Champlain Area Trails (CATS) has published two new trail maps that cover hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities in the Champlain Valley, from Ticonderoga and the nearby Pharaoh Lake Wilderness north to the Canadian Boarder.

The Central Champlain Valley Trail Map is the latest update of the trail map first published 12 years ago, which covers a geographic area from Peru south through Ticonderoga and into northern Warren County. New this year, the Northern Champlain Valley Trail Map expands north from Willsboro Point to Canada.

Both maps include topographical detail so hikers will know the physiographical context of the trails they’re hiking. All trails are listed in an easy-to-read chart form showing descriptions of each trail, length, degree of difficulty, directions, and special features such as overlooks and suitability for cross-country skiing or bicycling.

CATS was awarded a grant from the International Paper Foundation to help produce both of the new maps, and a grant for the 2019-2020 Northern Champlain Valley Trail Map was received from the New York State Conservation Partnership Program (NYSCPP).

CATS Business Sponsorships provided additional funding for each map; these CATS Business Sponsors are listed on the maps.

Gwen Vogel of Essex designed both maps, with ADK author David Thomas-Train providing the editorial work for the new map covering the northern part of the Champlain Valley. In addition, the Clinton County Health Department (CCHD) generously shared their art and information on trails in the Plattsburgh area for use in CATS edition. In a collaborative effort with CATS, the CCHD is also handling targeted distribution of the Northern Champlain Valley Trail Map to the health community in Clinton County.

CATS distributes the maps for free at throughout the Champlain Valley region at retail stores, area businesses and visitor centers, as well as by calling the CATS office at 518-962-2287 or info@champlainareatrails.com. There’s also a brochure box with maps on the CATS front door in Westport for after-hours pick up. While there is no charge for the maps, donations are always gratefully accepted.

“We want the trail maps—which are also an excellent road maps for the area—to be tools to be used over and over as people explore all the fabulous hiking opportunities in the Champlain Valley,” Maron said. “We’d be happy to replace any that get worn out!”