FLT/NCT in Shindagin Hollow: Eastern Section

 This section of the Finger Lakes Trail/North Country Trail ascends a hill following a wooded gorge, passing by the scenic Shindagin lean-to. This hike has some ascent but it’s not as steep as the western section. For more information about the western section of the trail, visit its webpage, which is linked to our Tompkins County page.

Map of the Shindagin Hollow Eastern Section

Link to step-by-step RunGo directions, which can be used in real-time on the trail with the RunGo app. You can also navigate with the AllTrails map.

The parking area for this hike is on the shoulder of Shindagin Hollow Road (seasonal). The GPS coordinates are 42.32205, -76.33260. This road isn’t plowed in the winter, so it is recommended that you park on South Road and hike this backwards.

From the parking area (1200’), pick up the Finger Lakes Trail/North Country Trail on the east side of the road and follow the white blazes. The trail immediately crosses a stream on a wooden bridge. After the crossing, the trail starts to moderately ascend a hill, heading southeast.

At 0.1 miles, the trail turns left on an old logging road. The grade levels out and the trail begins to head northeast. Soon after, the trail turns left, away from the old road. Continue to follow white blazes.

At 0.6 miles, you will pass the Shindagin lean-to (1350’). There is a scenic gorge nearby and the lean-to is surrounded by a beautiful Hemlock forest. The trail then descends and crosses a small tributary.

After a long gradual ascent, the trail passes by an old foundation on the right, as well as a register box for the FLT Passport Program. At 1.3 miles, the trail reaches South Road (1720’). Retrace your steps and return to the trailhead. Total distance for this hike is 2.6 miles out-and-back with 540 feet of elevation gain.