Cayuga Shores Wildlife Management Area (Formally Bell Station Preserve) - Lansing, NY
Cayuga Shores Wildlife Management Area, located on Nut Ridge Rd in Lansing, NY, is a serene dog park in the Finger Lakes region that offers pet-friendly trails perfect for dog owners seeking a peaceful outdoor experience. This dog-friendly hiking destination features easy-to-follow walking paths and an out-and-back trail that winds through beautiful woods and along the shore of Cayuga Lake, providing ample opportunities for pets to explore and enjoy nature. The area is well-suited for birdwatching and hiking, making it a versatile spot for both dogs and their owners.
What makes this dog park unique is its natural, undeveloped charm with about 1.5 miles of maintained trails and a stony beach area where dogs can safely roam and even access the lake. While there is no formal parking lot, visitors can park along the roadside shoulder, adding to the rustic feel of the preserve. The quiet, scenic environment is ideal for families, children, and pets, offering a peaceful retreat with beautiful gorges and a waterfall nearby. Cayuga Shores Wildlife Management Area is a hidden gem for those looking for a dog-friendly hiking and walking destination near Lansing, NY.
FAQ for Cayuga Shores Wildlife Management Area (Formally Bell Station Preserve) in Lansing New York:
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs are allowed outside, but the information does not specify if off-leash is permitted.
- Where is the best place to park? There is no designated parking lot; visitors should park alongside Nut Ridge Road on the shoulder.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are about 1.5 miles of decently cleared and maintained walking and hiking trails including gorges and woods trails.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? Yes, the park offers shore access to Cayuga Lake where dogs can go into the water.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? The trails are decently cleared and maintained as of 2023.
- Is the park open year-round? The information does not specify seasonal closures, so it is likely open year-round.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Specific leash requirements are not detailed, but dogs are allowed off the main path areas.
- Is there shade or shelter available? The park includes wooded trails which provide areas of natural shade.
Reviews
The farther north I moved up the lake, the more the levels decreased. I think I will have to take my search farther East. If their intentions are peaceful (which i believe they are) it should be easy to communicate to them. I am unsure why they are avoiding me. Whether it be my scent, looks, or my color I may have to change them soon. Got washed up in the lake here to try and disguise some smells and blend in. Hopefully it works.
Nice area with a few short trails. Nice waterfall (best seen after a good rain) and shore access to Cayuga Lake. Trails are easy to follow. No parking lot, park along side the road on the shoulder
A true hidden gem. Loved the walking trails and how you can go right into the lake. No one else was there which I was happy with.
Yet another beautiful pickup by the Finger Lakes Land Trust. They do amazing work protecting these areas. As of 2023 this place is still pretty undeveloped as it stands with signage and parking. You park alongside the Nut Ridge Road and can easily see the signs and trail area where you park. About 1.5 miles of trails in place now, decently cleared and maintained. Nice big area of stony beach available to enjoy Cayuga Lake and explore the shoreline. There’s a couple of nice gorges and woods trails to explore as well. Not too far from Treleaven winery, so afterwards you can go up there for a drink and some food!
Lovely trail overall! The trails could be marked a little better, but it is quiet and has a good stretch that follows right on the lake. Great for pets and children.