Lindsay-Parsons Biodiversity Preserve

Difficulty // Moderate

Activities // Hiking, Snowshoeing, Cross-country Skiing, Running

Distance // 3.5 miles

Features // Lakes visible, Scenic vistas, Unique wildlife viewing, Dog-friendly (on leash)

Route Type // Loop

Estimated hiking time // 1 hr 10 mins

Open year-round.

Hunting allowed, use caution.

Surface types // Earth

Trail markers // yes

The Finger Lakes Land Trust’s Lindsay-Parsons Biodiversity Preserve in the town of West Danby consists of 554 acres of forests, meadows, brushland, gorges, streams, kettle ponds and wetlands. Several trails comprising a total of 3.8 miles are open for hiking, skiing, and birding. The diverse habitats found in the preserve are home to an equally diverse variety of flora and fauna. Some rare species have been identified in the preserve and it provides an exceptional place for bird watching.

Additionally, the preserve’s value for wildlife is enhanced by the fact that it borders Danby State Forest and sits along the Cayuga Inlet. Due to the size and diversity of this preserve, it is ideal for use by area colleges and schools for different educational purposes. A wetland overlook offering plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities can be found on Sylvan Lane next to the West Danby Firehouse. Opposite the main preserve entrance, the wetlands are home to river otters, Great Blue Herons, Kingfishers, and many other creatures.