Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge

Walking Trails

Seneca Trail

This one-mile trail meanders the perimeter of the Refuge's headquarters. A walk along the canal, through an area undergoing reforestation, to the Visitor Center, observation areas and restrooms, the Seneca Trail can be accessed from the Visitor Center parking area and from the canal via our seasonal floating dock at the beginning of the Wildlife Drive.

Oxbow Trail

This 3/4 mile loop trail is located along the Wildlife Drive. A mowed path through an old field undergoing habitat restoration, the Oxbow Trail gives you a chance to get of out of your car and reconnect with nature. You may see sparrows, northern harrier, bobolink and meadowlark. You may also see baby, silver dollar-sized snapping turtles, fox holes and rabbit sign!

Esker Brook Trail

A series of three one mile trails, you can walk through the woods, along a brook and around two ponds. You may see or hear songbirds, woodpeckers, great blue heron, ducks, geese, white-tailed deer or small mammals during your visit. Look for "scat" (animal droppings) along your way!

Wildflowers flourish in May. A trail guide is available at the Visitor Center desk. These trails are open year-round, except during the white-tailed deer hunting season (November - mid-December), when the trails are open by hunting permit only. In winter, try snowshoeing or cross country skiing!

The Esker Brook Trailhead is located off of NY State Route 89.

South Spring Pool Trail

This 3/4 mile trail travels from South Spring Pool on NY State Route 80 to Esker Brook's Ridge Trail. Look for heron, ducks, northern harrier, woodpeckers, bobolink, and other songbirds. This is a great little trail, and a favorite among Refuge staff!