BEAR SWAMP STATE FOREST
Located on two state forests of 3,316 acres in Cayuga County, this area is known for the large wetland and creek that bisect the forest. The ski trail system, over 13 miles in length, was developed with volunteer help in the 1980's. The trail has since become increasingly popular.
Bear Swamp State Forest, located in Cayuga County, New York, has a rich history that dates back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by the Cayuga Nation, one of the six Native American nations that formed the Iroquois Confederacy.
During the 18th century, European settlers began to establish settlements in the region. In 1790, Samuel Bear, Sr., a Revolutionary War veteran, received a land grant that included much of the present-day forest area. The swampy nature of the land led to it being referred to as Bear Swamp.
In the early 19th century, the region became a popular hunting ground due to its abundant wildlife, including bears. This attracted many hunters and trappers to the area. The land was eventually transformed into a profitable timber resource by the mid-1800s.
In the early 20th century, the state of New York recognized the ecological and recreational value of Bear Swamp and began acquiring land in the area. In 1923, the state established Bear Swamp State Reforestation Area, which was one of the first reforestation projects in the country.
The state continued to expand the forest, and in 1962, it was officially designated as Bear Swamp State Forest. The forest now spans over 3,000 acres, encompassing diverse habitats such as wetlands, hardwood forests, and conifer plantations.