Explore scenic trails, stunning views and local wildlife along a sprawling network of community-built paths connecting the towns of the Champlain Valley region in Upstate New York.
Founded in 2009, Champlain Area Trails (CATS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating and maintaining trails that link communities, conserve natural lands, and connect people with the beauty of the outdoors. Located between the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain, these trails showcase some of the most beautiful and ecologically diverse terrain in Upstate New York.
CATS maintains over 70 miles of trails that weave through forests and fields and zig-zag along ridgelines. Many trails offer panoramic views of Lake Champlain and Vermont’s Green Mountains. The network includes short family-friendly loops as well as longer treks for seasoned hikers. Several paths pass through local villages like Essex, Westport, and Willsboro.
CATS believes that limited public land access has quelled the economic potential of the Champlain Valley region and has caused communities to become disconnected. The organization seeks to address this issue through its trails and by promoting tourism, supporting local farms and businesses and developing outdoor education and recreation-based tourism initiatives.
From leisurely strolls to day-long hikes, the Champlain Area Trails has something for everyone! Discover the Art Farm Trail, one of the CATS most popular, a 1.5 mile path that takes hikers through a field past several large art installations before looping into the woods and reaching a beautiful pond. The Spirit Sanctuary Trail is an easy, 1.5 mile out-and-back trail that takes you through a serene hemlock forest and along a small creek. For hikers looking for a greater challenge, try the Mount Gilligan Trail, a moderate to difficult 2.1 mile route. This trail has significant elevation gain but rewards hikers with gorgeous mountaintop views.
Each trail is clearly marked with CATS signage and maps are available both online and at local trailheads. Several trails connect to other trails, allowing hikers to extend their journey if they just can’t get enough of the outdoors!
CATS hosts seasonal events like the Grand Hike, an annual spring trek that links multiple trails and ends with a community celebration featuring food, live music, and local vendors.
All CATS trails are free to access! While many trails are open year-round, some are closed seasonally. Visit the CATS website for more information regarding trail access.
Dogs are welcome on most trails but must be leashed. Parking is available at designated trailheads.
Open daily, year-round: Dawn to dusk
Trailheads are located throughout the Champlain Valley region of northeastern New York, including towns such as Essex, Westport, Willsboro, and Lewis. Visit the CATS website for directions to specific trails.
Experience the beauty of the Champlain Valley by taking Amtrak to the Westport Station. —Don’t forget to use the See New York & Save 15% discount!
From Westport Station, pick up your reserved NYTRAIN Enterprise Rent-a-Car to easily access nearby trailheads. The Coon Mountain Trail and several others are just minutes away.
