Finger Lakes Trail County Hike Series Comes to Cattaraugus County in 2026
Hikers will explore forests, state parks, Seneca Nation land, and scenic rural trails as the Finger Lakes Trail County Hike Series returns to Cattaraugus County this summer
One of New York's most beloved long-distance hiking programs is rolling through our backyard this summer - and there's still time to be part of it!
The Finger Lakes Trail Conference (FLTC) is bringing its 2026 County Hike Series to Cattaraugus County, New York, and the lineup is among the most ambitious in recent memory. Across the season, hikers will cover approximately 95 miles of scenic rural trails, ski slopes, quaint towns, and beautiful state land, passing through eight State Forests, respected Seneca Nation land, and the fan-favorite, Allegany State Park.
The series is built around one simple idea: take the logistical headaches out of long-distance hiking. Group hikes are led by experienced Hike Leaders and include bus shuttle service from the end to the starting point of each hike, plus a SAG (Supply and Gear) Wagon with snacks and refreshments. Park once, hike point-to-point, ride back to your car. Volunteer guides lead groups on Saturdays and/or Sundays with hikes scheduled through September, for a total of eight hikes - and Independent Hikes let you complete the route on your own by the end of 2026.
The series moves to a new county each year, with one feature that keeps people coming back: it continues where the previous year's hikes ended, so over time, regular participants can gradually experience the entire main FLT.
"We aim to take the stress out of planning a long-distance hike," says Lyndsie Doyle, FLTC's Director of Engagement. "We want hikers to enjoy the experience without worrying about logistics or missing some of the best views and trails in the region."
Originally launched in 1991 by Finger Lakes Trail volunteer Ed Sidote in Chenango County near the eastern end of the trail, the concept quickly proved popular. Over the course of several years, the series moved westward along the Finger Lakes Trail, county by county, allowing hikers to explore large stretches of the trail while building a strong community of outdoor enthusiasts. By the time the first run of the series reached Cattaraugus County in 1997, nearly 1,000 participants had taken part.
The program was revived in 2002 and has continued as one of the Finger Lakes Trail Conference’s most popular organized hiking events. Today, the County Hike Series follows the same spirit as the original program, offering guided hikes that allow participants to explore a different county along the trail each year.
The County Hike Series continues to serve as both a celebration of the Finger Lakes Trail and a way to introduce new hikers to the trail community. By combining guided hikes, volunteer leadership, and shared transportation, the program makes it easier for people of all experience levels to discover the beauty of the Finger Lakes Trail. More information about the Finger Lakes Trail and the County Hike Series, including a list of this year’s hikes and registration links, can be found at fingerlakestrail.org.