Sugar Hill State Forest
Explore over 9,000 acres of trails, climb a fire tower for stunning Finger Lakes views, and enjoy primitive camping.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Sugar Hill State Forest
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore over 9,000 acres of trails, climb a fire tower for stunning Finger Lakes views, and enjoy primitive camping.
"The fire tower offers the best view in the Finger Lakes region. "
🎯 Climb the Fire Tower
The fire tower offers the best views! Be prepared for heights.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Water access is limited. Carry enough for drinking and cleaning.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sugar Hill Fire Tower
Near Watkins Glen, NY
Ascend for breathtaking, panoramic views of the Finger Lakes region. A must-see for photographers and nature lovers.
Extensive Trail Network
Throughout Sugar Hill State Forest
Over 9,000 acres of diverse trails for hiking and horseback riding. Explore forests, streams, and scenic vistas.
Primitive Campsites
Designated camping areas
Experience the outdoors with rustic camping. Sites offer fire rings and grills, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Fire Tower Views & Trail Access
Water & Facilities Check
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Climb the Fire Tower
The fire tower offers the best views! Be prepared for heights.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Water access is limited. Carry enough for drinking and cleaning.
🐴 Horseback Riding Trails
Well-maintained trails are great for equestrians. Stables are available.
🏕️ Pack All Supplies
No on-site store. Bring food, firewood, and essentials.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Climb the Fire Tower
The fire tower offers the best views! Be prepared for heights.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Water access is limited. Carry enough for drinking and cleaning.
🐴 Horseback Riding Trails
Well-maintained trails are great for equestrians. Stables are available.
🏕️ Pack All Supplies
No on-site store. Bring food, firewood, and essentials.
🚶♀️ Explore the Streams
Discover hidden waterfalls and beautiful scenery along the streams.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sugar Hill State Forest is praised for its vast acreage, extensive trails for hiking and horseback riding, and the spectacular panoramic views from its fire tower. Visitors appreciate the free access and peaceful atmosphere, though some note the limited water facilities and the need to bring all supplies. It's a great spot for nature lovers and equestrians seeking a rustic outdoor experience.
"There are over 9k acres to unleash your inner explorer. An incredible network of horse and hiking trails makes access possible. Additionally, there is an awesome day use picnic area along with a fire tower that offers patrons the best view in the Finger Lakes region. The restrooms at the tower are great facilities and normally quite clean. Happy exploring fellow explorers!"
matt bush
"He used to go there as a kid all the time forgot how awesome it was.. just took my kids 15 and 10. Spent the night cook dinner Make sure to check out the little waterfalls that are there and explore up and down the stream because there's some absolutely beautiful scenery you will not find anywhere else... Here's a date idea.. Go make dinner at the campsite and then you and your date enjoy it is the sunsets in the fire Tower"
Michael Harrington
"Clean facility with a good amount of space and nice trails to walk or take a horse down. Only complaint was no places to get water besides one sink by the bathrooms."
PuddinCup
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sugar Hill State Forest is located near Watkins Glen, NY. While specific public transport options are limited, it's best accessed by car. GPS coordinates or a reliable map app will guide you to the park entrance and the fire tower area.
Yes, Sugar Hill State Forest is in the vicinity of Watkins Glen, making it a great addition to a trip exploring the Finger Lakes region. Many visitors combine a visit to both.
The fire tower is a key attraction. Follow signs for Sugar Hill State Forest and then look for directions to the fire tower parking area. It's a popular spot, so follow local signage upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Sugar Hill State Forest offers free admission and access to its trails and fire tower. This makes it a budget-friendly destination for exploring the Finger Lakes.
As a state forest, Sugar Hill is generally open from dawn to dusk for day-use activities. Camping facilities may have specific check-in and check-out times. It's always a good idea to check the official NYS Parks website for any seasonal closures or specific hours.
Sugar Hill State Forest offers primitive campsites. While reservations might not always be mandatory, it's highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to secure a spot.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions include hiking the extensive trail network, climbing the fire tower for panoramic views, and primitive camping. You can also enjoy picnicking and exploring the streams.
The hike to the fire tower is generally considered moderate, with some elevation gain. The trails within the forest vary in difficulty, offering options for different fitness levels.
Yes, there are small waterfalls and beautiful scenery to discover along the streams within the forest. While not as grand as those at Watkins Glen, they add to the natural beauty.
Absolutely! Sugar Hill State Forest is very horse-friendly, with an excellent network of equestrian trails and stables available for campers.
It's a photographer's paradise, especially from the fire tower offering sweeping vistas. The trails and streams also provide ample opportunities for nature photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants or food services within Sugar Hill State Forest. Visitors need to bring all their own food and drinks.
The nearby towns of Watkins Glen and Ithaca offer a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants.
Yes, each campsite is equipped with a fire ring. You'll need to bring your own firewood and charcoal for cooking or warmth.
📸 📸 Photography
The fire tower provides the most iconic panoramic shots of the Finger Lakes. The trails, streams, and forest landscapes also offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and golden hues. Sunsets from the fire tower are particularly stunning.
Landscape photography from the fire tower is very popular. Nature photography, including shots of the forest, streams, and any wildlife, is also common.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families: Pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy at the designated day-use area. The trails are generally safe, but always supervise children, especially near water or on uneven terrain. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a great spot for a screen-free getaway.
🐴 Equestrians and Horse Owners
Reviewers consistently praise the quality and maintenance of the trails for horses, noting they offer a good balance of challenge and scenic beauty. The availability of water wells for horse buckets is also a practical advantage.
📸 Photographers and View Seekers
The changing seasons bring different palettes, with fall foliage being particularly spectacular. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best golden hour light for dramatic shots. Beyond the fire tower, the forest itself offers numerous photography opportunities. The winding trails, serene streams, and lush greenery provide a beautiful backdrop for nature photography. Whether you're capturing sweeping panoramas or intricate details of the natural world, Sugar Hill State Forest is a visually rewarding destination.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Fire Tower Experience
The tower is generally well-maintained, and the surrounding restrooms are noted for their cleanliness. It's a prime spot for landscape photography, particularly during sunrise and sunset when the light paints the sky in breathtaking colors. Many visitors recommend combining a visit to the fire tower with a hike on the surrounding trails. The views from the tower provide a fantastic perspective on the vastness of the forest you've just explored. It's a place that truly captures the essence of Upstate New York's natural beauty and is a highlight for many who visit.
Exploring the Trail Network
For equestrians, Sugar Hill is a paradise. The park offers dedicated horse trails and stables for campers, making it a popular destination for those who enjoy riding. The trails provide just the right amount of challenge, ensuring an enjoyable experience for both horse and rider.
Camping and Facilities
While the park offers a peaceful retreat, water access is limited. There is a single sink near the main restrooms, and wells are available for filling buckets for horses. Campers are strongly advised to bring ample water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit