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Skaneateles Conservation Area
4.6 ★★★★★ 130 Google reviews · Running trail in Marcellus, New York · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Skaneateles Conservation Area's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Family-friendly area for dog-walkers and hikers, plus fishing, swimming and picnics.
What runners say about Skaneateles Conservation Area
“The trails are well-maintained and offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding forest.”
“The above stands, it's beautiful and it was these dogs first time there, fun for all and our mini got brave enough for her 1st swim!”
“The trails are clearly marked at the beginning and I would recommend taking a picture of the map since there are a lot of intersections.”
“It’s peaceful, clean, and perfect for hiking, walking, or just relaxing outdoors.”
“The folks who come here are laid back nature and dog lovers.”
Incredible 7 miles of trails in all kinds of terrain - marshes, hills, pine groves, waterfall - this place has it all. Trails are labeled with yellow for easier terrain, red for a bit of a challenge. THIS IS THE BEST PLACE TO TAKE YOUR DOG OFF LEASH.
Beautiful area, dog friendly, clean water. You can fish there, but it's strictly catch and release. Several trails that branch out from the large pond. There's a pavilion near the water for some shade and lunch. Not great signage at the entrance, so it's easy to drive by.
Absolutely beautiful. So many well marked trails and for every ability. Dogs are welcome (just remember to clean up after them). Forest, field, streams, waterfall, ponds; the beauty of nature and birdsong all around. So very peaceful 🫶🏼
This is a nice place for a relaxed walk. We went on a Wednesday around 4:45 and saw many people walking their dogs back to their vehicles. Most of the dogs were off leash and trained enough to not really care about anyone else.
Trail conditions & character
“This is a natural area that has it all for dogs, hikers, those who like to fish, runners, nature-lovers, photographers, everyone who loves to be outdoors.”
“The above stands, it's beautiful and it was these dogs first time there, fun for all and our mini got brave enough for her 1st swim!”
“Parts of the Beaver trail are very steep and can be muddy, so know the risks (i was wearing flip flops and decided that next time it's full shoes or boots ).”
“Trees are being planted and the Town takes awesome care of the parking lot.”
“It’s peaceful, clean, and perfect for hiking, walking, or just relaxing outdoors.”
“Parts of the Beaver trail are very steep and can be muddy, so know the risks (i was wearing flip flops and decided that next time it's full shoes or boots ).”
“No trail markers on the trails or signage of any kind other then at the entrance.”
Plan your run at Skaneateles Conservation Area
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websiteskaak.org
- Social Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 7 AM–7 PM |
| Tuesday | 7 AM–7 PM |
| Wednesday | 7 AM–7 PM |
| Thursday | 7 AM–7 PM |
| Friday | 7 AM–7 PM |
| Saturday | 7 AM–7 PM |
| Sunday | 7 AM–7 PM |
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