I pride myself on finding hidden gems around New York. Although I usually find these places through research, sometimes I find them by chance, as we did with this remarkable trail. While not lengthy, this trail is rich in nature, art, and even a little bit of history, making it a distinctive destination worth visiting.
The Sculpture Trail
Trail Length: 0.9 miles (one way)
The trail runs parallel to the Cayuga-Seneca Canal on an old railroad bed. Rails-to-trails have become more common over the last few years, making use of old railroad beds and turning them into public recreation areas. They are generally flat, making them good for walking and biking trails.
The Ludovico Sculpture Trail adds a clever twist to this rail to trail by placing art sculptures periodically along the just shy of the mile trail. Over a dozen unique art sculptures adorn the trail, created by local artists. There are also benches along the trail so visitors can sit and enjoy the view.
This trail is the perfect mix of art and nature as you walk along the scenic shores of the Cayuga-Seneca Canal. We visited in the winter and saw an abundance of waterfowl on our walk. It was a cold day when we visited, and we almost didn’t see another person on the trail. I am sure this is a different story during warmer weather.
Please note: The trail butts up against the backyard of many residences. Please stay on the path and do not trespass on private property.
Out and About with Nova
This is a dog-friendly destination. Nova truly enjoyed her walk here. Nova is very un-Chowish when it comes to water. Most chows are anti-water; however, Nova loves it, and she enjoys walks that offer places to visit the water, and this trail has many spots to go down to the shore. The path here is also wide enough that if you encounter other people, you can move off the path and let them pass.
Please be respectful of other visitors and make sure your dog is leashed and you clean up after them.
Getting to Ludovico Sculpture Trail
The first thing I need to note is if you put Ludovico Sculpture Trial into your GPS, it will send you to someone’s house and not an actual parking area. But fear not… we’ve sorted that out for you.
Typically, visitors can park and enter the trail at Bridge Street. However, when we visited, that portion of the trail was receiving an upgrade, and it was closed. We had to enter from a tiny parking area on River Rd. Obviously, this is a temporary closure, and I recommend trying this area first.
Bridge Street Entrance:
Address: 18 Bridge Street, Seneca Falls
Google Map Link
River Road Parking Area:
This is a VERY tiny parking area on River Road; it can fit maybe two cars at best. There is a trail leading from the parking area that follows Sucker Brook and ends at the Ludovico Sculpture Trail.
Address: 2230 River Rd, Seneca Falls
Google Map Link
