Spafford Forest

Spafford Forest

   Nestled in the scenic Finger Lakes region of New York, Spafford Forest offers a rugged escape for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure off the beaten path. This 701-acre preserve, managed by Onondaga County Parks, lies in the southwestern corner of the county, southeast of Skaneateles and straddling the areas between the towns of Spafford and Otisco. Often associated with nearby Highland Forest due to shared management—where visitors can obtain maps and information from the staff at Skyline Lodge—Spafford Forest provides a more untamed experience compared to its developed neighbor.

Unlike the well-marked trails of many parks, Spafford Forest is an undeveloped wilderness featuring unmarked paths, primarily old jeep trails that double as routes for 4x4 vehicles and dirt bikes. These trails can become muddy and challenging, making it ideal for experienced hikers looking for exploration rather than casual strolls. A highlight is the old hang glider launch site on the eastern edge, reachable via a half-mile hike with a 100-foot elevation gain. The initial steep section gives way to rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding valley, perfect for navigation practice or a quiet moment amid nature.

Activities in the forest emphasize self-guided outdoor pursuits, including hiking, dirt biking, and wildlife observation. It’s close to Ripley Hill and other natural attractions like Bucktail Falls, adding to its appeal for day trips. Nearby, the more amenity-rich Highland Forest in Fabius offers complementary experiences with over 30 miles of groomed trails for skiing, horseback riding, and mountain biking, but Spafford’s raw terrain appeals to those craving solitude and challenge.

Visitors should come prepared:
There’s no formal entrance fee mentioned, but respect for the land is key—stick to trails to minimize impact, and check with Highland Forest staff for current conditions. Parking is available off Craig Road, with directions leading to a small lot as the road bends. Whether you’re a hiker testing your skills or an explorer seeking unspoiled beauty, Spafford Forest embodies the wild spirit of Central New York’s highlands.

Key Trails and Points of Interest
Since trails are mostly unnamed jeep roads, descriptions are based on user-reported paths:
• Jeep Trails Network: A series of interconnected old jeep trails form the backbone of the forest. These can be explored in loops or out-and-back hikes, with varying lengths depending on your route. They are suitable for hiking, but expect mud and vehicle ruts. A basic map from CNY Hiking shows several of these trails branching from the parking area, leading deeper into the woods.
• Hang Glider Launch Site Trail: A highlight is this 0.5-mile path to an old hang glider spot on the eastern edge. It involves a 100-foot elevation gain, starting steep before leveling out. The site offers panoramic views of the valley below. Access it via one of the jeep trails, ignoring any “no trespassing” signs on adjacent private land as the spot is within county property.
• North Trail Loop: This 793-meter (about 0.5-mile) doubletrack trail is rated green (easy) and can be hiked in both directions. It’s a good introductory loop within the northern section of the forest.
• Ripley Hill Trail (Adjacent/Connecting): While not directly in Spafford Forest, this 1.28-mile one-way trail connects the Hinchcliff Family Preserve to Ripley Hill Nature Preserve, with a 500-foot elevation change. It passes near Spafford Forest and offers a scenic view of Skaneateles Lake. Start from the Covey Road parking area.

The trail map sign for Ripley Hill details a dashed red hiking path from parking (P) eastbound, passing a Skaneateles Lake View point, oriented with north at the top and a scale of 250 feet.