FLT/NCT in Shindagin Hollow: Western Section
This section of the Finger Lakes Trail/North Country Trail is more challenging than the eastern portion of Shindagin Hollow, but the forest setting and scenery make it well worth the effort. This hike is especially nice during the fall months, where beautiful foliage can be seen across the Long Valley and throughout much of the forest.
Map of the Shindagin Hollow Western 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 trailhead for this hike is located on Shindagin Hollow Road, at the same parking area for the eastern section. If you are hiking this in the winter, it is recommended that you park on the western end of the out-and-back, on White Church Road. This is because Shindagin Hollow Road isn’t plowed in the winter. The GPS coordinates are 42.32205, -76.33260.
From the trailhead (1200’), you will need to follow the road southbound for a few hundred feet. You will then see a yellow FLT trailhead sign at the base of a steep hill. Turn right and start climbing, following the white blazes. This first section of the trail is pretty steep, as you climb up the steep slopes of Shindagin Hollow. The trail climbs mostly sideways up the hill, but there are occasional sections where it’s straight up, making it somewhat technical. After 0.6 miles, the trail levels out (1500’) and follows the edge of the hill. There are some nice views into the valley.
The trail then turns west and crosses a dirt road at 1.1 miles. It then continues through rolling hills, eventually descending to a campsite and creek. At this point, mountain bike trails start intersecting the FLT which can make for confusing trail junctions. Continue following the white blazes to avoid leaving the trail. At 1.7 miles, the trail crosses Braley Hill Road (1510’). There is a parking area just north of this intersection, allowing for a shorter hike.
After the road crossing, the trail gradually ascends through a mixed forest before reaching the high point of the hike at 2.2 miles (1680’).
From here, it’s a steep descent to the western end of the hike. The trail starts off gradual, but starts to steepen as it gets further down the hill. The maximum steepness is a 30% grade. After a while, there will be some views in the fall and winter months. In the steep sections, there are some switchbacks to help ease the descent.
The trail finally reaches the valley at 3.2 miles. It crosses a stream on puncheons before entering a large field. There are great views of the surrounding hills. At 3.5 miles, the trail reaches White Church Road, the western end of this hike (1040’). Retrace your steps to the trailhead. Total distance for this hike is 6.9 miles with 1,490 feet of elevation gain.
