Description

As the hunting season is upon us, our trail options are limited.  Steege Hill provides a perfect refuge with its 800 acres of wooded trails that are protected and patrolled.  The land for this preserve was donated to the Finger Lakes Land Trust in 2001 with the stipulation that during deer hunting season it would be patrolled a minimum of 12 hours per week to protect against trespass.  Our group will be contributing to this effort.

Located on a hilltop, the preserve provides a bird’s eye view of the Chemung River.  The scenery here never disappoints us.  The forest here is regenerating after heavy logging in the 1970’s and contains many species of hardwoods.  On some of the steep slopes, original hardwoods and conifers have survived the timber cutting era.  The six miles of trails are constructed mainly on former logging roads, allowing for easy navigation.

Worth mentioning are two forest residents.  Timber rattlesnakes are nor common in this area but are present here.  In warmer weather they enjoy sunning themselves on the sunny rocky outcroppings.  By late November they are unlikely to be out and about, however caution is advised if you step off the trail. The other creature of interest, the Allegheny Mound Ant, announces its presence in the numerous home sites established along the trail and in the clearings where they seek the sunlight to warm their homes. Black bears have been sighted here as well, so keep your camera handy.

For more information about the history and geology of Steege Hill Preserve go to http://fllt.org/preserves/steege-hill-preser

Hiking Groups

Although few hunters have been encountered here over the decades, please make yourself visible by wearing blaze orange.  The trails are well maintained, but conditions can vary with the weather.  Please wear sturdy hiking boots and bring hiking poles.

All groups will depart from the parking area on Steege Hill Rd.  There is a moderate 1/2 mile uphill walk to access the trails.  Depending on the number and hiking levels of the group, the following routes may be adjusted on site.

Naturalists will enjoy a meander around the Yellow Loop with its gentle slopes and scenic pond.  The distance is about 2 miles.  A volunteer hike leader will be needed for this group.

Tourists  will traverse the Blue, Orange, and Yellow loops, enjoying a variety of terrain and some nice views.  Uphills are moderate.  Distance is about 3.5 miles.

Climbers   will tackle the challenging White trail, then connect with the Blue trail to return to the start for a distance of 4.5 miles.  A volunteer leader will be needed for this group.

Each group leader will be provided with a map and Hunter Patrol Protocol

Directions 

For those who prefer to carpool, we will meet at the Springwater Town Hall at 12:30 PM.  From there, the drive is 1 hour and 8 minutes to Steege Hill.

Follow Interstate 390 South to Interstate 86 East.

Take I 86 to exit 48.

Turn onto 352 East and go 1.5 miles.

Turn right on South Corning Rd. and drive .7 miles.

After crossing the Chemung River, turn left on Steege Hill Rd.

Go .5 miles and after a steep S curve, turn left into the parking area.

Social Gathering 

After the hike we will make a short drive to Tag’s Restaurant which is located at 3037State Rte 352.

For a menu go to http://tagsrestaurant.com

Here’s hoping for some dry weather next Sunday.