m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
74.5km
18:46
100m
100m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
$10 to visit, interesting look at the history of the canal including a life-sized canal boat, workshop, and store you can walk through. They also have a small gift shop with a couple snacks/coffee available.
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Methodist church built in 1909 with Pennsylvania white marble. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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This structure is a navigable aqueduct, carrying water over water. Truly an incredible feat of engineering showcased in the Erie canal project
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This grassy area has picnic tables and can be a good place to stop for a break along the canal way.
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This is one of the many locks at Erie Canal, it is surrounded by grassland and is a nice spot to take a break.
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Here you will reach Canastota. It played a crucial role between Rome and Syracuse, serving a vast agricultural area. Even though the village's canal segment was abandoned by the 1920s, much of it is preserved today as part of the Old Erie Canal State Historic Park.
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This cute little park sits right alongside the old Erie Canal. It's a good picnic spot or turnaround point for the Erie Canalway Trail, which is just on the other side of the water. If you wanted to, you could ride all the way from Albany to Buffalo along the local canal trails, but not all parts of those trails will be as pretty as this area, since they travel through the cities and the water isn't always visible.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there in Madison County?
Madison County offers a selection of 11 hiking routes. These include 6 easy trails and 5 moderate options, providing a range of experiences for different skill levels.
What makes hiking in Madison County unique?
Hiking in Madison County, New York, is characterized by its diverse landscape, featuring unique glacial lakes, extensive woodlands, and historic canal paths. The region offers a mix of gentle lakeside strolls and more challenging climbs through forested areas, providing varied outdoor exploration.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Madison County?
The trails in Madison County are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.95 stars from over 17 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the scenic beauty of the glacial lakes and the well-maintained paths through varied terrain.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, Madison County has 6 easy hiking trails. A popular choice is the Green Lake loop — Green Lakes State Park, which is a 1.9-mile (3.1 km) path offering views of the unique meromictic lake. Another accessible option is the Cedar Bay Park – Erie Canalway Trail loop, which follows a historic canal path.
Are there any challenging hikes in Madison County?
While there are no routes classified as 'difficult,' Madison County offers 5 moderate trails for those seeking a longer or more strenuous experience. The Green Lake loop from Salt Springs is a moderate 9.9-mile (16.0 km) path, and the Arab Hill loop from Highland Forest Ski Rental is an 8.8-mile (14.2 km) trail through forested hills.
Can I find trails with water features like lakes or canals?
Absolutely. Madison County is known for its glacial lakes and historic waterways. Many trails, such as the various loops around Green Lake in Green Lakes State Park, offer stunning lakeside views. Additionally, the Cedar Bay Park – Erie Canalway Trail loop provides an opportunity to explore the historic Erie Canal.
Are there circular or loop hikes available in Madison County?
Yes, many of the trails in Madison County are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. Examples include the Green Lake loop, the Arab Hill loop, and the Cedar Bay Park – Erie Canalway Trail loop.
Are the hiking trails in Madison County family-friendly?
Many trails in Madison County are suitable for families, especially the easy routes. The shorter loops around Green Lake in Green Lakes State Park are particularly popular for their gentle terrain and scenic views, making them ideal for outings with children.
Are there dog-friendly trails in Madison County?
Most state parks and public lands in Madison County generally allow dogs on trails, provided they are kept on a leash. It's always recommended to check specific park regulations or trail signage before heading out with your pet, especially in protected natural areas.
What are the parking options for hiking trails in Madison County?
Parking is typically available at the main trailheads and state parks, such as Green Lakes State Park and Highland Forest. These locations usually have designated parking lots for visitors. Some smaller trail access points might have limited roadside parking.
When is the best time of year to hike in Madison County?
Madison County offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while summer provides warm weather for lakeside activities. Autumn is particularly popular for its vibrant fall foliage, and winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on some trails.
Are there any specific landmarks or points of interest along the trails?
Yes, the region is home to several notable features. Green Lakes State Park is a significant landmark, famous for its two meromictic lakes, Green Lake and Round Lake, which are rare and exceptionally deep. The historic Erie Canalway Trail also offers glimpses into the region's past as you hike alongside the old canal.
Most popular routes in Madison County
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