Description

This preserve, maintained by the Finger Lakes Land Trust, is a perfect refuge during hunting season.  In fact, our hikers will be performing a service to the land trust by patrolling the woods as they walk. Steege Hill is about 800 acres acquired in 2001 from an anonymous donor.  The forest is regenerating after heavy logging in the 1970’s and contains many  species of hardwoods.  The 6 miles of trails are constructed largely on the old logging roads. On some of the steep slopes original hardwoods and conifers still remain.  From its hilltop vantage point, there is a bird’s eye view of the Chemung River.  Worth mentioning are two notable creatures that inhabit this woods.  Timber Rattlesnakes have long been residents here, especially on the sunlit rocky outcroppings. They may be snugly out of sight this time of year.  The nests of Allegheny Mound Ants are common sight, trailside and in clearings.  Black bears like it here too.

Hike Groups

Lets hope the weather conditions are more favorable than last year’s wet and snowy visit to Steege Hill.  All groups will depart together from the parking area, heading uphill for about 1/2 mile on a moderate pitch. There are 4 trail loops to explore.

Naturalists  will cruise around the Yellow Loop, about a 2 mile jaunt with a few small inclines and a pond.  A volunteer leader is needed for this group.

Tourists will traverse the blue and orange trails, enjoying a variety of terrain with some moderate climbs, about 3.5miles. A volunteer leader will also be needed for this group.

Climbers will tackle the white and red trails which offer some up and down hill changes as well as a nice valley view.  Distance is about 4.5 miles.

Hopefully all groups will arrive back at the starting point at approximately the same time.

Parking space at Steege Hill is limited.  Carpooling is highly recommended.  Meet in Springwater at the Town Hall on Route 15 at 12:45 as the drive is about 1 hour.

Directions  take 390 south to I 86.  Take exit 48 then follow Rt 352E for 1.5 miles.  Turn right on South Corning Rd. for .7 miles.  After crossing bridge across Chemung River, turn left on Steege Hill Rd.  Follow for 1 mile.  Preserve is on left.

After Hike Social will be at Tags Restaurant, 3037 Rt  252 in Big Flats.  It is a very short drive from the hike.  Good food.  We have been there previously.