PLACES TO EXPLORE

This 12,242-acre state forest is so named because it is located entirely on the Tug Hill Plateau, an area that is renowned for its harsh winters and heavy snowfalls.

The trails along Inman Gulf on the northern edge of the state forest provide spectacular vistas into the 200- to more than 300-foot deep canyon. John Young’s Trail, Oak Rim and Inman Glide Trails follow the top of the gulf for 4.6 miles.

Cut by Forest Ranger and THTLT member Dave Larrabee, with help from Bill Blodgett, this trail runs along the edge of Inman Gulf and through some hilly sections.

Scenic Rainbow Falls may be seen on the north side of the rim; gulf Stream courses along the bottom of Inman Gulf. Be cautious when crossing Williams Truck Road because it is a main snowmobile route. The Falls are often completely frozen in the winter.

In summer, five parking areas along Williams Truck Road allow people to choose loops of different length. Intrepid hikers will be rewarded with rare wildflowers, and you can even enjoy a picnic with views of Inman Gulf along the John Young Nature Trail.

Year-Round Trails

Home to some of the best XC skiing in Tug Hill this DEC managed forest is the place to go for epic snow.

The trails are often groomed after a heavy snowfall, and locals head out early in the morning for first tracks. In addition to miles of XC ski trails, there are also some lovely snowshoe loops like the Oak Rim Trail.

Because of the heavy snow cover that this area endures for nearly half of the year, it is no surprise that winter sports such as snowmobiling, snowshoeing, dogsledding, and cross-country skiing dominate the local recreational scene highlighted by the well-known 13.2 miles of Barnes Corners Cross-country Ski Trail System. Fall and winter activities include white-tailed deer and snowshoe hare hunting, spring and summer activities include hiking, biking, and brook trout fishing.

Access to the area is provided by more than 16 miles of graveled forest roads.

See the various driving directions

315-376-3521 (NYSDEC Region 6 Lowville Office)