Less People. More Nature.
Go for a casual stroll along the river or immerse yourself in nature with a hike through the woods. Wherever you choose to wander, you're sure to find a trail that's fun for you and the whole family.
Great 8 Hiking Challenges
What are The Great 8 Trail Challenges?
The Great 8 Challenges have been designed to introduce you to new trails and experiences across the great county (the largest in New York!), year round. All of the challenge trails are family friendly and can be explored if you're new to the outdoors, a seasoned hiker or somewhere in between!
Three Unique Challenge Series'
Riverside Run - Follow trails along St. Lawrence County’s five major rivers, with water views, varied terrain and options for both shorter walks and longer hikes.
Nature Nuts - Get closer to the outdoors on nature-focused trails featuring interpretive signs, wildlife viewing areas, boardwalks, birding opportunities and scenic landscapes.
Waterfall Crawl - Discover waterfalls tucked between the Adirondack foothills and the St. Lawrence Seaway on scenic trails ranging from quick walks to longer hikes through forests and along rushing waterways.
Earn a Trail Badge
(Patches & Stickers available too!)
The Great 8 includes trails for all ages and abilities. Explore your favorites or hike all 8 in any one of the trifecta category to earn yourself a Great 8 badge.
To join the official challenge, log your trails on STLCtrails.com with a free user account. Once you have a trail log for every the trail in a challenge series, you'll earn a congratulatory email with a digital badge. Display your achievement to all your family and friends with a Great 8 Challenge patch or sticker available for purchase here.
Four Seasons of Hiking
Crisp & Colorful Autumn Hikes
The changing of the seasons offers some of the most vibrant and beautiful fall colors mother nature puts on display. Our annual leaf spotters submit foliage reports to NYS fall foliage map so you can plan your fall hikes with the leaves in mind.
For a relatively easy hike with hardcore fall views, try Mt. Arab.
Sunny Trails of Summer
The North Country is your playground for trails in the summertime. Hike along rivers, lakes and streams, immerse yourself in the Adirondack foothills for a day or an overnight, or take a relaxing stroll to leave behind the hustle and bustle.
Not sure where to start? Try the Great 8 Nature Nuts or River Run Challenge.
Scenic & Snowy Winter Walks
Winter is a unexpectedly perfect time to rediscover your favorite trails or to find yourself in awe at a new winter wonder. Try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing to find frozen waterfalls and fresh snow-scapes.
Not sure about trekking through the snow? Test your abilities at the Nicandri Nature Center in Massena, offering free ski an snowshoe rentals with miles of trails that are great for beginners.
Put Some Spring in Your Step
Spring is the best time to see the region's waterfalls. With snowmelt flowing, birds chirping, and the greenery and flowers in bloom, it's an excellent time to get outside to experience something fresh and new.
Check out the Great 8 Waterfall Crawl for popular waterfalls to check out.
Interactive Trail Map
For an in-depth look at where to hike and walk, including an interactive trail map with directions, distances, and trail descriptions, check out www.STLCtrails.com.
Easy Walks for Beginners
Look for something a little more chill? Find shorter, easier, more relaxed walks that are still filled with beauty, wonder, and nature.
