This section of the Finger Lakes Trail & North Country Trail begins off Comfort Road and enters the 7100 acre Danby State Forest.  After a level walk the trail crosses Bald Hill Road and begins its descent toward Michigan Creek.  It is during this section where you will pass Chestnut Lean To.  Just prior to Michigan Creek is the junction of the western terminus of the orange blazed Abbott Loop Trail.  This loop trail leads to the spectacular views of Thatcher's Pinnacle and is a very popular 8 mile loop hike via the FLT/NCT.

The footbridge that crosses Michigan Creek is called "Diane's Crossing".  After crossing Michigan Hollow Road the trail begins a steep ascent before descending again, only to climb again then descend again before reaching the junction of the eastern terminus of the orange blazed Abbott Loop Trail.

The trail continues it's up and downs, while crossing two seasonal dirt roads.  The trail has one last descent as it winds toward South Danby Road and the end of this section.  Look below for a map and description of this section of the trail.  This stretch of trail is featured on the map M17 from the FLTC.

Chestnut Lean To in Danby State Forest

DIRECTIONS - From Ithaca, NY 96B south, then right on W Miller Rd.  Turn left on Comfort Rd.  Take Comfort Road to the State Forest boundary (just prior to left bend in road).  You will see the Finger Lakes Trail sign on left.