Best Binghamton Area Hiking, Biking and Walking Trails
I'm thinking about getting one of those fitness trackers. While I'm still researching it, I have it narrowed down to three brands. My goal is to hike more this summer. I was surprised to read that moving 6,000 steps a day keeps you healthy and reduces health risks and moving between 8,000 to 10,000 steps per day promotes weight loss. A fitness tracker can give you an idea of how many steps you take in a typical day.
A change of scenery can do you some good. Walking can get so boring walking in a gym or even in your neighborhood. The Greater Binghamton area has a bunch of wonderful hiking and walking trails to enjoy the fresh air and take in some awesome scenery, no matter what the season is.
Here a some you may or may not know about:
- Aqua-Terra Park - Maxian Road in Binghamton - an undeveloped park that puts you in touch with nature, all 466 acres of it. Some great trails and one that runs along the shores of Aqua Terra Pond.
- Binghamton River Walk - I think you'll enjoy this paved trail that begins at Confluence Park and ends at Cheri Lindsey Park.
- Binghamton University Nature Preserve - 4400 Vestal Parkway East in Vestal - 182 acres of land including a 20 acre wetland. Great wildlife viewing.
- Chenango Valley State Park - Route 369, Chenango Forks - I grew up at this park and it's still one of my favorites for hiking, picnic options and a cool lake to swim in.
- Chugnut River Walk - 1200 Clubhouse Road, Endicott - This paved trail starts under the McKinley Avenue bridge and ends at Bridge Street.
- Dorchester Park - Whitney Point - features a 2-mile bike trail and some beautiful scenery to hike.
- Finch Hollow Nature Center - 1394 Oakdale Road, Johnson City - Nature lovers will love these easy-to-walk nature trails winding through field, pond and wooded habitats. A favorite of mine!
- Hawkins Pond Nature Area - 224 Scouten Hill Road, Windsor - 4 miles of hiking and cross-country ski trails.
- IBM Glen - Robinson Hill Road, Johnson City - 200 acres of natural beauty, easily marked.
- Jones Park - State Line Road, Vestal - Great for hiking, skiing and mountain biking, crossing scenic creeks and streams.
- Nathaniel Cole Park - 1674 Colesville Road, Harpursville - Self guided nature trails surrounding a 53-acre lake.
- Otsiningo Park - Bevier Street, Binghamton - Close to downtown and perfect for a brisk walk or a bike ride. Also, check out Otsiningo Park North which starts behind the Northgate Plaza on Upper Front Street, the trail connects to the South end of the main park.
- Port Dickinson Community Park - Chenango Street, Binghamton 0 three-quarter mile walking trail and exercise stations.
- Tracey Creek State Forest in Vestal - no formal trails but great for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding
- Vestal Rail Trail is very popular for hikers and bikers. Pick it up at North Main Street in Vestal and take it to African Road.
- Wolfe Park - Dorman Road, Binghamton - 182 acres with 3.5 miles of hiking trails.
[via Binghamton Convention and Visitors Bureau, Healthy Life magazine]