A nice walk along the rim of a scenic small gorge, a walk in a
vineyard, a walk along old railroad tracks and a footbridge placed at a scenic
location are just some of the reasons why this 2.2 mile section of trail is one
of "The Best of the North Country Trail in New York".
This entire section of trail is located on PRIVATE PROPERTY.
You must on the trail at all times. There is NO CAMPING or FIRES allowed
at anytime along this section of trail. There are times where the trail
runs close to cliffs, which can be dangerous and are not suited for everyone.
Starting at the trailhead along County Route 88, your hike
starts out as a stroll in a vineyard with views of the surrounding hills.
You'll see why this area is called "Pleasant Valley". After a quarter mile the trail leaves the vineyard and soon crosses Keuka Lake
Inlet on a well built footbridge. The trail briefly follows the inlet,
which allows for a scenic picture with the stream, vineyard and the hills all in
view.
After leaving the inlet, your next destination is the old
railroad tracks of the Bath & Hammondsport Railroad. Unlike many other
railroad companies, the B & H is still in business. This section of the
railroad is no longer used, however it is part of the original nine miles of the
railroad that was completed back in 1875.
After a level walk in the woods, the trail begins it's journey
along the rim of an emerging gorge. There are larger gorges plus bigger
and
prettier waterfalls in the state. This
small gorge is relatively unknown. For most of your hike on the rim, there are a few views and
the sounds of the rushing Mitchellsville Creek below.
When you reach the gate with the stile, this marks the end of
this easy to moderate 2.2 mile one way hike with a 600+ foot elevation gain.
Simply turn around and retrace your steps for a total hike of 4.4 miles along
one of the best sections of the NCT in New York. Look below for pictures,
a video, a map and detailed description of this great hike.
Directions: From Bath, take NY 54 North.
Turn Left on County Route 88 aka Pleasant Valley Rd and then veer right to stay
on County Route 88. The is a green Finger Lakes Trail sign on your left.
Parking is along the shoulder of the road on the same side as the sign.
