Oneida County is in the central section of New York State, east of Syracuse and west of Albany.  A small portion of Adirondack Park is in the northeastern part of the county.  Part of the Tug Hill Plateau is in the northern part of the county.  At an elevation of 1945 feet, Tassell Hill  is the county high point located in the southern part of the county.

Because of its location, the county gets many feet of lake effect snow each year.  This makes the area very popular with those seeking outdoor winter recreation.  Its an area worth exploring any time of the year.  The county seat is in Utica and the 2008 estimated county population was 231,590.

The Black River Environmental Improvement Association or BREIA is located in the county and is a not-for-profit corporation funded by a private family foundation, as a gift to the people of New York.  Access to the trails and facilities is free, and donations are never accepted. The trails remain open throughout the year, and offer hiking and biking opportunities during the warm seasons.

BREIA has many miles of trails available with three main areas of trails to explore.  The Black River Canal Trail runs from just south of Pixley Falls State Park to Booneville.  This trail follows the old Black River Canal Towpath.  The canal was built between 1837 and 1855.  The Egypt Road Trail System is a favorite with visitors.  The Jackson Hill Trail System is located in Jackson Hill State Forest and has fine views and spectacular landscapes.  The area is worth exploring.

A portion of the 4600 mile North Country National Scenic Trail travels through Oneida County, first along the old Erie Canal Towpath and later along the old Black River Canal Towpath.  The North Country Trail (NCT) travels from North Dakota to Crown Point in New York.  Sections of this long distance trail are still under construction within the county as well as other places along the trail.  When completed, the trail will be the longest continual hiking trail in the United States.

The scenic Trenton Falls Trails are only open a few days each year.  Check their website to find out when you can visit this beautiful place.

Oneida County is home to three state parks, numerous state forests as well as Fort Stanwix National Monument in Rome.  Oriskany Battlefield State Historic Site and Steuben Memorial State Historic Site are also located in the county.  Be sure to explore the hiking trails at Rome Sands Unique Area as well as Utica Marsh Wildlife Management Area.  The Utica Marsh WMA has two observation towers as well as a viewing platform.  Don't forget about the Erie Canal Trail.

Look below for links to help plan your next outdoor adventure in Oneida County.  If there are trails and places you'd like us to add, please email us at contact@cnyhiking.com.  Thanks for visiting our site.  We hope that we were able to assist you in planning your next outdoor adventure.

Outdoor Recreational Opportunities in Oneida County

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