Otisco Lake Preserve
About the Business
Welcome to Otisco Lake Preserve, a stunning natural sanctuary located at 1729-1585 Willowdale Road, Skaneateles, New York. Nestled along the picturesque west side of Otisco Lake, this 36-acre preserve offers visitors a rare glimpse into the unspoiled beauty of the Finger Lakes region. As the Finger Lakes Land Trust’s first conservation area within the watershed, Otisco Lake Preserve is a testament to our commitment to protecting and preserving these vital natural resources.
With over 1,300 feet of untouched shoreline, the preserve is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. It provides a prime habitat for Bald Eagles and a variety of water birds, while ruffed grouse can often be spotted on the forested hillsides. Several cascading streams meander through the mature forest, eventually descending steeply to meet the lake’s edge, where visitors can explore rugged shale cliffs and discover small fossils and unique mineral formations known as concretions.
The preserve is dedicated to Anneke and Thijs Wittink and owes its existence to the generous support of the community and an anonymous donor. Formerly owned by the Stopyro family, the land has a rich history of farming dating back to the 1920s. Today, the preserve offers a half-mile hiking trail, complete with stairs and an interpretive kiosk, providing rare public access to the lakeshore and a rewarding outdoor recreational experience.
Please be mindful of seasonal closures to protect nesting raptors and ensure that all dogs are leashed and under control to preserve the tranquility and safety of the wildlife and other visitors. Prepare for a challenging but rewarding hike, with a 400-foot elevation gain on your way back from the lake.
At Otisco Lake Preserve, we honor the land's indigenous heritage, acknowledging that our preserves exist on the homeland of the Haudenosaunee. We strive to maintain these wild places in their natural state, forever.
For those seeking more adventure, visit Go Finger Lakes, the free website created by the Finger Lakes Land Trust. Discover over 50 hiking, biking, paddling, skiing, and outdoor adventure destinations across the region.
Directions: From Skaneateles, head east on U.S. Route 20 for about half a mile, then turn right onto New York State Route 41 south. Follow Route 41 for 5.5 miles, turn left onto Eibert Road/New York State Route 174 east in Borodino, and after 2 miles, turn right onto Willowdale Road. Continue south on Willowdale Road for approximately 3 miles to the preserve entrance on your left.
Join us in preserving the scenic beauty and ecological integrity of the Finger Lakes. Subscribe to our monthly guide to nature conservation in this beautiful region and become a part of our ongoing efforts to protect these treasured landscapes.
Photos
Location & Phone number
1729-1585 Willowdale Road, Skaneateles, New York 13152, United States
Reviews
"Was very excited to go and see the view and enjoy the lake .. the hike down was very very steep . Ended up turning around 3/4 the way down.. let's not talk about the hike back up... total elevation is 1200 feet. Don't recommend unless you are physically fit"
"Right off the bat, if you dont like walking up or down moderately steep hills, this place is not for you. The majority of the walk is a hill, with not much level ground at all until you get to the bottom. So when you go down, remember you will have to come back up the same hill, so if its an issue, keep it in mind. Trail is short, but the hill really does factor in. Small parking lot that has room for maybe 10 cars. No restrooms. The trail is not marked, but it is very obvious and easy to follow. When you get to the bottom, depending on how high or low Otisco Lake is, will determine how much shoreline you have to walk on. You can walk down and enjoy the lake views, or fish or take a dip. Might have it to yourself, or may be boats there as well. Keep an eye out for Bald Eagles doing some fishing of their own. Best time to see em is earlier in the day. Would be nice if there was a nice view of the lake from up high, but sadly there really isnt. There is a bench about halfway down the trail that has a small view of the lake, but your best views will be at the bottom"
"Worth the descent - your own private shoreline on the lake. Bring a stool if you want to sit (there’s a dead tree available but it may not be there forever). However, what goes down, must come up. Give yourself a half hour to steadily climb back up the trail with rest breaks, and you will have a good time."
"Beautiful scenery,great recreational and fishing in Otisco Lake, OTISCO Valley New York. Otisco Lake preserve is a great addition to the area and a nice way to spend some time taking in Nature."
"The Finger Lakes Land Trust's newest preserve has a short but steep trail down to the lake shore of Otisco Lake where you can explore and enjoy a unique stony beach that is full of shale cliffs and amazing fossils and rock formations. It's pretty rare to have shoreline access in any of the Finger Lakes in the area so this preserve is a nice addition to their holdings and the trail provides some great exercise (not to mention beautiful views). There is an information kiosk and stairs down to the lake but nothing else in the way of amenities."
List of local businesses, places and services in New York
⭐ business help 🔍 services ☎ phones 🕒 opening times ✍️reviews 🌍 addresses, locations 📷 photos