Pat McGee Trail

There are five designated parking areas along the trail. The main trailhead in Little Valley offers a community park with a picnic shelter and gazebos, making it a convenient starting point.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. As a multi-use rail-trail, dogs are typically welcome, but always ensure they are kept on a leash and that you clean up after them.

The trail offers diverse scenery throughout the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer is great for enjoying the full biodiversity. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for snow and potentially muddy conditions, especially near the Cattaraugus trailhead.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access or hike the Pat McGee Trail. It is freely accessible for public recreational use.

The trail's surface varies, primarily consisting of crushed stone, dirt, and grass. There's a short paved section near the Little Valley trailhead. While generally well-drained, some areas, particularly near the Cattaraugus trailhead, can become muddy after heavy rain. The terrain is largely flat with gentle inclines, reflecting its rail-trail heritage.

Absolutely. The Pat McGee Trail is considered an easy hike, suitable for all fitness levels, including beginners and families. Its largely flat profile and gentle inclines make it very accessible.

You'll experience diverse scenery as the trail rolls across the Allegheny Plateau, passing through valleys, mountains, marshes, and alongside lakes and ponds. Notable features include the Bridge over Little Valley Creek, five other rehabilitated former rail bridges, and the Eastern Continental Divide. Interpretive signs provide insights into the area's natural and historical significance.

The trail is rich in biodiversity, traversing nine unique ecosystems. You might spot various wildlife, including 41 mammal species and 150 bird species. The diverse plant life includes 174 identified plant and tree species, making it an excellent spot for nature observation.

Yes, the trail intersects with and shares portions with the much longer Finger Lakes Trail (Allegany Region) and the North Country National Scenic Trail (NY), offering opportunities for extended hikes into areas like Allegany State Park.

Besides the community park at the Little Valley trailhead, which has a picnic shelter and gazebos, there is also a lean-to available about half a mile south of the northern terminus. Interpretive signage is also present along the route.

The trail is rated as an easy hike, with a technical difficulty of T1 on the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) Hiking Scale. It is largely flat, making it accessible for most hikers.