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New York State Parks

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Saint Lawrence State Forest
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SAINT LAWRENCE STATE FOREST
SAINT LAWRENCE STATE FOREST
The Saint Lawrence State Forest, located in the northernmost region of New York, is a captivating natural treasure that mesmerizes with its vast expanse of lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Stretching over thousands of acres, this majestic forest offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, where one can immerse themselves in tranquil hiking trails, meandering rivers, and picturesque lakes. Home to an abundance of flora and fauna, the Saint Lawrence State Forest creates an enchanting tapestry of colors during the fall season, and provides a haven for birdwatchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts seeking solace in the midst of breathtaking beauty.
History of the Area
1. Early Inhabitation: Before the arrival of European settlers, the region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Mohawk, Seneca, and Oneida peoples. These tribes relied on the forest's resources for hunting, gathering, and trading.

2. European Settlement: European settlers began arriving in the area in the late 18th century. They were predominantly farmers who cleared the land for agriculture. However, the rigorous climate and rocky terrain made farming challenging, and many settlers eventually turned to other industries like timber and mining.

3. Timber Industry: In the mid-19th century, the Saint Lawrence River and its tributaries became vital routes for transporting timber. Huge quantities of logs were floated down these waterways, with the Saint Lawrence State Forest serving as an important source of timber. Lumber mills sprang up around the forest area, attracting workers and stimulating economic growth.

4. Transformation into State Forest: By the early 20th century, the once-abundant timber resources in the forest had significantly dwindled due to over-harvesting and unsustainable logging practices. Concerned about the forest's depletion and the potential impacts on the local environment, the New York State government purchased the land, establishing the Saint Lawrence State Forest in 1915.

5. Conservation and Recreation: The creation of the state forest aimed to restore and conserve the land, allowing it to regenerate naturally. Over time, the forest has rebounded, with diverse tree species covering the area. Today, the Saint Lawrence State Forest is managed primarily for multiple uses, including timber production, wildlife habitat conservation, and recreational activities.

6. Recreational Activities: The forest provides a range of recreational opportunities for visitors. It has a network of trails for hiking, nature walks, and bird-watching. Hunting and fishing are popular activities as well, with the forest being home to a variety of game species and numerous lakes and streams.
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Trails
1. Bear Mountain Trail: This is a moderately challenging trail that stretches for about 3 miles, offering hikers stunning views of the Saint Lawrence River and surrounding forest.

2. Blue Heron Loop: A relatively easy hike at just over two miles long, this loop takes you through dense woodland areas where birdwatchers can spot various species including its namesake - the blue heron.

3. Pine Ridge Pathway: An intermediate level hiking path covering approximately four miles in distance with an elevation gain of around 200 feet; it offers scenic vistas overlooking pine forests and wetlands teeming with wildlife.

4. Beaver Pond Trail: At roughly one mile long, this short but sweet trek leads to a serene beaver pond nestled within lush greenery - perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility amidst wilderness settings.

5. Fox Run Track: Spanning nearly three-and-a-half-miles across diverse terrains such as meadows and hardwood forests; sightings of foxes are common along this track hence its name 'Fox Run'.

6. Red Squirrel Route: Named after frequent red squirrel sightings on route, this moderate difficulty trail extends up to five kilometers featuring mixed woodlands, small streams & rocky outcrops.

7. Wildflower Walkway: Ideal during spring season when wildflowers bloom abundantly ;this gentle pathway traversing less than half-mile provides opportunities for close encounters with vibrant flora native to St. Lawrence State Forest.

8. Otter Creek Circuit: This six-kilometer-long circuitous journey winds alongside Otter creek known habitat area for otters . The terrain varies from flat grassy patches near water bodies transitioning into steep climbs towards higher elevations providing panoramic view points enroute.

9. Hawk Hill Hike: A strenuous uphill climb spanning almost seven kilometers leading upto Hawk hill summit renowned among avid bird watchers especially raptors enthusiasts due high frequency hawk spotting here.

10. Deer Leap Descent: An adventurous downhill trail stretching over four kilometers through dense coniferous forests ; deer sightings are common along this descent hence the name 'Deer Leap'.

11. Owl's Roost Ridge: This challenging, five-mile long ridge hike offers panoramic views of surrounding forest and river landscapes; nocturnal hikers might even hear owls calling from treetops.

12. Raccoon Ramble: A family-friendly two-kilometer-long rambling path meandering amidst mixed deciduous-coniferous woodlands, known for frequent raccoon encounters.

13. Bobcat Bypass: An intermediate level bypass route covering around three miles in distance with an elevation gain of about 150 feet; it is named after bobcats that inhabit these areas.

14. Moose Meadow March: A seven kilometer march across open grassy meadows frequented by moose especially during early mornings & late evenings.

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Area Fishing Related Businesses
Damon Rodworks
19 Market St # 101
Potsdam, NY
(315) 265-0174
Tomahawk Point Rod & Gun
89 County Route 58
Colton, NY
(315) 262-2106
Area Cabins and Lodges
Colonial Village Fun Park
578 State Highway 11B
Potsdam, NY
(315) 265-7275

Directions
1. Start by heading north on Interstate 81.
2. Take exit 48 for NY-342 toward Calcium/Philadelphia.
3. Turn left onto NY-342 W and continue to follow this road for approximately 10 miles.
4. At the roundabout, take the second exit onto US-11 N/Main St towards Philadelphia/Watertown.
5. Continue straight on US-11 N for about 15 miles until you reach Gouverneur town center.
6. In Gouverneur, turn right onto E Main St/NY-58 S and drive through the town.

At this point, it's important to note that specific directions may vary depending on which part of Saint Lawrence State Forest you are trying to access as it covers a large area with multiple entrances.

To access one popular entrance:
7a: After driving through Gouverneur Town Center (step #6), continue south along County Route 12/Sylvan Falls Rd for approximately six miles until you see signs indicating an entrance into Saint Lawrence State Forest.

Alternatively,
7b: If your destination within the forest lies closer to Edwards or Russell areas instead of Sylvan Falls Road mentioned above; after step #6 - Instead of continuing south along CR12/Sylvan Falls Rd., make a slight left turn at East Barney Street followed by another slight right-turn merging into Old DeKalb-Russell Road/Old Rte16B/Russell-Turnpike Road then proceed eastward following signage leading towards desired sections within Saint Lawrence state forest

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New York State Parks

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