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
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Popular Activities:
Sleigh/Hay Rides
Saturday, December 17 - Sunday, March 18, every weekend and the following weekdays: January 16; February 20 & 24.
11am - 4pm
$6; $3 (5 & under)
Enjoy a rustic, open air 20 minute ride through the winter woods with or without snow. Rides are first come, first served and be sure to dress for the weather.
Cross Country Skiing
Twenty miles of groomed nordic ski trails offer fun and challenges for skiers of all levels on terrain which has elevation changes up to 400 feet. Equipment rentals are available daily, snow conditions permitting, from 9am - 3pm at the Skyline Lodge Rental Shop. Ski Lessons are offered weekends and during the February Winter Break.
Click here for all the details about the trails, rentals and lessons. Click here for snow condition reports.
Snowshoeing/Walking/Hiking
The best way to experience the great outdoors is to explore the wooded trails of Highland. Click here to download a snowshoe/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. Snowshoe rentals are available at Skyline Lodge, weather permitting, for $3 for the first hour, $2 each additional hour.
Picnics
Reserve a Picnic 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 submit a reservation request, click on the "Book Now" link or call the Parks Reservation Department (315) 451-6249.
Hunting
Bow/Deer Hunting is permitted in the Fall while Turkey Hunting is allowed in the Spring at Highland Forest. Permits for bow season (fall) and turkey hunting (spring) can be 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.
| Hours |
Open Daily |
| Admission |
$1 per person: 21 years and under free Cross Country Ski Trail Use: Sleigh or Hay Rides: $6; $3 5 years & under |
| Acres | 2,729 |
| Contact |
T: (315) 683-5550 |
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.