Fischer Old-growth Forest Natural Area

Difficulty // Moderate, Difficult

Activities // Hiking, Snowshoeing

Distance // 1.5 miles

Features // Scenic vistas, Waterfalls & Gorges, Unique wildlife viewing, Dog-friendly (on leash)

Route Type // Loop

Estimated hiking time // 36 mins

Not open year-round.

Hunting allowed, use caution.

Surface types // Earth

Trail markers // red blaze, blue blaze, yellow blaze

Cornell Botanic Gardens Fischer Old-growth Forest Natural Area is described as majestic, magical, and inspirational. With trees over 150 feet tall, this ancient forest is a sanctuary in every sense of the word. The blue blazed trail loops around a meadow and shrubland that has established since it was abandoned from agricultural use. The red blazed trail passes through young forest before entering an ancient forest with an exceptional diversity of tree species and sizes–many over 300 years old! This old-growth forest is considered the best of the few remaining pre-European settlement forests in the region. Hiker’s note: The trail crosses a small gorge, traverses some steep forested slopes, and has a creek crossing.