This is a nice little park off rt. 281 in Preble / Little York - right behind the Cortland Repertory Theater. The park includes a 1.6 mile-ish loop trail, plenty of picnic tables, barbecuing areas, a playground, and so on. The trail itself is nicely worn, and allows for various views of Little York Lake, and the place seems generally well maintained... including signage, plenty of garbage bins, clean pavilions, a basketball court, and all the basics.
Yes, rt. 81 is right on the other side of the park. In most areas of the park, this isn't really an issue and the sound is more buffered by the trees. Of course, the closer you get to the side of the park near the highway, the more disruptive... but this is a minimal part of the park. Interestingly, this is one of the reasons I wanted to bring my puppy here... basically because it's important that he be introduced to all different kinds of noise/sounds so as to not be so skittish when they do arise unexpectedly. The highway is fairly separated from the park (by water), so it feels nice and protected to be in the park in case there is a reaction (it's not like there was a risk of him running into the road or anything). He actually had a great time wandering through the woods and was unbothered by the traffic noises. Pets are generally welcome, of course, as well as they're on-leash and their owner cleans up after them.
All-in-all, an easy walk through a well maintained park. Very dog friendly as well. :) read more