Great Outdoors, Greater Adventures.
Ready to trade screen time for green time? Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, coasting on crystal-clear lakes, or shredding fresh powder, Cortland County is your basecamp for outdoor adventures in Central NY. Nestled in the scenic Finger Lakes, our region is packed with year-round things to do outside in Cortland—from epic hikes and peaceful paddles to disc golf with a view and winter trails worth bundling up for.
Let’s make fresh air your new favorite destination.
Highlights
Disc Golf at Hope Lake
Tucked behind Cascades Indoor Waterpark at Greek Peak Mountain Resort, Disc Golf at Hope Lake is a scenic 18-hole course offering a fun, accessible experience for all skill levels. With seven unique layout options and a 4.4-star UDisc rating, it’s one of the top spots for disc golf in Cortland County and Central NY.
Players enjoy a mix of wooded and open holes, elevation changes, and technical throws. The course features dual tees and baskets, turf and asphalt tee pads, and Pro 28 DISCatcher targets—making it a standout for outdoor recreation in the Finger Lakes.
Chase Waterfalls
Looking for a family-friendly hike near Cortland with a major wow factor? Tinker Falls delivers. This stunning Finger Lakes waterfall features a short, accessible trail that leads to a 50-foot cascade framed by dramatic rock walls, located in the Labrador Hollow Unique Area. It’s the kind of place that makes your camera roll—and your spirit—overflow.
Want more adventure? Explore nearby trails like the Skyline Trail, Jones Hill Hang Glider Spot, or the North Country National Scenic Trail.
Paddle the South End of Skaneateles
For one of the most scenic paddling experiences in the Finger Lakes, launch your kayak or canoe from Andrew R. Fuller Park in the town of Scott. Skaneateles Lake, the fifth largest of the Finger Lakes, offers sparkling blue-green waters framed by wooded hills, boathouses, and lakeside cottages. Paddle north to discover the Staghorn Cliffs, a unique fossil site just beyond the county line.
After your adventure, head to The Glen Haven, a lakeside inn and restaurant perfect for a hearty meal, sunset cocktails, and even an overnight stay—outdoor fun in Cortland County made easy.
Nature is for Everyone at Lime Hollow Nature Center
At Lime Hollow Nature Center, adventure has no limits. Thanks to the Action TrackChair, accessible outdoor activities in the Finger Lakes NY are within reach for visitors with mobility challenges. This all-terrain, motorized wheelchair allows users to explore the Nature Center's scenic trails with ease. Want to give it a try? Reservations are available through Lime Hollow—because everyone deserves a trail day.
From bike trails and golf courses to snowshoe treks and paddle launches, Cortland County’s great outdoors are open year-round. Whether you're mapping out your next hike, planning a ski weekend, or searching for the best hiking near Cortland, we’ve got you covered. Scroll through the categories below and find your next adventure—whatever the season.
Fresh air is just the beginning.
