Binghamton, NY Is More Beautiful Than You Think: 4 Incredible Hikes
Binghamton, New York might not be the place that you think of when thinking of the beauty of upstate New York, but with tons of hiking trails and nature areas, this city is definitely worth the visit. This guide covers 4 hiking trails, which are great spots to experience the beauty of upstate New York with wildflowers, fungi, and wildlife to spot as you go. If you find yourself in the Binghamton area, these hikes are worth adding to your list.
1. The IBM Glen Loop
Trail length: 1.9 mile loop
Elevation gain: 606 feet
Difficulty: Easy
The IBM Glen is part of the Fred L. Waterman Center and includes over 200 acres of preserved habitat, including a small ravine and a 12.5 foot waterfall just upstream. With over 40 acres of old-growth forest, this loop is the perfect place to spot birds, fungi, and wildflowers native to this area. There are several different ways to go through this loop and many of the paths are made of paved walkways, though there are areas where the pavement has broken down over the years, making them less accessible. If you want to reach the creekbed and waterfall, the trails become narrower and more earthen. The trailhead includes a large parking lot, making this an easy spot to stop right outside the city.
Tips: There are several parts of this trail with crumbling pavement and occasionally there are downed trees. We recommend sturdy boots if you plan to come here, especially if you want to reach the creekbed and waterfall.
Learn more about the history of the IBM Glen and find a trail map from Fred L. Waterman Conservation Education Center.
2. Binghamton University Nature Preserve
Trail length: 1-5 mile loop (depending on route)
Elevation gain: 410 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
One of our favorite spots to hike in Binghamton is right within the university campus. With over 190 acres of preserved land, including 20 acres of wetland, the Binghamton University Nature Preserve is a great place to experience the native plants and wildlife of upstate New York. This preserve is open to the public and has several areas to park both on and off campus. We prefer to stay off campus and park in one of the auxiliary areas to avoid the crowds. There are nearly 11 miles of trails at this preserve, including a wooden footbridge overlooking the marsh. With multiple trail options, many of which connect to each other, you won’t have any trouble finding a hike that fits your needs. This trail can get quite muddy and includes several wooden planks to walk across. If you choose to go on the ridge trail, it can get quite steep, but it’s only for a short distance. There is tons of wildlife to spot in this area including deer, beaver, fox, porcupines, reptiles, and over 200 bird species that have been spotted in the preserve. Its habitats include hemlocks, oaks, and a number of native shrubs, plants, and flowers. If you’re only in Binghamton for a short time, we recommend at least trying out one of the trails at this nature preserve.
Tips: Check Binghamton University’s schedule before visiting since the parking area and trails may be busier during school days.
Learn more about the nature preserve and find a trail map from Binghamton University.
3. Wittman Dam Trail
Trail length: 0.9 mile out and back
Elevation gain: 91 feet
Difficulty: Easy
This short out and back trail is the perfect spot to get a view over the city of Binghamton. It’s an easy hike, with only 91 feet of elevation gain and the trail is less than a mile out and back. There is a small parking area on Wittman Lane where you begin the walk through a grassy area. The trail seems a bit hidden since you walk between some houses to the trail head, but keep moving forward and you will find yourself walking past a small pond with some wildflower fields. The trail winds slightly up into the woods, with some easy climbing up stones to get to the viewpoint. Although this isn’t the most strenuous hike, it’s an easy way to get out when you’re short on time or just want a view of the city from above.
Tips: Consider wearing pants on this hike since you will walk through areas with tall grass and ticks are prevalent in this area.
4. Vestal Rail Trail East
Trail length: 2.1 mile out and back
Elevation gain: 0 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Although some may not consider this a hike, the Vestal Rail Trail is a very well maintained, accessible hiking option in the area. The trail has 3 different sections, totaling nearly 4 miles of trail, some that follow the Susquehanna River. Each section includes a 12 foot wide, paved walkway that is available for people to walk, skate, run, and cycle. There is plenty of local flora and fauna to spot, along with wildlife like birds, beavers, and insects. We love the east part of this trail, which goes through a wooded area and has tons of wildflowers to check out. The trailhead also includes bathrooms and a gazebo with picnic benches for a post walk snack. This is a great accessible hike for anyone visiting the Binghamton area.
Tips: This trail can get very busy, especially on the weekends, so plan your visit accordingly.
Find a trail map of the Vestal, New York Rail Trail.
Although Binghamton is not the most popular destination in upstate New York, you won’t be disappointed with the hiking options. These are only four of our favorite hikes in the area, but there are plenty more to try out. Let us know in the comments what your favorite hike in Binghamton is!
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About the Authors
For us, travel isn't about checking destinations off a list. We love connecting with new places through its natural spaces, trails, wildlife, and native plants. Whether we're living on the road in our 21-foot travel trailer or traveling abroad, we hope our stories inspire you to slow down on your travels, spend more time outside, and discover the beauty all around the world.
Looking for the best hikes in Binghamton, New York? From scenic overlooks to peaceful nature preserves, these four trails will change how you think about the beauty of upstate New York.