The Catharine Valley Trail
Step into Nature. Walk through History.
Discover the tranquil beauty of the Catharine Creek Wildlife Area, a hidden gem in New York’s Finger Lakes region. With its rich wetlands, vibrant wildlife, and direct connection to the historic Catharine Valley Trail, this 784-acre marshland destination offers something for everyone whether you’re a birder, fisher, hiker, cyclist, or simply seeking peace in nature.
What Makes the Catharine Creek Wildlife Area Special?
- Vast Marsh Complex: Formed by lake sedimentation, the WMA is comprised of 71% emergent marsh and 12% forested wetland, which makes this a prime bird habitat.
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Designated Conservation Area: It's recognized both as an Audubon Important Bird Area and a New York Bird Conservation Area.
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Rich Biodiversity: Home to at least 64 bird species including egrets, rails, bitterns, ospreys, bald eagles and warblers, and 29 fish species in its waterways.
The Catharine Valley Trail
The Catharine Valley Trail is a scenic 12-mile nature trail stretching from Watkins Glen to the EK Birding Trail. It offers a flat, picturesque route for walking, running, cycling, and more. Following former canal towpaths and railway lines, the trail blends natural beauty with local history. Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace™ principles, respecting wildlife, staying on marked paths, and carrying out all trash to help preserve this treasured landscape for future generations.
Take a walk on the peaceful Seneca Pier, visit the stunning gorge at Watkins Glen State Park, or the nearby falls.
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Accessibility: Wide, well-maintained paths.
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Surface: Crushed stone and shaded forest paths.
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Points of Interest: Waterfalls, historic markers, wildlife viewing spots.
Things To Do
Wildlife & Bird Watching
Bring binoculars. This is a marsh bird haven with trails that run through cattail fields and alongside the barge canal.
Hiking & Biking
The flat, easy-going Catharine Valley Trail provides an immersive and accessible experience. It is great for families and casual strolls.
Fishing & Kayaking
Canoe and Kayak through calm marsh channels. Anglers love the spring rainbow trout runs, plus brown trout and salmon in the fall.
Trail Heritage
Explore Cook Cemetery and the Queen Catharine Monument to honor the region’s rich heritage and the legacy of the Seneca people.
Pet Friendly
Bring your furry friends along for the adventure—up to two pets are welcome on the trail when leashed and under control.
Year-Round Activities
From summer bike rides to winter cross-country skiing, the trail offers outdoor adventures year-round.
Explore The Catharine Valley Trail Interactive App
Available in six languages: English, Spanish, French, German, Hindi, and Mandarin, the Catharine Valley Trail app brings the rich history, vibrant nature, and hidden gems of both the Catharine Valley Trail and the Catharine Creek Wildlife Management Area to your fingertips. Enjoy self-guided tours featuring photos, audio, and local stories as you journey through the historic trail route.
The app works offline, so you can access maps and information even in the most remote areas, ensuring visitors from around the world can fully enjoy the beauty and heritage of the trail.”
Scan The QR Code Below To Download The App
iOS
Google Play
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