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ForestMatters, LLC

Blueberry Patch Trail

Finger Lakes National Forest, New York · 3 min read

Distance
1.8 mi
Elevation Gain
80 ft
Difficulty
easy
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
May through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
1 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
None
Camping
Developed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Wild blueberry picking from mid-July through early August
  • Grassland and forest edge habitat for bobolinks and meadowlarks
  • Access to Blueberry Patch primitive campground
  • Short and flat, accessible for most hikers
  • Open views across the Finger Lakes ridge

Overview

The Blueberry Patch Trail at Finger Lakes National Forest loops through one of the forest's most distinctive landscapes: open grasslands and shrubby meadows on the Seneca-Cayuga ridge that transition to forest edge hardwood and back to the open. The trail is the primary access point for the wild blueberry picking that the forest is locally famous for, and it doubles as an excellent grassland birding route in spring and summer.

The 1.8-mile loop is the easiest trail in the forest and is natural for families, casual walkers, or anyone who wants a taste of the national forest without committing to a longer hike.

The Route

Miles 0.0 to 0.6: Campground to Open Grassland

From the Blueberry Patch Campground parking area, the trail heads north through a short forest section before emerging into open grassland managed by the USFS under a grazing lease. The grazing maintains the open character that supports both blueberries and grassland birds. The grassland sections are flat and exposed: good for wide views across the ridge.

Miles 0.6 to 1.2: Blueberry Sections

The mid-section of the loop passes through the densest blueberry areas, where lowbush blueberries carpet the ground between patches of fescue and other grasses. In July and August the berries are visible at ankle height as small, blue-black clusters. The trail is marked but the open terrain makes navigation easy with or without blazes.

Miles 1.2 to 1.8: Forest Edge Return

The return leg passes through a forest-edge section with taller shrubs and scattered maples before returning to the campground. Bobolinks are most often seen in this transition zone in June.

When to Hike

Mid-July through August: Peak blueberry picking. Plan to spend extra time grazing while you walk.

May and June: Peak grassland birding. Bobolinks are displaying in the open fields. The trail is green and the wildflowers are blooming.

September and October: Quieter season. Berries are gone but fall color on the forest edge is pleasant.

What to Bring

A container for blueberries if visiting in season. Water from home (no water source at the campground). Sunscreen for the open grassland sections. Binoculars for birding.

Trailhead Access

The Blueberry Patch Campground is on Picnic Area Road off Burnt Hill Road. Gravel surface, free parking. Vault toilets at the campground. No water available. No permit required (as of 2026). Dogs welcome on leash.

Nearby

The Gorge Trail is the most substantial hike in the forest and a natural pairing for a full-day visit. The Backbone Trail passes through similar open ridge terrain. Review Leave No Trace principles: take only what you'll eat and leave the berry patches intact for wildlife and other visitors.

Trailhead Parking

Gravel lot at Blueberry Patch Campground. Free.

← Back to Finger Lakes National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is blueberry picking at its best on this trail?
Wild lowbush blueberries typically peak from mid-July through early August in most years. Earlier in warm summers, later in cool ones. The berries are small, flavorful, and abundant in good years on the open grassland sections.
Is blueberry picking allowed in the national forest?
Personal consumption picking of wild berries is generally permitted on national forests (as of 2026). Commercial picking requires a permit. Check current USFS Finger Lakes rules at the forest's official website to confirm current policy.
Is this trail good for birding?
Yes. The open grassland sections host breeding bobolinks, meadowlarks, and grassland sparrows in spring and summer: species that have become increasingly rare in the Northeast. The forest edge adds warblers and vireos. Early morning visits in May and June are best.