Chautauqua Gorge: A Hidden Gem in Chautauqua County, New York

A very short distance from the world-famous Chautauqua Institution and Chautauqua Lake, a short trail leads to an impressive swimming hole. Complete with waterfalls and fossils in the shale alongside the creek, Chautauqua Gorge is a very easy hike with an impressive destination.

Chautauqua Gorge is part of the New York State Forest System, and includes several day-use trails, picnic areas, and fire ring. Fossils are abundant in the shale alongside the creek. Overnight camping is not allowed.

The address of the Gorge is Hannum Road, Chautauqua, NY. From Mayville, take Rte. 430 west to Hannum Road. Follow the road until it ends (it will become a dirt road). To reach the swimming holes, drive to the end of the road and park: a short trail (less than 1/4 mile long) will continue downhill from the end of the dirt road, leading to the swimming holes and creek.

The shale stone alongside the creek is extremely slippery when wet, so watch young children carefully. The water in the main swimming hole (immediately at the end of the short trail) is fairly deep, and may be quite cold, even in the summertime. Care must be taken when crossing the creek and its associated waterfalls. Bring bug repellent during the hottest summer months.

In addition, hunting is allowed in the state forest, so hikers should exercise caution during the fall hunting months. Check the state hunting dates and stay on the trail during this season.

Naturists (individuals who participate in nudist activities) also enjoy the local area. The nudist areas are upstream quite a distance, and are marked by spray-painted rocks. The main swimming hole and waterfall areas are frequented by fully clothed (or bathing-suit wearing) visitors.

The state forest in the Chautauqua Gorge contains 1.2 miles of the Fred J. Cusimano Overland trail, which is 24 miles long. Bicycles, hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are allowed on the trail, which makes this portion of the Chautauqua Gorge accessible year-round. There is also a 1/4 mile long looping trail, paved with crushed stones for day-use visitors. Four covered picnic areas, an information kiosk, and fire rings are in place at the end of Hannum Road, placed conveniently near the trail heads.

Overnight camping is not allowed in the day use area, but lean-to shelters are placed along the Fred J. Cusimano trail for backpackers to use. The area is well shaded in the summer, providing a welcome respite from the heat. Bring insect repellent if hiking in this area during the spring or summer months, as mosquitoes can become quite bothersome during this time of the year.