The best walks and hikes in Texas Hollow State Forest
4.7
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1,886
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Hikes in Texas Hollow State Forest explore a 937-acre expanse defined by a U-shaped glacial valley. The terrain features dense woodlands, several ponds, and a notable bog ecosystem, which is the only one of its kind in Schuyler County. A segment of the Finger Lakes Trail, which is also part of the North Country National Scenic Trail, passes through the forest, providing varied hiking opportunities.
Best hiking trails in Texas Hollow State Forest
- The most popular hiking route is Texas…
Last updated: July 15, 2026
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
13.1km
03:37
220m
220m
The Van Lone Hill and Finger Lakes Trail Loop offers a dynamic hiking experience through the diverse landscapes of Central New York. You'll traverse wooded hillsides, follow the winding Cayuta…
1
hikers
34.2km
09:28
590m
590m
The Finger Lakes Trail: Connecticut Hill Loop offers a deep dive into New York's largest Wildlife Management Area, providing a diverse and engaging hiking experience. You'll trek through dense hardwood…
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5.0
(1)
1
hikers
12.0km
03:33
360m
360m
The Finger Lakes and North Country Trail: Satterly Hill Loop is a rewarding hike that immerses you in the rich biodiversity of the Finger Lakes National Forest. This 7.5-mile (12.0…
24.1km
07:01
630m
630m
The Finger Lakes Trail / North Country Trail: Texas Hollow offers a diverse and engaging hiking experience through unique U-shaped glacial valleys and dense forests. You'll traverse tranquil ponds, a…
1
hikers
7.58km
02:04
120m
90m
The Interloken Trail to Blueberry Patch Campground offers a unique hiking experience, blending serene pine plantations with expansive open fields where you might encounter grazing cows. You'll enjoy sweeping views…
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Tips from the Community
Tiny hut, a little of the Burnt Hill Trail/ Finger Lakes Trail. If you follow the trail a little further you can even get some nice views into the hilly landscape. You can use the shelter for a short break when it's raining or for a stay for the night when you are hiking the Finger Lakes Trail. There are also fire pits and enough space to pitch your tent.
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At this position the Finger Lakes Trail crosses the road right on top of Satterly Hill. Therefore you have a quiet decent view both to the North and to the South. The street is running in a straight line from North to South over the Hill and makes a nice subject for a photo.
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From top of Roger Hill, just outside of Texas Hollow State Forest, you can enjoy a pleasant view of Cayuta Lake and the hilly landscape of Connecticut Hill Management Wildlife Area right on the other side of the lake.
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Right below the ridgeline of Texas Hollow State Forest you can find this unspoilt pond. The Texas Hollow State Forest mainly consists of a large valley of pristine forests, some manmade and natural ponds and a boggy area, where you can spot a lot of wildlife. The Finger Lakes Trail runs right trough the valley connecting the Finger Lakes National Forest in the North to the Connecticut Wildlife Management Area in the South. On it's northern shoreline there's the primitve „Texas Hollow Pond Campsite” where you can easily stay for one night to fully enjoy this quaint place.
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Here you're on top of the hill which lends its name to the whole Wildlife Management Area. There's a parking lot on top of the hill, from here you can start onto several marked hiking trails all leading through the pretty pristine forests of the Connecticut Wildlife Management Area.
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Perfect spot for a picnic when the weather is warm.
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This lake is popular for fishing as a lot of fish species live here. Bass, yellow perch, brown bullhead and carp are the most common.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Texas Hollow State Forest?
Yes, dogs are welcome in Texas Hollow State Forest. For the safety of your pet, local wildlife, and other hikers, please keep your dog on a leash and under your control at all times.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the forest?
The forest is a great place for a family outing. A highlight is the blue-blazed Bog Loop Trail, a short 0.7-mile loop that provides a fascinating look at the unique bog ecosystem without being too challenging for younger hikers.
Can I go hiking here in the winter?
Yes, winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for snow and ice on the trails. Proper winter gear, including microspikes or snowshoes, is highly recommended for safety and comfort. The forest is also open to snowmobiling during the winter months.
What kind of wildlife might I see in Texas Hollow State Forest?
The diverse habitats, including woodlands, ponds, and the unique bog, support a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, various bird species, amphibians, and other woodland creatures. The area is particularly known for birdwatching, especially around Texas Hollow Pond.
Are there any waterfalls in the state forest?
Texas Hollow State Forest is primarily known for its serene ponds, dense woodlands, and the unique bog within the hollow. While the terrain includes streams and wetlands, it does not feature prominent or named waterfalls.
Is there a fee for parking or entry?
There are no fees for parking or entering Texas Hollow State Forest for day-use activities like hiking.
How many trails are there to choose from?
You can explore over 15 different hiking routes within and around Texas Hollow State Forest. The trail system offers a good mix of difficulties, with the majority of routes being of moderate intensity, alongside a few easy and difficult options.
What do other hikers think of the trails here?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the quiet, remote feeling of the woodlands and the unique scenery around the bog and ponds.
Are there any long-distance hiking opportunities?
Yes, the forest is crossed by a segment of the Finger Lakes Trail (FLT), which is also part of the North Country National Scenic Trail. This allows for extended point-to-point hikes, such as the Finger Lakes Trail to Satterly Hill, or even multi-day backpacking trips.
Can I camp in the forest?
Primitive camping is permitted in Texas Hollow State Forest, allowing for an immersive nature experience. There are no designated campgrounds or facilities, so you must follow Leave No Trace principles and be fully self-sufficient. There are no fees for primitive camping.
Are there any challenging hikes with significant elevation gain?
For those seeking a strenuous challenge, the forest offers routes with steep climbs out of the hollow. The Cayuta Lake to Connecticut Hill Loop is a very difficult hike that covers over 21 miles and involves substantial elevation gain, rewarding hikers with a true sense of accomplishment.
How does hiking here compare to nearby Shindagin Hollow State Forest?
Texas Hollow State Forest (937 acres) offers a more intimate experience focused on its unique bog and pond ecosystems. Shindagin Hollow State Forest is much larger (over 5,000 acres) and is a popular, highly-regarded destination known for its extensive network of multi-use trails, particularly for mountain biking and hiking.
Most popular routes in Texas Hollow State Forest
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