Fred J. Cusimano Westside Overland Trail

Fred J. Cusimano Westside Overland Trail is a point-to-point hiking route in Chautauqua County, Western New York, stretching from the NY–PA border near the Town of Harmony to the south side of the Chautauqua Gorge. The standard hike length is about 24–27 miles depending on where you start/end and whether you take brief connectors.

Expect an easy overall difficulty with a long-day workload: the corridor alternates between ATV-wide path, narrow singletrack, farm-field segments, and short road walks. Much of the route is in reforestation and deep-woods terrain.

Surface varies, but the route is primarily on dirt paths/track. Trail visibility is described as good, and the route is non-motorized with no horses permitted.

For overnight hikers, lean-tos are available along the way, and there are a couple of lean-to locations noted for thru-hikers. These are equipped with water pumps.

The route crosses NYS reforestation areas, Chautauqua County land, and private properties. Because portions run through private land, use is expected with respect for landowners and pack-out of all trash.

You can plan this as a car-shuttle trip or arrange a drop-off, since it’s designed as a through route rather than a loop.

More information: Map, Fred J. Cusimano Westside Overland Trail, West Trail - Overland Trails - Chautauqua County