The Farm Tower Trail is accessed across NY 80
from the main Rogers Center parking area. On the right side of the duck
pond is the main start of this trail. By combining the Pine Ridge Trail
you create a pleasant 1.1 mile loop hike that features panoramic views from the
"farm tower". This hike is easy with a 132 foot elevation gain and can be
enjoyed by all members of the family (except dogs). No dogs are allowed on
the trails at the Rogers Center.
Start your hike from the main parking area and
cross NY 80 at the crosswalk. Walk to the right of the large pond and soon
arrive at the trail register plus official start of this hike. There was
no paper to sign the register and no maps available here when we hiked this on
7/26/2010.
Soon pass under power lines and turn right on the
mowed path. At 0.2 miles reach a split. Turn left here on the mowed
path and continue to ascend. At 0.3 miles reach the junction of the Pine
Ridge Trail. Turn right and follow the path along the side of the corn
field.
At 0.4 miles cross a dirt road. The trail
crosses the road, jogs left and enters pines. At 0.6 miles the trail
emerges out of the woods and travels across the corn field. At 0.7 miles
the trail turns left onto a dirt road and soon you'll see the farm tower,
arriving at the tower at 0.8 miles. There are already views, climb the
tower for more views. This is a nice spot to spread a blanket for a
picnic.
To return back to the parking area, take the
mowed path on the left. At 1.0 miles reach the original split, staying
straight then turning left under the power lines. Soon reach and cross NY
80 to arrive back to the main parking area. Below are pictures, a video
and map of this hike.
Directions: The Rogers Center is
located on NY 80 a few miles west of Sherburne. Park in the main parking
area on NY 80 to access this hike.
