If you’d rather spend a day in the woods than almost anywhere else, Morgan Hill State Forest deserves a spot on your itinerary. It spans over 5,000 acres across Onondaga and Cortland counties. It’s vast, rugged, and genuinely wild — the kind of place that rewards anyone willing to explore it properly.
The Civilian Conservation Corps established the forest in the 1930s. They planted nearly five million conifer seedlings across the hillsides. Today those trees form a dense, beautiful canopy covering nearly half the forest. Native hardwood fills the rest. The combination makes for some of the most atmospheric woodland walking in Central New York.
Nine marked trails cover over 13 miles in total. They range from accessible family-friendly walks to serious multi-hour challenges. The Morgan Hill Loop Trail is the headline act. It covers 12 miles with over 2,000 feet of elevation gain. Along the way it takes in sweeping overlooks, dense forest, small cascades, and the scenic Spruce Pond. It’s rated challenging — and earns that rating. Tinker Falls is one of the forest’s most beloved destinations. It features a stunning waterfall with a shallow cave behind it that you can walk through. The Fellows Hill Loop, meanwhile, climbs to one of the highest points in Onondaga County. And Hemlock Glen delivers a beautiful series of small waterfalls and cascades worth seeking out in any season.
Beyond hiking, the forest suits mountain biking, fishing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and primitive camping. All of it is free and open year round. Spruce Pond has designated campsites. Additionally, primitive camping is permitted anywhere in the forest — as long as you stay at least 150 feet from a road, trail, or water source.
Dogs are welcome on a leash. Access the forest from Shackham Road off Route 80 or 91.