Cazenovia — One of the most popular trails in the Cazenovia area is the Gorge Trail along a two-and-a-half-mile segment of the abandoned Lehigh Valley Railroad line owned and maintained by the Cazenovia Preservation Foundation (CPF). This route was carved into the steep hillside above Chittenango Creek in the 1870s — a stream that supported many water-powered industries along its bank as it flowed northward over Chittenango Falls and beyond. Two additional segments of the former railroad to the north are offered to the public and maintained by the Central New York Chapter of the North Country Trail Association (NCTA).
Although usually a quiet place to walk, run or ski, the Gorge Trail has seen a year of activity. Given the steep hillsides and local weather cycles, providing adequate drainage on the trail is an ongoing challenge. In mid-summer, thanks to a $1,000 donation from the NCTA, the CPF started a two-year project to replace and restore stone culverts that were part of the original railroad construction. Other work involved tree trimming to open up views over Chittenango Creek and to widen the trail.
More than 100 people gathered Thanksgiving morning to start their holiday celebration with a 2.5 or 5k fun walk/run on the trail. Arguably the most scenic Turkey Trot in Central New York, the event took participants along the wooded trail beside Chittenango Creek. Runners and walkers were encouraged to come in costume and competed in a variety of categories, including: Serious Runner, Lollygagger, Out-of-Towner, and more. Awards were given for the average time in each category, as well as for best costumes.
