Highland Forest

Over 20 miles of year-round trails are the prime attraction at the "Adirondacks of Central New York." The oldest county park contains more than six square miles of rugged forest terrain detailed in free maps available at Skyline Lodge; a self-guided Nature Trail is the perfect introductory hike.

"Awesome asset to Onondaga County Parks...Great fun and fantastic exercise."
Ethan Ausburn, Liverpool, NY

Popular Activities:

Walking and Hiking

The best way to experience the great outdoors is to explore the wooded trails of Highland. Click here to download a hiking map. Some of the trails at Highland Forest are part of the Finger Lakes Trail which begins at the Pennsylvania -New York border in Allegany State Park and continues to the Long Path in the Catskill Preserve.

Horseback Riding

Explore Highland Forest on specially designated horseback trails. Horseback trails are open May 1 - October 31. All riders must park in the Skyline Lodge lot and register inside the lodge. Admission is $1 per person. Maps are available.

Horseback rides, provided by Highland Outfitters, are $30 per person per hour, available for ages 5 & up and are by appointment only, call 289-3775.

2013 Hours
May 11 - June 21 • Friday, Saturday & Sunday • 10am - 5pm
June 21 - September 3 • Daily except Wednesday • 10am - 5pm
September 6 - October 27 • Friday, Saturday & Sunday • 10am - 5pm

Ride can be extended up to 2, 3 or 4 hours. A maximum of two riders under the age of 8 per group, if there are riders between ages 5-8 years old, a complimentary guide will accompany the group. Private rides are available.

Overnight Packages Now Available!
 • 1.5 hour ride in the evening
 • Evening meal catered by Orchard Vali
 • Overnight stay at Valley Camp
 • Breakfast served at the Skyline Lodge
 • 1 hour ride after breakfast
 • Minimum of 6 people required
Please call 289-3775 early for best available dates and rates.

New for Summer 2013 - Learn to Ride Horseback Riding Adventure (8yrs and Up)

Our horseback riding adventure introduces new riders to the amazing world of horseback care, understanding and riding. During the 3 day sessions riders will: Learn Horse Anatomy, Colors and Markings How to Halter, Lead, Groom and Catch a Horse Saddling Riding Techniques, Mounting, Dismounting,Balance and Safety Trail Riding Feeding and Horse Health Crafts and Activities Learn to Ride Certificate of Completion Only 8 riders per week are accepted into the program. Please contact us for additional details and pricing. Additional private trail riding lessons available for all program attendees for an additional fee, please contact Highland Outfitters for additional information.

Session 1 June 24-26
Session 2 July 15-17
Session 3 July 22-24
Session 4 July 29-31

Sessions run from 9am-1pm and are $160.00 per session.

Mountain Biking

There is no better place to give your bike a workout than on the 20 miles of trails at the "Adirondacks of Central New York." Highland offers a mix of country road, mountain trail and backwoods adventure while opportunities for Off-Road Bicycling can be found on park roads and on fire lanes. Mountain Biking trails are open May 1 - October 31. All bikers must park in the Skyline Lodge lot and register inside the lodge. Admission is $1 per person. Click here to download a map or pick one up at the park office.

Picnics

Request a shelter (available May-October) perfect for your next casual family function or group outing.

Youth Group Camping

Available year-round cabins rent from $95-$140, while tenting areas are $6-$35 per night. The rustic cabins are now available on a limited basis for family groups, call Highland Forest directly for more information. To request a shelter, click here to visit our reservations webpage or call the Parks Reservation Department (315) 451-6249. Download the Youth Camping at Highland Forest brochure »

Hunting

Bow/Deer Hunting is permitted in the Fall while Turkey Hunting is allowed in the Spring at Highland Forest. Permits can obtained by contacting the park. Please note: Cross bows are not permitted at Highland. 

 

Host your next special event at Skyline Lodge!

The spectacular view from Highland Forest's Skyline Lodge will, without a doubt make your event one to remember. Including the grounds, Skyline Lodge may accomodate from 50-250. Our staff is ready to work with you to create the wedding, or any other event, of your dreams. The exclusive caterer is Orchard Vali, who will gladly work with you to create just the right menu for your special occasion. Click here to learn more about Skyline Lodge.

New York Special Olympic Winter Games are Returning to Syracuse on February 4 & 5, 2011

During your visit to Onondaga County Parks, you may be photographed, videotaped, or filmed by Onondaga County Parks or authorized parties. Your attendance/admission serves as permission for use of these images by Onondaga County Parks. Commercial photography or filming is prohibited without permission of Onondaga County Parks.