WAYNE COUNTY, NY (WROC) – Locals are speaking out after one of the most popular trails along Lake Ontario was shut down for the rest of 2018. The Chimney Bluffs in Wayne County are just east of Sodus Point.
Major erosion has caused a big problem along the shoreline and has created a dangerous situation along Bluff trail in the park. “Seeing this snow fence up here was kind of shocking without any warning.” Said Mike DeCracker, president of ‘Trail Works’, a group that helps promote trails around Wayne County.
He suggests the use of switch backs along some of the dangerous areas at Chimney Bluffs State Park. He understands that some parks do need major repair but feels that there should be a way to allow some point where hikers can get a point of view.
Wayne County Tourism Director Christine Worth says it was a surprising decision. “I was caught off guard by it,” said Worth. “I was very sad about it honestly because I know how important it is to folks that visit the area.”
She is concerned that it might have some type of impact on the local businesses. “I know for many people it’s their favorite thing to do and do it several times a year, so I would still encourage you to visit,” said Worth.
Meanwhile the state does not see a short-term fix. “Anticipating additional erosion, we’re going to have to do a major trail project next season,” said Fred Bonn, regional director of the Finger Lakes Region that oversees over a dozen parks including Chimney Bluffs State Park.
Bonn says the erosion that has occurred over years has led to the need for big changes and says strongly requests that people obey the signage and it will be an offense that could be ticketed. He also encourages that people take advantage of the many trails that are still available.
Bonn mentioned that the trails crew working on the Chimney Bluffs for next year are already committed this season to trail work in a different park.
