Highland Forest County Park — Attraction in Town of Fabius

Today I visited Highland Forest for the horse-drawn sleigh ride and had a great time! The sleigh rides depart from Skyline Lodge and are on a first-come first served basis. When we arrived, it was very busy, and we had to wait about an hour for our turn. I recommend heading to the "Sleigh Ride" sign and signing up right away when you get there to reduce your wait. I am assuming that there might have been an especially large crowd today because the weather was fairly warm.

While we waited, we decided to get some lunch. We were pleasantly surprised with the concessions. The chili was homemade with big pieces of ground beef, and they also had butternut squash soup. I highly recommend the loaded fries, which were super crispy and piled high with chili, cheese and sour cream. The large gathering room had many tables and a huge fireplace with a roaring fire.

Our ride left promptly at the time we were told. The horses were spirited and the seat comfortable. The sleigh had a step and was very easy to get up onto even though I have somewhat limited mobility. We had a fun 20 minute ride over the snowy paths enjoying the wintry scenery. One of the best parts was when the horses trotted up hills. It was...

I have to give a five star rating because it is such a gorgeous place, with a nice facility, horse riding, carriage rides, and the best trails for cross country skiing in the area. However, be warned that they are VERY strict about times, and if you are out hiking after 2:45 you will be stopped by multiple park workers who will question you and warn you about the impending 4:30 closing time. You can’t even be a little late, because they have police waiting in the parking lot who will escort you out. I haven’t had this experience at any other CNY state or county park. I suppose this is necessary because they have more costly things than most other places. It’s sad that they probably have to do this because of vandals and thieves, but it certainly dampens the feeling of freedom one usually gets when enjoying the outdoors. Add onto that the fee you pay per person, not car, and it’s enough to make those who are regular hikers want to choose a different place. So for the special things like the skiing and horses, Highland Forest is unparalleled. But for regular hikes I would recommend the nearby finger lakes trail system around Labrador Hollow; no one will...

I have enjoyed my forays into Highland Forest to enjoy X-C skiing, as the trails are designated for specific activities to increase enjoyment thereof. Sorry, I've been reading Chernow, and I am amused by the sound of my writing! Anyway, what I mean is that only cross country skiing is allowed on the groomed trails to maintain the tracks for subsequent skiers. It's quite nice and of course, the woods are beautiful and the animal tracks are fun! Other trails are designated for snowshoers and hikers. And there are also places just for X-C skaters. The lodge is spacious, upscale, with a vast view of the valley. I have rented skis each time I've gone, with great satisfaction of the equipment. One is welcome to bring a picnic and friends- all so much fun!😊 Also, I should mention that as a county park, they take safety seriously and to that end, there is a friendly and helpful ski patrol bunch that occasionally skis by on the trails and makes sure you come out of the woods by the 4:30...