Finger Lakes Trail Shelter

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations available.

About

The Finger Lakes Trail Shelter is a primitive backcountry camping option located within the Finger Lakes National Forest, New York's only national forest. This three-sided Adirondack-style lean-to sits along the Finger Lakes Trail, offering hikers and backpackers basic shelter on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations required or accepted. The shelter provides a rustic backcountry experience with minimal amenities. A composting toilet is available nearby, but there is no drinking water on-site. Visitors must carry all their own food, cooking equipment, overnight gear, and water, or be prepared to treat water from natural sources. The shelter may be shared with other visitors, as is common with trail shelters. This site appeals to experienced backpackers and thru-hikers seeking a no-frills camping experience in the Finger Lakes region. The national forest features over 30 miles of interconnecting trails traversing gorges, ravines, pastures, and woodlands. All trash must be packed out, following Leave No Trace principles.

Directions

The Finger Lakes Trail Shelter is located directly along the Finger Lakes Trail, near Burdett in the Finger Lakes region of New York. Access the shelter by hiking along the FLT main trail or via nearby trailheads at major road crossings such as NY-14 or NY-414 near Watkins Glen State Park. Look for trail signage pointing towards the lean-to, which is a typical Adirondack-style structure situated for backpackers and through-hikers.

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