Work on new Zoar Valley Memorial Trail completes

The first phase of public safety and visitor experience improvements to the unique Zoar Valley area has been completed, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Acting Commissioner Sean Mahar announced Wednesday.

This includes a new accessible trail at Valentine Flats Construction. The Memorial Trail replaces the old Overlook Trail at Valentine Flats. In addition to four new viewing areas at scenic locations along the new trail, crews also installed a split-rail fence to maintain a safe setback from the gorge.

“DEC’s ongoing efforts to improve public safety and the visitor experience at Zoar are well underway,” Mahar said. “DEC will continue to collaborate with stakeholders throughout the second phase of construction so that visitors of all abilities can enjoy Zoar’s beautiful views from a safe distance.”

Phase II of the project includes improvements to emergency access from the parking lot to the creek, as well as additional improvements. Construction on Phase II will begin in 2025.

The Valentine Flats parking lot and trails have reopened and will remain open until Phase II construction begins in 2025. Other access points, including Forty Road in the Town of Persia and the Holcomb and Ross Pond areas, will remain open to visitors throughout the duration of construction.