Welcome to Owego, a charming gateway to the natural beauty of the Southern Tier and beyond! As your hosts at The Belva Lockwood Inn, we’re thrilled to guide you to some of the breathtaking hiking trails within easy reach. Whether you prefer a gentle riverside stroll or a more challenging trek through gorges and forests, this region offers a diverse range of outdoor adventures. Get ready to lace up your boots and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes surrounding Owego, extending as far as the renowned Finger Lakes destinations of Ithaca and Watkins Glen.
Unique Local “Hikes” & Trails Near Owego
You don’t have to travel far for a stunning hike. Beautiful Owego offers numerous escapes.
Evergreen Cemetery: Owego’s Panoramic Perch (Owego, NY):
Founded in 1851, Evergreen Cemetery is more than just a burial ground; it’s an archetypal example of the “Rural Cemetery” movement, designed as a park-like setting on a towering hillside. While a place of remembrance for over 9,200 residents, including figures important to local, state, national, and even world history, Evergreen offers a unique “hike” or scenic drive. The paved incline leads to the highest point in the original cemetery, where the 17-foot white marble Sa-Sa-Na Loft monument stands. Believed to be the oldest monument in the US dedicated to a Native woman, it offers panoramic views of Owego Village and the Susquehanna River Valley, a vista once featured in Erie Railroad advertisements. Explore the grounds on foot or via the Evergreen Cemetery virtual tour on your phone.
- Evergreen Cemetery Virtual Tour: Interactive Virtual Tour Map
- Distance from The Belva Lockwood Inn: Approximately 0.8 miles (a short drive or pleasant uphill walk).
- Difficulty: Easy (paved roads and paths, some inclines).
- Highlights: Panoramic views of Owego, historic monuments (including Sa-Sa-Na Loft, Helen Dean King’s grave, Oscar Barton’s grave), park-like setting, virtual tour available.
Waterman Center Trails (Apalachin, NY):
Tucked away in the hills just outside of Owego in Apalachin, the Waterman Center boasts 5 miles of trails winding through diverse habitats. Explore ponds, forests, shrublands, and fields, attracting a variety of nesting birds, mammals, and amphibians. The serene sounds of the stream running through a small gorge are a highlight of any hike here. With trails suitable for all ages and levels, you might even stumble upon a hidden climbing wall along your journey! Don’t forget to visit the center itself to see their wonderful animals and exhibits.
- Website: Waterman Center Trails
- Distance from The Belva Lockwood Inn: Approximately 7.5 miles (a short 15-minute drive).
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (varied terrain).
- Highlights: Diverse habitats, stream and small gorge, potential wildlife sightings, hidden climbing wall, educational center.
Hiawatha Island Trails (Owego, NY):
The 112-acre historic Hiawatha Island rests in the Susquehanna River between Owego and Apalachin. Once a popular recreational site, riverboat destination, a working farm, and the site of a grand hotel, the island is now a nature preserve owned and managed by the Waterman Conservation Center. It’s home to hundreds of flora and fauna species, including several listed on the state endangered species listing. A nesting pair of bald eagles currently calls Hiawatha home. Remnants of farm buildings are accessible from the trails that allow guided exploration of the island on foot. It’s a favorite stop on the Tioga Paddle Trail. Please note: There is no bridge to Hiawatha Island. Access is by kayak or canoe. You can rent these from Owego Row ‘N’ Ride.
- Owego Row ‘N’ Ride Facebook Page: Owego Row ‘N’ Ride
- Distance from The Belva Lockwood Inn: Approximately 1 mile to access point for kayak/canoe launch.
- Difficulty: Easy (walking trails on the island).
- Highlights: River views, birdwatching, nature preserve, history.
- Video: Hiawatha Island: A Southern Tier Snapshot [00:00]
Venturing Towards Ithaca (Approximately 1 Hour Drive)
The Ithaca area remains a hiker’s paradise, renowned for its stunning gorges and waterfalls.
Taughannock Falls State Park (Trumansburg, NY):
Home to one of the tallest free-falling waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains, this park offers several trails with spectacular gorge and waterfall views. The Gorge Trail provides an easy walk to the base of the falls, while the Rim Trails offer breathtaking panoramic vistas.
- Address: 1740 Taughannock Blvd, Trumansburg, NY 14886
- Website: Taughannock Falls State Park – NYS Parks
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.
- Highlights: Towering waterfall, dramatic gorge scenery, rim trail overlooks.
Buttermilk Falls State Park (Ithaca, NY):
This popular park features a beautiful cascading waterfall and several trails that wind through the gorge and surrounding woodlands. Enjoy swimming in the natural pool at the base of the falls in season.
- Address: 112 E Buttermilk Falls Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
- Website: Buttermilk Falls State Park – NYS Parks
- Difficulty: Moderate (some steep sections).
- Highlights: Cascading waterfall, gorge hiking, swimming area.
Robert H. Treman State Park (Enfield, NY):
Explore the rugged beauty of Enfield Glen with its multiple waterfalls, including the impressive Lucifer Falls. Hike along well-maintained trails that descend into the gorge, passing by swimming holes and stunning rock formations.
- Address: 105 Enfield Falls Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
- Website: Robert H. Treman State Park – NYS Parks
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (some steep and rocky sections).
- Highlights: Multiple waterfalls, deep gorge, swimming holes, scenic trails.
Exploring the Watkins Glen Area (Approximately 1 Hour Drive)
Watkins Glen State Park is a must-visit for its breathtaking gorge carved by Glen Creek.
Watkins Glen State Park (Watkins Glen, NY):
Walk along well-maintained trails that wind through the narrow, dramatic gorge, passing by 19 waterfalls, including Rainbow Falls and Central Cascade. The Gorge Trail involves numerous stone steps and bridges, offering an up-close experience with the power and beauty of nature.
- Address: 1009 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891
- Website: Watkins Glen State Park – NYS Parks
- Difficulty: Moderate (numerous steps).
- Highlights: Stunning gorge scenery, numerous waterfalls, unique rock formations.
Tips for Your Hiking Adventures:
Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in and stay on marked trails.
Check Trail Conditions: Before heading out, especially after rain or during seasonal changes, check the trail conditions and closures on park or local government websites.
Wear Appropriate Footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes or boots are essential for most trails.
Bring Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized, especially on longer hikes.
Be Aware of Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and never feed them.
From a unique “stairway” to Owego’s past with stunning views and woodland trails teeming with life to island adventures by water, the hiking opportunities around The Belva Lockwood Inn offer a blend of history and natural beauty. Plan your adventure and discover the diverse landscapes of our region!