Overview
The Interloken Trail is the most comprehensive route in Finger Lakes National Forest, looping 12 miles through nearly all of the forest's terrain types: open managed grassland, second-growth hardwood forest, old field edge, and the ridge terrain overlooking the two flanking Finger Lakes. The trail takes its name from the "inter-loken" position of the forest between Seneca Lake to the west and Cayuga Lake to the east.
The multi-use designation means the trail is shared with horseback riders and mountain bikers. Hikers should be prepared to encounter horse groups on summer weekends, particularly in the open grassland sections. The trail surfaces reflect this shared use: some sections have been widened and graveled, while others are more natural single-track.
The Route
Miles 0.0 to 3.0: Grassland and Open Ridge
From the Blueberry Patch Campground area, the trail heads west through the managed grasslands that dominate the central forest. This section is the widest and most open. In July and August, wild blueberries are accessible just off the trail. The ridge terrain gives filtered views toward Seneca Lake's valley. Horse traffic is heaviest here.
Miles 3.0 to 7.0: Forest Interior
The trail enters a more forested section with mature hardwoods and occasional hemlock. The surface narrows to single-track through the forest. Wildlife viewing improves in this section: deer, turkey, and woodland birds are common. Two seasonal stream crossings occur between miles 4.5 and 5.5.
Miles 7.0 to 10.0: South Slope and Ridge
The southern loop swings through the south slope of the ridge with intermittent views toward the Seneca Lake valley. The trail character varies here with alternating forest and meadow sections.
Miles 10.0 to 12.0: Return to Campground
The final section passes near the Gorge Trail junction and returns to the campground area through mixed open and forested terrain.
When to Hike
May through October: Full access. Horse traffic peaks on summer weekends.
November: Deer hunting season begins: blaze orange strongly recommended.
Winter: Trail is accessible for snowshoeing. No grooming.
What to Bring
Carry all water: no reliable sources on the trail. 2 to 2.5 liters for the full loop. Poles are helpful on the rooted forest sections. Plan for possible wet/muddy conditions in spring and after rain due to horse traffic churning the surface.
Trailhead Access
Primary trailhead at Blueberry Patch Campground on Picnic Area Road. Vault toilets. Free parking. No permit required (as of 2026). Dogs welcome on leash.
Nearby
The Gorge Trail branches off near the southern section of the Interloken loop. The Blueberry Patch Trail covers the same open terrain in a shorter version. For a longer trip combining national forest and nearby state park hiking, see checking conditions before you go for current state park trail status. Review Leave No Trace principles before your visit.