Hiking

Take a hike on the old logging roads that run through the state lands across the Enchanted Mountains.  Twelve percent (or 99,500 acres) of the county is state and county lands; that gives hikers a large area to explore!  Enjoy the trails at Griffis Sculpture Park as you discover sculptures that dot the hillsides!  Hike the trails at Pfeiffer Nature Center in Portville all year around. Rock City Park in Olean offers trails that lead you over, under, around and through the gigantic rocks.

Allegany State Park

Allegany State Park has a lot of hiking trails. Download the Allegany State Park Visitors Map or request that we mail you one.

Pat McGee Trail

This multi-purpose trail will grow to be a county-wide system but at this time it connects the Village of Cattaraugus to the City of Salamanca. You can hike, bike, snowmobile or ride horse on the Pat McGee Trail. Get more information on the Pat McGee trail.

Allegheny River Valley Trail

Hundreds of people use this trail that surrounds the City of Olean and the Village of Allegany every day! Get more information on the Allegheny River Valley Trail.

The Conservation Trail/Finger Lakes Trail - White Blazes

This hiking trail begins in Allegany State Park and runs to Fancy Tract, near Machias. This trail has strenuous climbs and elevations range from 1,300 to 2,300 feet.

Conservation Trail - Orange Blazes

This hiking trail runs north from the Conservation/Finger Lakes Trail junction to Cattaraugus Creek. This trail is moderately difficult with elevation ranging from 1,230 to 1,920 feet.

Finger Lakes Trail - White Blazes

This hiking trail continues east from the Conservation/Finger Lakes Trail junction to the County border. This trail is moderately difficult with a peak elevation of 2,078 feet. Information: Conservation Trail - This trail is unique in that for 55 miles from the Pennsylvania border to near Fancy Tract, it is used as the main Finger Lakes Trial. It moves north another 80 miles to Akron Falls Park. Get more information on the Finger Lakes Trail.

Finger Lakes Trail System

This systems consists of the Finger Lakes Trail beginning at the Pennsylvania border and runs 500 miles east to the Long Path in the Catskills. This trail is marked with white blazes on trees and posts, and identifier discs. This system also has 200 miles of branch trails. These are marked in the same manner except the color is orange. Side trails are marked in blue. Double blazes are used to mark turns or conditions of the trail. Get more information on the Finger Lakes Trail.

Boyce Hill State Forest/DEC Loop Trail

The Finger Lakes/North Country Trail goes directly through this small State Forest also, but there is a specific short loop that can be enjoyed.  It is approximately 2.75 miles and offers many views of animals and has a beautiful pond to relax by.  Easy day hike for any level of experience.  See map. 

Geology Trail

Rock out at many places in Cattaraugus County along the Cattaraugus County Geology Trail.

Zoar Valley

Bordering Erie and Cattaraugus County, Zoar Valley Multiple Use Area encompasses approximately 2,939 acres of land commonly used for hiking.  Be noted however, this can be a very dangerous place with large drop offs, vast wilderness, and sweeping currents.  You will however, find hours and hours of hiking to enjoy.  Deer Lick Conservation Area is a specific part of Zoar Valley and used very commonly for hikers.  See map. 

For more information on Zoar Valley please go to www.dec.ny.gov/lands/36931.html.

Meetup with the Local Activity Group

Do you like to hike, bike, paddle, cross country ski or snowshoe? The Olean Area Hiking group does those activities and more! People email suggested outings and those interested attend. They meetup with other regional outdoor groups too (such as those in Buffalo, Jamestown, Rochester and others).

The benefits:

• Share favorite places and learn about new ones.
• Get great exercise in pretty locations.
• Share tips on conditions and on equipment.
• Socialize with others who appreciate nature.
• There is a wide range of experience among members.
• Learn new skills.

Check the Olean Area Hiking group site for more information.