Trails

HOURS:

April-October - 6am-sunset plus 1/2 hour
November-March - 6am-sunset. During Lights on the Lake, the entire park closes at 4:30pm. 

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CLOSURE ALERT(S)

•Spring 2023 - The New York State Thruway is conducting a major improvement project on the Thruway. Part of this work involves the bridgework that crosses over the East Shore and West Shore Trails. Unfortunately, this may result in temporary closures or detours throughout the project. Please check here for scheduled closures. However, expect some closures/detours that might not be planned in advance. 
Current Closure: None planned at this time.

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Five Great Trails at Onondaga Lake Park! Whether it's in-line skating, bicycling, walking or running, Onondaga Lake Park has the perfect trail for visitors of all ages. For more information, including mileage and parking, click here to download the Onondaga Lake Park map.

East Shore Recreation Trail

Over two and one-half miles long and twenty feet wide, this paved trail is ideal for in-line skating and bicycling. During the peak season of April to October, pedestrian use is allowed only if it does not impede wheeled users and stay within three feet of the shoulder and with no more than two abreast. Dogs are not allowed on the trail during peak season. Trams follow the center line. During the off-season of November to March, wheels and pedestrians share the trail. Dogs on 6' leashes are allowed with pedestrian use but not with wheeled users. This trail is plowed in the winter.

Shoreline Walking Trail

This trail is designated for walkers and runners. Only foot traffic is allowed on this two mile long trail. Distance markers along the route help you maintain consistent mileage. Special uses (strollers, children's bicycles with training wheels, tricycles and wheel chair users) are also permitted on this trail. This trail is not plowed in the winter. When it snows please use the plowed East Shore Recreation Trail.

To enter the park near the East Shore Recreation or Shoreline Walking Trail from the south entrance  (Griffin Visitor Center, Wegmans Playground, etc), click here for Google Maps. To enter at the north entrance (near Willow Bay) click here for Google Maps.

West Shore Trail (John Haley Memorial Trail)

Located along the scenic western shore of Onondaga Lake, this paved trail meanders through over 4.5 miles of woodlands and open areas. It is perfect for bicyclists, walkers, runners and nature enthusiasts. This side of Onondaga Lake is rich in history; several resorts and dance halls once stood here. The West Shore Trail offers spectacular lake and city views and runs right through the St. Joseph's Health Amphitheater. Several shelters and benches can be found along the trail for visitors convenience. This trail is not plowed in the winter and when conditions permit offer a great opportunity for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.

Please note: The gates on both sides of the St. Joseph's Health Amphitheater section of the trail are closed at dusk the night before a concert and will remain closed until reopening at dawn the morning after the concert. If there are concerts 2 days in a row the gates will remain closed throughout the second day. Closing dates/times are subject to change. Click here for concert dates. As always, the West Shore Trail parking lot located on Long Branch Road will be open and all trail users can access the West Shore Trail from this point. 

To access the West Shore Trail-North Entrance (across from Long Branch Park) Click here for Google Maps.

To access the West Shore Trail-South Entrance (NYS Fair Orange Parking Lot):
From Points West: Take I-690 East to Exit 7, turn left onto State Fair Boulevard, take the first left passing under I-690, drive straight toward the lake and turn left into the NYS Fair Orange Parking Lot. In addition, you can access the trail from the West Shore Trail Parking Lot located off of Long Branch Road or from the East Shore Trail Parking Lots.

From Points East: Take I-690 West to Exit 7, head straight to the NYS Fair Orange Parking Lot.
The New York State Fair Orange Parking Lot is the designated parking area for the trail extension. Parking is free, except during the 12 days that the NYS Fair is open, late August-early September. Trail users may park in the lot at that time but will have to pay the $5 parking fee charged to fairgoers.

Lakeland Trail

Located off the West Shore Trail, this 1 mile, partial stonedust and natural surfaced, trail is ideal for solitude and observation.

Murphy's Island Trail

Located near Destiny USA, this .4 mile trail is a mixture of stonedust surface and wooden boardwalk. There are no benches, restrooms or drinking fountains. It is an "out & back" trail. Trail is accessible via the Syracuse Creekwalk. 

Trail Rules:

• No motorized vehicles allowed - that includes battery operated children's play vehicles, play scooters and skateboards. Wheelchairs and medically necessary scooters are allowed.
• Onondaga County law requires helmet use for ages 17 and below on bikes and in-line skates.
• Skaters and bicyclists may not be accompanied by pets.
• Keep to the right.
• Maintain safe, controllable speed (not more than 17 mph, the park speed limit.)
• Wear proper safety equipment.
• Announce “passing” or “on your left” when passing.
• Be courteous to other users.
• Do not block or crowd the trail - step off to the side when not moving.
• Watch for the tram on the East Shore Recreational Trail - it has the right of way and follows the center line.
• Leash and clean-up after your pets. Leash must be no longer than six feet. There are disposable, free mutt-mitts to assist in clean-up. Keep in mind this is a carry in-carry out park, that includes dog waste.
• Report all accidents to Park staff. If an emergency, call 911.
• Help keep the Park clean. Reminder, all Onondaga County Parks are carry in-carry out facilities.
• Enjoy your visit!

During your visit to Onondaga County Parks, you may be photographed, videotaped, or filmed by Onondaga County Parks or authorized parties. Your attendance/admission serves as permission for use of these images by Onondaga County Parks. Commercial photography or filming is prohibited without permission of Onondaga County Parks.