A dream that began around a campfire is becoming a reality thanks to the dedication, grit, and teamwork of our staff and volunteers. The vision? A hiking trail stretching through the heart of Tug Hill, connecting communities and immersing hikers in some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the region.
Today, that vision is halfway complete. Ten miles of the Tug Hill Traverse Trail are now open, starting at the Tug Hill Wildlife Management Area in the Town of Montague, crossing G&W Road, and continuing to Michigan Mills Road in the Town of West Turin. When finished, the trail will span more than 20 miles—winding past quiet wetlands, following rushing streams, and weaving through stands of towering hemlock.
This is no ordinary trail. As the first non-motorized, moderately difficult hiking trail of its kind in the region, the Tug Hill Traverse offers something special: views of the East Branch of Fish Creek, bird-filled wetlands, rugged rock outcrops, and the peaceful solitude of the big woods.
The effort is being led by volunteer trail designer and coordinator Bob McNamara, who is working side by side with seasonal volunteers and with the support of partners including the Black River Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the New York State Tug Hill Commission, and The Nature Conservancy.
“We’ve had incredible help from our volunteers, and every mile completed is a testament to their hard work,” says Heidi Sourwine, Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust Associate Director. “It’s inspiring to see people come together to build something that will connect so many people to the land.”
Work on the remaining 10 miles will continue this season, bringing the trail closer to its full length—and to becoming a lasting resource for hikers, birders, and nature lovers from near and far.
Our next volunteer trail clearing day is Saturday, August 16th, 2025. Email Lin at lgibbs@