The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced the temporary closure of the Valentine Flats parking area and trail. The parking area and trail will be closed weekdays beginning Wednesday, March 22. This closure is necessary to accommodate tree removal work at the site required to advance the construction of a new Americans with Disabilities (ADA)-compliant and accessible trail.

The Valentine Flats parking area and trail are anticipated to reopen in April for a period of time after this preliminary tree removal work is completed. The Valentine Flats parking area and trail will close again during the summer to accommodate construction of the new trail. DEC will notify the public prior to the summer closure. 

The addition of the new trail at Valentine Flats is among a suite of improvements to promote public safety and enhance the visitor experience at one of Western New York's most scenic and ecologically diverse natural areas.

Other access points to the Zoar Valley Multiple Use Area (MUA) and the Zoar Valley Unique Area, including at Forty Road as well as the Holcomb Pond and Ross Pond areas remain open to visitors. DEC also encourages visitors to consider accessing other state properties across Western New York.

New Yorkers are encouraged to Love Our New York Lands at Zoar and all natural spaces by practicing Leave No Trace^TM principles and by recreating safely, sustainably, and hiking in suitable conditions based on weather and experience level. To ensure visitors to Zoar Valley MUA and Zoar Valley Unique Area are aware of potential risks and the need to prepare, DEC continues its comprehensive efforts to improve the visitor experience and public safety. 

For more information, visit Zoar Valley Multiple Use Area - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation.