Structure: Benches
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Adirondack Experience – Minnow Pond Trail
Location: Blue Mountain Lake, NY 🚨NOTE: The Minnow Pond Trail is generally open daily, July 1 – August 31, depending on weather, trail conditions, and events. The trail and boathouse may close without notice. This museum is located 4 hours east of Rochester, NY. The Minnow Pond Trail is a family-friendly 3/4-mile out and back… Read more
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Alden Town Park – Joe Panza Nature Trail
Location: Alden, NY This nature trail is located a bit over 1 hour west of Rochester, NY outside of Buffalo. The entire loop trail was around 1.5 miles and starts from the Alden Town Park Loop. The path was a mix of gravel and dirt and would not be considered very stroller friendly. The trail… Read more
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Amherst State Park – Ellicott Creek Trail
Location: Williamsville, NY This park is located 1.25 hours west of Rochester, NY near Buffalo. We parked in the lot by St. Mary’s Apartments and walked down the Ellicott Creek Trail (green trail on the map below). The stone dust path was flat and gently sloped with pretty fields. We walked about 1000 feet to… Read more
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Andrews Park and Trail
Location: Henrietta, NY This park is located in a neighborhood with gravel/stone dust trails through the woods with some swampy areas (and lots of bugs). We did the smallest 0.4 mile clockwise loop, but there were different side trails we didn’t try. The trail wasn’t muddy or wet when we went and was mostly flat.… Read more
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ARTWalk
Location: Rochester, NY ARTWalk is a permanent art trail in the Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA) in Rochester, NY. The route connects arts centers and public spaces along University Avenue between the Memorial Art Gallery and the George Eastman House. We parked at the Merriman Park Playground. There are a few pieces of art right… Read more
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Audubon Community Nature Center – Big Pond Trail
Location: Jamestown, NY This nature center is located 2.5 hours southwest of Rochester, NY and 1.5 hours south of Buffalo, NY. The Big Pond Trail is a 2 mile long loop trail blazed with yellow triangles and takes you through fields, forests and wetlands. This trail shares sections with the Overlook Trail and the Spatterdock… Read more
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Audubon Community Nature Center – Nature Center
Location: Jamestown, NY This nature center is located 2.5 hours southwest of Rochester, NY and 1.5 hours south of Buffalo, NY. The large interpretive nature center building has three floors with a huge variety of learning opportunity and hands-on exhibits for children. There are informational signs, interactive displays, live animals to view, and the third… Read more
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Audubon Community Nature Center – Nature Play Area
ocation: Jamestown, NY This nature center is located 2.5 hours southwest of Rochester, NY and 1.5 hours south of Buffalo, NY. One great spot in this nature center is the nature play area. Follow the painted animal prints on the paved path to a beautiful wooded area with large animals to climb on, wooden logs… Read more
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Audubon Community Nature Center – Overlook Trail
Location: Jamestown, NY This nature center is located 2.5 hours southwest of Rochester, NY and 1.5 hours south of Buffalo, NY. The Overlook Trail is a 0.6 mile long loop blazed with blue circles. The paved, stroller-friendly section of Overlook Trail takes you past ponds to the Blue Heron Overlook. The rest of the trail… Read more
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Audubon Community Nature Center – Spatterdock Trail
Location: Jamestown, NY This nature center is located 2.5 hours southwest of Rochester, NY and 1.5 hours south of Buffalo, NY. The Spatterdock Trail is a 1 mile loop trail blazed with orange squares. The trail passes by ponds, goes through both hemlock and hardwood forests, and leads to a photo blind and a side… Read more
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B. Forman Park
Location: Pultneyville, NY (Williamson) There are two playgrounds, one traditional and one with some fun features as well as a storybook walk! There are a couple gravel paths that lead down to the water, but to walk along the water there is only grass. There are many benches, grills, and beautiful views of Lake Ontario.… Read more
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Basil Marella Park
Location: Greece, NY This park is located 15 minutes northwest of Rochester, NY. We then started walking on the path alongside the tennis courts to the Route 390 Trail. When we got to the fork in the path, we turned right. This led us down a paved path through really beautiful woods. We walked a… Read more
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Beatty Point Trails
Location: Greece, NY NOTE: Hunting is allowed at this site; check with DEC for hunting season dates. This trail is located 20 minutes northwest of Rochester, NY near the shore of Lake Ontario. This hiking area is located in the town of Greece open space, surrounded by the Braddock Bay Wildlife Management Area. The hike… Read more
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Beechwood State Park
Location: Sodus, NY This beautiful park is located 40 minutes east of Rochester, NY along the shore of Lake Ontario. Camp Beechwood used to be a girl scout camp and is now maintained by the town of Sodus. We parked at the gravel parking area on Gates Drive (off of Lake Road) and hiked the… Read more
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Blue Cut Nature Center
Location: Lyons, NY This beautiful hiking area is located 45 minutes east of Rochester, NY. We parked at the parking lot near the restrooms and picnic area then walked along the line of evergreen trees and past the field to the next pavilion and picnic area. According to the official website there are several trails… Read more
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Braddock Bay – Marina Trail
Location: Greece, NY This trail begins near the marina at Braddock Bay and goes past several small beaches along the shore of Lake Ontario. There is an informational sign and bench at the start of the trail. The trail is short (about a half mile each way). We saw swans and heard many different types… Read more
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Braddock Bay – Owl Woods
Location: Greece, NY Braddock Bay is located 20 minutes northwest of Rochester, NY near Lake Ontario. This trail was really beautiful with pine trees, some benches, and a tree tunnel. There are signs about what to do if you see an owl, but we didn’t see any. There is a big loop and also a… Read more
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Breese Park
Location: West Henrietta, NY We love this short, flat, stroller friendly trail located along the Genesee River 20 minutes southwest of Rochester, NY. The trail is a 1/2 mile stone dust loop with nature-themed play/exercise stations, informational signs, and musical instruments along the trail. There is also an exercise area for adults tucked in the… Read more
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Brighton Memorial Library – Children’s Literary Garden
Location: Brighton, NY This super short paved garden trail is located just next to the Brighton Memorial Library. The path starts out with several wooden archways and is lined with literary quotes related to gardens and wonder. There is a bench, a small fairy garden, and a memorial. Around the other side of the library… Read more
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Brighton Town Park
Location: Brighton, NY This lovely park is located 10 minutes south of Rochester, NY. There are two walking areas here in addition to baseball fields, pavilions, a lodge, restrooms, and a new playground. There are picnic tables and benches as well. Trail Map: Trail Map AllTrails: Brighton Town Park Trail (this 1.8 mile loop includes the… Read more
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Browncroft Rose Garden Park
Location: Rochester, NY This small corner park is located at the intersection of Merchants Road and Browncroft Blvd in the city of Rochester. While there are no paths in the park, there is a grassy area to walk around or sit on a bench and enjoy the varieties of roses and other plants. There are… Read more
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Buckland Park Loop
Location: Brighton, NY Buckland Park is located 10 minutes south of Rochester, NY. This park has many sports fields, picnic areas, pavilions, seasonal restrooms, three playgrounds, and a 1-mile stone-dust path around the perimeter. The path goes through some wetland areas with a few bridges, passes by a handful of pine trees, and some benches.… Read more
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Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
Location: Buffalo, NY These beautiful indoor botanical gardens are located 1 hour 15 minutes west of Rochester, NY near Buffalo. There are multiple different rooms for different types of plants. The gardens are accessible and stroller friendly. There is a koi pond, a kids play area, an art gallery, restrooms, and a gift shop. There… Read more
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Burroughs Audubon Nature Club Sanctuary
Location: Victor, NY This beautiful trail network is located 20 minutes southeast of Rochester, NY. This sanctuary is private property belonging to the Burroughs Audubon Nature Club (BANC). Members may use the trails without a fee. Non-members may also use the trails but should donate to contribute to trail maintenance. The trails pass through woodlands… Read more
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Butterfly Nature Trail at Macedon Canal Park
Location: Macedon, NY This unique trail located 25 minutes southeast of Rochester is considered a “Forever Wild for Everyone Trail”. Along this accessible, stone dust trail there are numerous things to look at including informational signs about birds and butterflies, gardens, fairy houses, benches, painted rocks, and some old relics and info about the history… Read more
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Camp Eastman
Location: Rochester/Irondequoit, NY This is a super duper short (~0.1 mile) little paved loop path near Lake Ontario in Rochester, NY. The path passes by playground equipment (including accessible features), a gazebo, benches, animal trackers interactive signs, and some percussion instruments. There are sports fields nearby and a splashpad. There was construction going on when… Read more
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Canadice Lake – East Shore
Location: Canadice, NY This tiny Finger Lake is located 50 minutes south of Rochester, NY. Canadice Lake is a water reservoir for the City of Rochester and there is no development permitted along the shoreline. It feels so woodsy and peaceful. While there is a hiking trail along the west shore of Canadice Lake, the… Read more
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Canandaigua Vista Nature Preserve
Location: Canandaigua, NY NOTE: Canandaigua Vista Nature Preserve is open for hunting during appropriate seasons. Please use caution. This nature preserve is located 45 minutes south of Rochester, NY. There is a 1.2 mile loop with an optional 0.2 mile cut through path. When we visited, the loop was unable to be completed due to… Read more
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Canawaugus Park
Location: Scottsville, NY We really enjoyed this peaceful park about 25 minutes southwest of Rochester, NY. It is located along Oatka Creek. in Scottsville. There were two benches overlooking the creek at the “Oatka Overlook”. There is a bridge, known as the “George Bridge”, more benches, picnic tables, and a grassy field. From Canawaugus Park,… Read more
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Cayuga Nature Center – TreeTops Treehouse
Location: Ithaca, NY We had so much fun visiting this nature center 1.5 hours south of Rochester! We especially enjoyed climbing the six-story treehouse in the woods! To reach the tree house, walk through the gate to to the left of the lodge and walk around back. Then follow the gravel path that winds back… Read more
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Center Park West
Location: Perinton, NY This park is located 25 minutes east of Rochester, NY. This park is located behind the Fairport Rec Center and is home of the amphitheater where performances occur. There is a brand new playground as of summer 2025 that is musical themed and has inclusive features. When we visited in August 2025,… Read more
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Charles E. Sexton Memorial Park (North Ponds Park)
Location: Webster, NY This park is located 20 minutes east of Rochester, NY. There are two beautiful ponds with a 1-mile paved path around them. There are benches, picnic tables, fitness stations, restrooms near the southern parking area, and a disc golf course. This trail connects to the Hojack Trail and the Bird Sanctuary Trail.… Read more
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Chimney Bluffs State Park – Meadow Trail
Location: Huron, NY This beautiful state park is located one hour east of Rochester, NY along the shore of Lake Ontario. The Meadow Trail is a 0.2 mile out and back path from the main parking lot to the shore (0.4 miles round trip). The trail is flat, paved, and stroller friendly. There is a… Read more
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Clark Reservation State Park – Cliff Trail
Location: Jamesville, NY This state park is located 1.5 hours east of Rochester, NY near Syracuse. This park has restrooms, an interpretive center, gardens, a nature theme playground, and nature trails. The Cliff Trail is a 0.62 mile trail that starts near the main parking area by the interpretive center. It can be made into… Read more
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Clift Park
Location: Skaneateles I visited this park in Lake George in 2015 and we enjoyed the festive gazebo, lit up tree at the end of the pier, and the views of the lake. I didn’t take many pictures or explore much, so I’ll have to go back and will share more photos and information then! Official… Read more
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Cobb’s Hill Park/Lake Riley
Location: Rochester, NY The bottom part of Cobb’s Hill Park, located along Culver Road in the city of Rochester, has a lot to offer! While there is not an official hiking trail, there is a nice walking path from behind the playground up to the tennis courts that connects all the way to Monroe Ave… Read more
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Cobb’s Hill Reservoir
Location: Rochester, NY Cobb’s Hill Reservoir, located in the city of Rochester, has a great view of downtown. There is a 0.7 mile flat paved loop around a fenced-in reservoir. There are benches at the overlook as well as several wooded areas around the reservoir. There is an additional path through the woods that leads… Read more
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Cornwall Preserve – Cass Meadow Trail
Location: Williamson, NY This Genesee Land Trust nature preserve is located 30 minutes east of Rochester, NY on the shore of Lake Ontario. We parked at the trailhead on Lake Road and walked about 0.4 mile on the Cass Meadow Trail to the Lake Bluff Trail and enjoyed beautiful views of the lake and informational… Read more
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Davis Park
Location: Chili, NY This park west of Rochester has a paved walking path from one end to the other, two playgrounds (one traditional playground and one accessible playground), a free little library, tennis courts, benches, pavilions, restrooms, and soccer/baseball fields. Official Website: Town of Chili Read more
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Dolomite Trail
Location: Walworth, NY This trail is located 25 minutes east of Rochester, NY. This one mile loop trail goes through brush, pine trees, and wooded areas to an observation deck over a marshy area. There is a random bathtub along the trail, a few benches, and some tree identification signs. The trail is dirt and… Read more
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Durand Eastman Park – Arboretum
Location: Rochester, NY The beautiful arboretum at Durand Eastman Park is located within the city of Rochester, NY near the shore of Lake Ontario. The arboretum extends between Zoo Road, Pine Valley Road, and Sweet Fern Road. There are several parking areas along Zoo Road where you can get out and view many varieties of… Read more
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Durand Eastman Park – Eastman Lake Trail
Location: Rochester, NY This 1.7 mile loop trail is located in Durand Eastman Park, right across the road from Lake Ontario in the city of Rochester, NY. The trail goes around the beautiful Eastman Lake and passes through a small pine grove, a section of evergreen Great Laurel bushes, and some wetlands. The trail is… Read more
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Durand Eastman Park – Log Cabin Road
Location: Rochester, NY Durand Eastman Park is located along Lake Ontario in the city of Rochester. There are several trails in the park with beautiful views. We drove the Log Cabin Road and parked at the loop near the shelters. This spot is surrounded by a canopy of tall trees. There is a traditional playground… Read more
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Durand Eastman Park – Pinetum
Location: Rochester, NY On my hunt to find all of the pine tree hikes in the Rochester area, I had to check out the pinetum at Durand Eastman Park. We parked in the lot on Zoo Road (near this GPS location: 43.231822, -77.555594 and the sign for the “Labor Center”). During the winter months, Zoo… Read more
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Ellison Park – North Landing Entrance
Location: Penfield, NY Ellison Park is a beautiful park less than 10 minutes east of Rochester, NY. We like to park at the North Landing Entrance. There are restrooms here and a popular sledding hill. Just behind the restrooms is a paved path. The path goes downhill and curves to the right. The pine tree-lined… Read more
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Ellwanger & Barry Park
Location: Rochester, NY This small park is located southeast quadrant of the city of Rochester, NY. There is a large sandbox, a field, and two playgrounds where neighbors have brought toys for children to enjoy. There is a very short paved loop path which is great for kids. The park has benches, picnic tables, a… Read more
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Eternal Flame Trail
Location: Orchard Park, NY This magical trail is located 1.5 hours west of Rochester, NY near Buffalo. After parking in the large parking lot, we started walking down the flat gravel trail with a few benches. The trail then enters a beautiful pine forest. There are numbered flame signs on trees along the way, so… Read more
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Eva & Harlan Braman Preserve
Location: Webster, NY This Genesee Land Trust nature preserve is located 15 minutes east of Rochester, NY! We visited this trail on a gloomy November day, and even in those conditions it was very peaceful and pretty. I imagine in the spring and summer it is full of flowers, pollinators, birds and other wildlife. This… Read more
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Finn Park Nature Trail
Location: Webster, NY This beautiful nature park is located 15 minutes northeast of Rochester, NY. My hike was overall 1.3 miles long. It started with quarter mile path through a wooded area with a few small bridges and one spot with two benches that leads to a meadow. Then I hiked the ~0.75 loop around… Read more
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Four Mile Creek Preserve
Location: Webster, NY This network of wooded trails with beautiful creek views is located 30 minutes northeast of Rochester, NY. Throughout the trail are informational signs about different trees as well as helpful trail map signs. There are wooden bridges, benches, sections of boardwalk, and a nice observation deck not too far along the trail.… Read more
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Ganondagan – Earth is Our Mother Trail
Location: Victor, NY Note: There is hunting allowed at Ganondagan. Do your research before visiting these hiking trails and take safety precautions. Ganondagan, located 25 minutes south of Rochester, is the original site of a 17th century Seneca town. Today, it is home to the Ganondagan State Historic Site and miles of beautiful trails. The… Read more
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Ganondagan – Granary Trail at Fort Hill
Location: Victor, NY Note: There is hunting allowed at Ganondagan. Do your research before visiting these hiking trails and take safety precautions. Ganondagan, located 25 minutes south of Rochester, is the original site of a 17th century Seneca town. Today, it is home to the Ganondagan State Historic Site and miles of beautiful trails. The… Read more
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Genesee Country Village & Museum – Fairy House Trail
Location: Mumford, NY GCV&M is located 30 minutes west of Rochester, NY. Next to the historic village is a nature center and trail system. Just behind the nature center is a short, flat path lined with fairy houses. Just follow the trail behind the nature center and continue the trail to the left. It is… Read more
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Genesee Country Village & Museum – Historic Village
Location: Mumford, NY GCV&M is located 30 minutes west of Rochester, NY. It is the largest living history museum in New York State spanning 600 acres. The village and museum offer an immersive experience of 19th-century American life. It features 68 relocated and restored buildings from the Genesee Valley region, representing three time periods: Pioneer… Read more
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Genesee Country Village & Museum – Nature Center
Location: Mumford, NY GCV&M is located 30 minutes west of Rochester, NY. Next to the historic village is a nature center and trail system. The nature center has a peaceful pond out front with benches, a bridge, flowers, a picnic pavilion, and a little free library. Inside the nature center are some live turtles and… Read more
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Genesee County Park & Forest – ACORNS Outdoor Learning Center
Location: East Bethany, NY This outdoor learning center is located 45 minutes west of Rochester, NY. The ACORNS Outdoor Learning Center is located right next to the Interpretive Center. There is a wildlife observation deck, gazebo, benches, large field, sensory garden, “messy materials” area, “discovery trail”, and more! I can’t wait to check this out… Read more
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Genesee County Park & Forest – Forestry Trail
Location: East Bethany, NY This beautiful 0.61 mile loop trail is located 45 minutes west of Rochester, NY. The Forestry trail is connected to many other trails in a large network. We accessed the trail via the 0.08 mile connector trail past Turtle Pond starting from the Interpretive Center parking lot, but there are other… Read more
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Genesee County Park & Forest – Play Area
Location: East Bethany, NY This beautiful park is located 45 minutes west of Rochester, NY. In the northeast corner of the park property is a parking area that is closed in the winter. There are pavilions to rent, public restrooms, benches, a traditional playground, and beautiful evergreen trees. From here, you can access the Plantation Trail… Read more
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Genesee Valley Park – Red Creek Trail
Location: Rochester, NY This park is located in the city of Rochester, NY. The Red Creek Trail is 0.6 miles each way (1.2 round trip) starting from the Tupelo Shelter. The paved path travels alongside Red Creek and passes by pavilions, ball fields, and beautiful trees. A few short detours can take you to some… Read more
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Geneva Lakefront Trail
Location: Geneva, NY This trail is located at the northern shore of Seneca Lake, 45 minutes southeast of Rochester, NY. The 4.4 mile long out and back path is paved and stroller friendly. The trail passes the Finger Lakes Welcome Center (with the I LOVE NY sign), Geneva Lakefront Park, Seneca Lake State Park, Long… Read more
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Glen Park
Location: Williamsville, NY We visited this beautiful park on a recent trip to Buffalo, located 1.5 hours west of Rochester, NY. We parked near the Nature Play Playground which had fun signs for kids, a mural, a pavilion, a Little Free Library, and beautiful hand painted benches. We walked across the street to the view… Read more
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Gosnell Big Woods Preserve – Big Field Trail
Location: Webster, NY NOTE: Gosnell Big Woods Preserve is open for hunting during the appropriate season. Read all posted signs and follow safety precautions during hunting season. This beautiful nature preserve is located 15 minutes east of Rochester, NY near the shore of Lake Ontario. This preserve has an old-growth forest, a field, and a… Read more
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Great Embankment Park
Location: Pittsford, NY This park is located along the Erie Canal 15 minutes east of Rochester, NY. We parked in the lot by the bathrooms and walked up the steep, gravel path to play on the really nice playground! We then continued along the stone dust path to the canal and walked along the stone… Read more
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Greece Canal Park – West Trail
Location: Greece, NY This trail is located 15 minutes west of Rochester, NY. The West Trail is an easy 0.4 mile path over level terrain with beautiful nature and wildlife. The trail is near a playground, restrooms, tennis courts, a handful of pine trees, and sports fields. Trail Map: Park Map; Trail Map Official Website:… Read more
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Greece Town Campus Walking Path
Location: Greece, NY The Greece Town Hall Campus Walking Trail is located 20 minutes northwest of Rochester near the Greece Public Library and Community Center. There is a 1/2 mile paved, accessible, stroller friendly path around the pond that includes a StoryWalk, benches, exercise stations, dock platform, Little Free Library, and pickleball court. Near this… Read more
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Green Lakes State Park – Green Lake Trail
Location: Fayetteville, NY This beautiful state park is located 1.5 hours east of Rochester, NY just south of Syracuse. The Green Lake Trail is a 2 mile loop trail that circles Green Lake with beautiful views and some informational signs. The path is stone dust and is stroller friendly. It can be combined with the… Read more
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Green Lakes State Park – Grounds
Location: Fayetteville, NY This beautiful state park is located 1.5 hours east of Rochester, NY just south of Syracuse. General Park Info: Trail Map: Trail Map AllTrails: Green Lake to Round Lake Trail Official Website: NY State Parks; Go Finger Lakes Other Websites: NY Falls; Uncovering New York; CNY Hiking Read more
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Green Lake State Park – Round Lake Trail
Location: Fayetteville, NY This beautiful state park is located 1.5 hours east of Rochester, NY just south of Syracuse. The Green Lake Trail is a 1 mile loop trail that circles Round Lake with beautiful views and some benches and informational signs. The path is stone dust and is stroller friendly. It can be reached… Read more
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Hamburg Clock Tower
Location: Hamburg, NY This clock tower on the shore of Lake Erie is located near Buffalo, just over 1 hour west of Rochester. We stopped here to park and stretch our legs on a drive and enjoyed the beautiful lake views and the informative historical signs. There were a few benches and a paved deck,… Read more
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Hamlin Beach State Park – Beach Boardwalk
Location: Hamlin, NY This state park is located 30 minutes northwest of Rochester, NY along the shore of Lake Ontario. The Beach Boardwalk is a 1.84 mile path along the lakeshore between Devil’s Nose and the Yanty Marsh. The stroller friendly path is paved and passes playgrounds, picnic areas, restrooms, and swimming beaches. There are… Read more
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Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area
Location: Springwater, NY This beautiful park is located about an hour south of Rochester, NY. There are wooded hiking trails and an amazing scenic view with a bench overlooking Honeoye Lake. According to their website “Overlook Road leading into the park from the parking lot passes by a spectacular view of the length of Honeoye… Read more
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Harris Whalen Park
Location: Penfield, NY This park is located 15 minutes east of Rochester, NY. We started at the playground that had a few older metal structures and a more modern structure with slides and a bridge. We then hiked along the winding network of short trails through the woods. The full loop consisting of the East… Read more
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Hart’s Woods Trail
Location: Perinton, NY This beautiful trail through an old growth forest is located 20 minutes east of Rochester, NY. We parked on the street at the dead end of Greenwood Cliff. The trail also appears to go to Minerva Deland School, but I do not know the rules about parking there. There also appear to… Read more
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Helmer Nature Center
Location: Irondequoit, NY This beautiful nature center is part of the West Irondequoit Central School District and is located 15 minutes north of Rochester, NY. There are wooded trails, meadows, wetlands, a stream, and a pond. In addition there are some bridges, benches, and a wildlife viewing area. There are a network of short trails… Read more
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Hemlock Lake Park
Location: Hemlock, NY This beautiful park on the north end of Hemlock Lake is located 40 minutes south of Rochester, NY. There is a pine tree grove, picnic area, pavilion, restrooms, pond and some basic playground equipment. Then there are stairs and an inclined gravel path up to the beautiful views of the lake and… Read more
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Herman Road Forever Wild Forest
Location: Webster, NY This is a beautiful network of trails through a dense forest. It felt really magical on a cool October afternoon. The trails were dirt and narrow, and had some steeper hills toward the back of the park. The trails are shared use with bikers, so be aware. Supposedly there are a half-buried… Read more
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Hickory Bark Trail
Location: Webster, NY This trail is located 15 minutes northeast of Rochester, NY. This short trail is hidden away in a tiny wooded area behind a shopping plaza and the Webster Library! This trail is only 400 feet long and consists entirely of wooden boardwalks. There are benches along the path, birdhouses in the trees, a… Read more
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Highland Park – Lamberton Conservatory
Location: Rochester, NY This indoor conservatory is one of our favorite spots in Highland Park! We love to walk the loop to see all of the beautiful plants, trees, and flowers as well as the button quails, turtles, tortoises, and fish. There are benches to sit and enjoy the sights. It is always warm and… Read more
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Highland Park – Lamberton Conservatory Holiday Show (SEASONAL)
This annual holiday light show at the Lamberton Conservatory at Highland Park is one of our favorite activities! My main post on the Lamberton Conservatory can be found here. 2024 Holiday Show Schedule Read more
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Highland Park – Lilac Adventure Zone
Location: Rochester, NY Lilac Adventure Zone, located in the City of Rochester NY, is part of Highland Park. There is a natural play area made of logs for climbing and playing plus some benches, picnic tables, large parking lot, and restrooms. There is a tiny 0.1 mile walking path in a loop around the play… Read more
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Highland Park – Poets Garden
Location: Rochester, NY This 275-foot long pathway is a peaceful spot in Highland Park located across from the Lamberton Conservatory. There are stone benches with Shakespeare’s quotes, a sundial, bird bath, and a variety of plants and trees. Just next to this path is the paved walking path, a hollowed out tree, and a traditional… Read more
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Highland Park – Sunken Garden at Warner Castle
Location: Rochester, NY This beautiful garden is a peaceful place to walk around at Highland Park. The Warner Castle is home to the Landmark Society offices, but the garden in the back is open to the public. There is parking in front or it can be reached by walking from the other parts of the… Read more
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Highland Park – Walking Path
Location: Rochester, NY Highland Park is one of my favorite parks in the Rochester area. There is so much to see in any season. I spend a lot of my visits walking along the paved walking path. While there are some stairs, they can be avoided! There are some hills, many benches, a reservoir, and… Read more
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Hipp Brook Preserve – Wild Iris Path
Location: Penfield, NY This Genesee Land Trust nature preserve is located 15 minutes east of Rochester, NY. This was a really nice wooded path and wetland walk. The path was compacted soil, mulch, and boardwalk. There is no parking lot as this nature area is in a neighborhood setting. We parked on the shoulder of… Read more
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Holley Canal Falls
Location: Holley, NY Holley Canal Falls is a waterfall located 40 minutes west of Rochester, NY that can be viewed without any hiking. You can park right near the falls (porta potty at the parking lot) and enjoy the view from your car or one of the benches, picnic tables, or the pavilion. There are… Read more
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Holley Canal Park
Location: Holley, NY This is a lovely park located on the Erie Canal in Holley, NY. Up near the canal there is a gazebo, a pavilion, a Little Free Library, restrooms and a porta potty, accessible parking, informational signs, benches, and a paved path along the canal. There is a paved path or a gravel… Read more
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Honeoye Falls
Location: Honeoye Falls, NY We visited this beautiful and accessible waterfall located 25 minutes south of Rochester, NY. We parked in the lot next to the Mendon Town Clerk (also shown as Vest Pocket Park on Google Maps). From there, you can walk right up to the viewing platform next to the building overlooking the… Read more
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Hoskins Park
Location: Henrietta, NY This tiny park is located 15 minutes south of Rochester, NY. There is a 0.25 mile loop path through this park. The surface is mostly stone dist but one small section is grass. There is a spot with two benches and a small trellis. There are also two new picnic tables. The… Read more
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Huckleberry Swamp (SEASONAL)
Location: North Rose, NY 🚨Note: this trail is NOT always open for hiking! I believe it’s closed every Monday for trail maintenance and also closed in the fall and winter!! Their Facebook page is the best way to get updated information🚨 This is a gorgeous and peaceful wetland trail 45 minutes east of Rochester! There… Read more
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Hundred Acres Nature Park
Location: Rush, NY This nature park is located 20 minutes southwest of Rochester, NY. There was a small gravel parking lot with a sign that looks like it fell over. We walked the grassy path through the fields and saw many new trees growing. This path led us to some beautiful views of the Genesee… Read more
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Irene Gossin Nature Preserve
Location: Penfield, NY This beautiful Genesee Land Trust nature preserve is located 15 minutes east of Rochester, NY. This is such a lovely spot to walk and hike! There is a small gravel parking lot right in front of the preserve or you can park across the street at Rothfuss Park and walk over. The… Read more
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Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge – Kanyoo Trail
Location: Basom, NY This beautiful hiking area is located 1 hour west of Rochester, NY. This trail has two loops: the yellow trail is 0.7 mile and the blue trail is 1 mile or the trails can be combined (see the map below). The trails pass through wooded areas and vernal wetlands. There is a… Read more
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Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge – Swallow Hollow Nature Trail
Location: Basom, NY This beautiful hiking area is located 1 hour west of Rochester, NY. This trail is a 1.3 mile loop through marsh, forested wetlands, and upland habitat including a beautiful evergreen forest. There is a long elevated boardwalk section and gravel paths as well as several benches, bridges, and informational signs along the… Read more
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Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge – Visitor Center
cation: Basom, NY This beautiful hiking area is located 1 hour west of Rochester, NY. The visitor center has a sculpture garden and a small picnic area outside and interactive exhibits, a gift shop, live fish, and restrooms inside. Trail Map: Park Map; Interactive Trail Map Official Website: Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge Other Websites: Day Trips Around Rochester NY Read more
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Isaac Gordon Nature Park
Location: Pittsford, NY This nature park is located 15 minutes south of Rochester, NY just north of Mendon Ponds Park. We followed the 1 mile “Glazer Loop” trail shown on AllTrails and the trail map below, though there are several branching trails that could make it longer and some cut throughs that could make it… Read more
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Ithaca Children’s Garden
Location: Ithaca, NY This is a magical and wonderful place to walk around in Ithaca, located 1.5 hours southeast of Rochester. There is so much to do! There is a giant turtle you can walk on, multiple gardens, a play area, story walk, music garden, troll house, playground, and so much more! Important Info from… Read more
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Ithaca Falls
Location: Ithaca, NY This beautiful Finger Lakes waterfall is located 1.5 hours southeast of Rochester, NY. There is a short 0.2 mile rocky, gravel trail to the waterfalls with a small hill. I do not think it was very stroller friendly due to uneven terrain. However, there is an accessible partial view of the waterfall… Read more
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Jones-Blunt Park
Location: Shortsville, NY This park is located 30 minutes southeast of Rochester, NY. It is a really cute park along the Canandaigua Outlet in Shortsville. There are swinging benches along the river, an overlook platform, a large gazebo, and a small hiking area with two small bridges. We walked across the grass toward the small… Read more
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Kennelly Park
Location: Fairport, NY This park is located 15 minutes east of Rochester, NY. The park is on the Erie Canal just next to the Fairport Public Library. There is a gazebo where there are events and concerts as well as an art sculpture. A short paved path leads to some picnic tables and a fenced… Read more
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Kent Park – Hiking Trails
Location: Webster, NY This park is located 20 minutes east of Rochester, NY. Behind the Webster Arboretum at Kent Park is a network of short hiking trails. The paths are grassy and can be very muddy and wet after rain. There is a bench, a boardwalk, a small bridge, a swamp area with a poem,… Read more
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Kent Park – Webster Arboretum
Location: Webster, NY This park and arboretum is located 20 minutes east of Rochester, NY. There are gazebos, multiple benches, a pond with a fountain, a playground, and a narrow stone dust path. There are a large variety of trees and plants planted around the arboretum. This is a great park to visit in the… Read more
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Kershaw Park
Location: Canandaigua, NY This beautiful park is located 40 minutes southeast of Rochester, NY along the shore of Canandaigua Lake. There is a gazebo, pavilion, benches, a swimming beach, restrooms, playground, and picnic area. The paved path has beautiful views of the lake. Official Websites: Visit Finger Lakes, City of Canandaigua Read more
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King’s Bend Park
Location: Pittsford, NY This park is located 12 minutes south of Rochester, NY. This small park has a playground and several shelters. There is a pond for catch-and-release fishing, benches, and a stone dust trail that makes a small 0.1 mile loop and also goes 0.2 mile each way to the end of the pond… Read more
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Krull Park
Location: Olcott, NY This park is located on the shore of Lake Ontario, 1.5 hours west of Rochester, NY. It’s a lovely view with the lake down below, with many benches and picnic tables as well as an observation deck overlooking the water. There are many shady trees, restrooms, pavilions, and tic tac toe shelters.… Read more
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Labrador Hollow Unique Area – Boardwalk Trail
Location: Tully, NY This trail is located south of Syracuse – just about 2 hour east of Rochester, NY. This nature area is located in the middle of a valley that was dug out by glacial movement around ten thousand years ago. This accessible and stroller-friendly trail is a 0.4 mile loop boardwalk with views… Read more
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Labrador Hollow Unique Area – Tinker Falls
Location: Tully, NY This trail is located south of Syracuse – just about 2 hour east of Rochester, NY. This nature area is located in the middle of a valley that was dug out by glacial movement around ten thousand years ago. We hiked the accessible part of the trail (0.25 miles each way) to… Read more
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LaSalle’s Landing Park
Location: Penfield, NY This small park is located northeast of Rochester, NY along the Irondequoit Bay. There is fishing access and a small canoe/kayak launch. There is a short sidewalk to an area with picnic tables, bench, and informational sign. There is another short sidewalk that ends with views of Irondequoit Bay. Official Website: Town… Read more
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Leolyn Woods and Fairy Trail at Lily Dale
Location: Lily Dale, NY This trail is located in Chautauqua County – 2.5 hours southwest of Rochester, NY and 1.5 hours south of Buffalo. Leolyn Woods is a peaceful old-growth forest with towering trees that are hundreds of years old. The Fairy Trail is a beautiful trail through the woods with many fairies, fairy houses, gnome… Read more
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Legion Eyer Park
Location: East Rochester, NY We enjoyed this peaceful park located 15 minutes southeast of Rochester, NY. We first parked at the small parking lot just outside of the park entrance. From here you can hike part of the the Rochester, Syracuse, & Eastern Trolley Trail (RS&E Trail). This was a pretty flat dirt and grass… Read more
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Letchworth State Park – Autism Nature Trail
Location: Castile, NY The Autism Nature Trail is located one hour southwest of Rochester, NY at Letchworth State Park. According to its website, “The Autism Nature Trail is for everyone—especially those with ASD and those with different levels of abilities—to visit, enjoy and explore nature.” It is a beautiful trail through the woods with sensory… Read more
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Letchworth State Park – Highbanks Recreation Area Playground
Location: Mt Morris, NY This park is located 1 hour southwest of Rochester, NY. The Highbanks Recreation Area is located at the northern end of the park, near the town of Mt. Morris. The playground is fantastic – with unique, nature-themed features, informational signs, and some inclusive elements. Behind the playground is access to the Highbanks… Read more
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Letchworth State Park – Inspiration Point
This park is located 1 hour southwest of Rochester, NY. There are numerous trails and viewpoints throughout the park. Inspiration Point has breathtaking views of Middle Falls from above! There is a short, stroller friendly path through the woods to the overlook with benches to sit and take in the views. You can also find… Read more
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Letchworth State Park – Wolf Creek
Location: Castile, NY This park is located 1 hour southwest of Rochester, NY. There are numerous trails and viewpoints throughout the park. The Wolf Creek area has a beautiful wooden bridge and picnic tables along the creek. If you climb the stone stairs, it leads to the Gorge Trail that spans the park. The trail… Read more
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Linear Garden
Location: Rochester, NY This lovely pocket park is located in the North Winton Village neighborhood of the City of Rochester. There is a short and narrow stone dust path, about 500 feet long, that is stroller friendly. There are some benches, beautiful flowers, and garden beds. There is a small wooden structure with chairs underneath… Read more
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Lions Park
Location: Gates, NY This park is located 10 minutes west of Rochester, NY. There is a 0.4 mile stroller-friendly paved path around the perimeter of the park. It passes by a pond and a small wooded area. According to the official website: “The park features 3 lighted tennis courts, lighted basketball court, sand volleyball, ball… Read more
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Lock 32 Canal Park
Location: Pittsford, NY This park is located 10 minutes east of Rochester, NY. This is a beautiful spot to access the Erie Canalway Trail for a stroll along the canal. There are benches and informational signs near the parking lot. If you walk west along the canal, you will pass by the historic lock 32… Read more
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Lock 62 Canal Park (Railroad Loop Trail)
Location: Pittsford, NY This park features a historic Erie Canal lock and is a stop on the ~5 mile Railroad Loop Trail. You can park behind Wegmans in Pittsford to access the Lock 62 Canal Park. There is a gravel trail to walk and a bench overlooking the old canal lock. You can also walk… Read more
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Long Point State Park on Lake Chautauqua – The Point Trail and Minturn Trail
Location: Bemus Point, NY This park is located in Chautauqua County – 2.5 hours southwest of Rochester, NY and 1.5 hours south of Buffalo. Long Point, which juts into Lake Chautauqua, is one of the moraines left by a retreating glacier long ago. A highlight of the park is the Point Trail or Minturn Trail,… Read more
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Lucille Ball Memorial Park
Location: Celoron, NY This park is located 2.5 hours southwest of Rochester, NY and 1.5 hours south of Buffalo, NY. This park is dedicated to Lucille Ball whose hometown was Celoron. There are two statues of her and a memorial plaque. We enjoyed the huge and inclusive playground with many fun structures for kids of… Read more
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Luensman Overview Park
Location: Portland, NY This park is located in Chautauqua County – 2.5 hours southwest of Rochester, NY and 1.5 hours south of Buffalo. Just near the parking lot you can find a pavilion, a large mowed sloped area, and two observation decks with wide views of the surrounding hills and Lake Erie in the distance.… Read more
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Maguire Family Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: Ontario, NY This Genesee Land Trust wildlife sanctuary is located 30 minutes east of Rochester, NY. It is a short, half mile loop hike through woodlands and wetlands with beautiful creek views. There is a small stream crossing at the beginning, but it was pretty easy to hop on the rocks (not sure if… Read more
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Manchester Gateway Trail
Location: Manchester, NY This trail is located 30 minutes southeast of Rochester, NY. We parked in the small parking area at the northern end of the trail at Route 96 in Manchester. We then walked the 1.5 mile paved and stone dust path along the beautiful Canandaigua Outlet. Along the path were lookout viewpoints, fitness… Read more
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Maplewood Rose Garden
Location: Rochester, NY The Maplewood Rose Garden is located in the City of Rochester. This park has grassy paths through many varieties of roses. There are a couple of gazebos, benches under the shade of trees, and a fountain. There is access to the Genesee Riverway Trail and Lower Falls Park (there are stairs down… Read more
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Mark Tubbs Memorial Park
Location: Lima, NY This park is located 30 minutes south of Rochester in Lima, NY features a playground, gazebo, and a gravel/grass trail that leads to a pond. We walked around the well-marked stone dust trails starting with the Bluebird Crossing trail and made our way to the pond. There was one section of rough… Read more
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MaryFrances Bluebird Haven
Location: Victor, NY We visited this beautiful nature area on an October morning. This park is supposed to be great for birdwatching, particularly bluebirds so I look forward to returning in the spring/summer! There is a 1-mile trail around the perimeter of the park that is through low trees and then a forest area. It… Read more
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Mead Square Park – Holiday Lights
Location: Victor, NY This small park is located right on Main Street in Victor. The brick path is only 200 feet long. There are several benches along the path. The holiday lights make this a nice spot to visit in December! Trail Map: Park Map Official Website: Town of Victor Read more
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Memorial Art Gallery – Centennial Sculpture Park
Location: Rochester, NY This museum is located in the city of Rochester. The Centennial Sculpture Park at the Memorial Art Gallery opened in 2013 to celebrate the museum’s 100th anniversary. The grounds are free and open year-round with paved paths to walk around and see large outdoor sculptures by well-known artists. From here you can… Read more
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Mendon Ponds Park – Birdsong Fairy Trail
Location: Mendon/Pittsford, NY This super fun trail located 20 minutes south of Rochester, NY is lined with fairy doors and fairy houses that are painted on and built into the trees. There are other whimsical treasures and informative displays to be found along the path. This trail is stroller friendly with a durable stroller, with… Read more
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Mendon Ponds Park – Log Play Area
Location: Mendon/Pittsford, NY Mendon Ponds Park is located 20 minutes south of Rochester, NY. The natural log play area is located near Wild Wings Nature Center and birds of prey sanctuary, Sharon’s Sensory Garden, and the Birdsong Fairy Trail. There are large logs to climb over and inside of, a wooden table and several other… Read more
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Mendon Ponds Park – North Meadow Trail
Location: Mendon/Pittsford, NY This trail located in Mendon Ponds Park, 20 minutes south of Rochester, NY. The trail is a 1.8-mile loop with some medium-sized hills and path that switches between grass, dirt, and some gravel. There are some cut through trails that can make this shorter. According to the Monroe County website: “The North… Read more
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Mendon Ponds Park – Sharon’s Sensory Garden
Location: Mendon/Pittsford, NY This beautiful garden is located in Mendon Ponds Park, 20 minutes south of Rochester, NY. I obviously did not visit at the right time – this garden would be much better in spring or summer when things are in bloom and not covered in snow! This sensory garden is located right next to… Read more
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Meridian Centre Park
Location: Brighton, NY This lovely park is tucked behind some office buildings 12 minutes south of Rochester, NY. This park contains meadows, wetlands, and forest areas. There is a nice playground near the parking area with a few paths to take. The paved paths around the park are stroller friendly and accessible. When the trail… Read more
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Montezuma Heritage Park
Location: Montezuma, NY This beautiful and historic park is located one hour east of Rochester, NY. I walked the 0.4 mile wide, grass Aqueduct Trail (trail 2 on the map) to the historical aqueduct ruins. I then made a loop by walking back along the Seneca River Barge Canal Trail (trail 10) and Lock 62… Read more
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Northampton Park – Victory Fairy Trail at Springdale Farm
Location: Spencerport, NY This short fairy house trail is located at Springdale Farm 20 minutes west of Rochester, NY. To reach the fairy trail, follow the 0.2 mile paved path with a slight incline through the farm and toward the woods. There are some beautiful apple trees and a lovely pond with a nice deck… Read more
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Oatka Creek Park – Bluebird Trail
Location: Scottsville (Wheatland), NY Oatka Creek Park is located 30 minutes south west of Rochester, NY. The Bluebird Trail follows the blue trail markers and connects the green/black trails and the white trail. The Bluebird Trail has some grass, bumps, and hills and I would not consider it stroller friendly. The trail goes through some… Read more
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Onanda Park – Uplands Trail
Location: Canandaigua, NY This park is located 45 minutes south of Rochester, NY. The trail started out as wood chips with a bit of an incline. There is a small lookout point about a quarter mile into the hike with two Adirondack chairs where you can see bits of Canandaigua Lake in the distance and… Read more
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Onondaga Lake Park – Butterfly Garden of Hope
Location: Liverpool, NY This park is located just over an hour east of Rochester, NY on the shore of Onondaga Lake near Syracuse. The Onondaga Lake Park – Butterfly Garden of Hope is located on the northeast shore of the lake. According to the official website, “The Butterfly Garden of HOPE is a memorial to… Read more
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Onondaga Lake Park – East Shore Recreation Trail and Shoreline Walking Trail
Location: Liverpool, NY This park is located just over an hour east of Rochester, NY on the shore of Onondaga Lake near Syracuse. There are two main trails on the east shore of the lake. The following are from the official website. East Shore Recreation Trail Shoreline Walking Trail Trail Map: Trail Map AllTrails: Shoreline Walking… Read more
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Onondaga Lake Park – West Shore Trail
Location: Liverpool, NY This park is located just over an hour east of Rochester, NY on the shore of Onondaga Lake near Syracuse. The West Shore Trail is a paved path along the western shore of the lake. The trail is 4.5 miles of woodlands and open areas and goes through the Empower FCU Amphitheater. … Read more
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Onondaga Lake Park – Willow Bay
Location: Liverpool, NY This park is located just over an hour east of Rochester, NY on the shore of Onondaga Lake near Syracuse. The Willow Bay area of the park is located at the northwest end of the lake. From Willow Bay you can walk or bike on the East Shore Recreation Trail which connects… Read more
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Pal-Mac Aqueduct Park
Location: Palmyra, NY This park is located 30 minutes east of Rochester, NY. This small park has historic remnants of the Erie Canal, including the 1857 Mud Creek Aqueduct, the 1858 Aldrich Change Bridge (the oldest iron bridge in New York), and a unique spillway waterfall. There are picnic areas, restrooms, and access to the… Read more
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Panama Rocks Scenic Park
Location: Panama, NY This park is located in Chautauqua County – 2.5 hours southwest of Rochester, NY and 1.5 hours south of Buffalo. This is a beautiful natural area filled with huge rock formations, some as tall as 60 feet, surrounded by forest. The rocks were formed over 300 million years ago and there are… Read more
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Panorama Valley Park – Irondequoit Creek Panorama Plaza Trail
Location: Penfield, NY Panorama Valley Park is located 10 minutes east of Rochester, NY. This little park is located behind Panorama Plaza. There is a small grassy area with a covered picnic table. This is one end of the Irondequoit Creek Panorama Plaza Trail. The trail continues 1 mile along Irondequoit Creek to Channing Philbrick… Read more
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Parma Town Park
Location: Hilton, NY This park is located 20 minutes west of Rochester, NY. There many amenities in this park, listed below. In addition there is a beautiful area with a nature trail. I did not complete the entire hike because much of the trail was closed due to a cross country meet. The website says… Read more
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Perinton Park
Location: Perinton, NY This lovely park is located on the Erie Canal 15 minutes east of Rochester, NY. We parked in the large lot near the multi age playground and skate park. We then walked along the paved path to the canal and walked on the Canalway trail. This park also features fishing spots, a… Read more
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Pont de Rennes
Location: Rochester, NY I visited this scenic bridge located in Rochester, NY on a beautiful snowy day. This pedestrian bridge spans 858 feet and is 114 feet above the Genesee River. Along the bridge are beautiful views of High Falls and the Genesee River as well as iconic buildings of Rochester, the Genesee Brew House,… Read more
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Powder Mills Park – Daffodil Meadow
Location: Pittsford, NY This beautiful meadow of daffodils is located 15 minutes southeast of Rochester, NY in Powder Mills Park. There are two ways to reach the Daffodil Meadow. Trail Map: Trail Map; Satellite Map AllTrails: Daffodil Trail Official Website: Monroe County Parks Other Websites: Day Trips Around Rochester Read more
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Powder Mills Park – Fish Hatchery
Location: Pittsford, NY The fish hatchery is located 15 minutes southeast of Rochester, NY. This is a nice spot to walk around to see the fish, feed them, or just enjoy the park. There are machines to buy fish food for a quarter. Be sure to read all of the signs and follow directions. There… Read more
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Powers Farm Market – Nativity Trail
Location: Pittsford, NY We love visiting Powers Farm Market in every season! In the winter, there are Christmas trees for sale, an outdoor firepit, a festively decorated door, and a Nativity Trail. This short little path through the farm features animals, nativity scenes, and is lined by lights. This trail is also open after dark,… Read more
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Pratt’s Falls County Park
Location: Pompey, NY This beautiful park features a waterfall and pond and is located near Syracuse, roughly 2 hours east of Rochester, NY. This park features a 137 foot waterfall and is the site of Onondaga County’s first mill operation in 1796. We wandered around the beautiful ponds, checked out the accessible viewpoint over the… Read more
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Red Jacket Park
Location: Penn Yan, NY This park is located 1 hour southeast of Rochester, NY on the shore of Keuka Lake. There is swimming access, a playground, benches, and picnic tables. There are no trails but you can walk along the shore on the grass. It’s a great sunset spot! Leashed dogs are allowed. Official Website:… Read more
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Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve – Boardwalk
Location: Depew, NY This wonderful nature preserve is located a little over an hour west of Rochester, NY. Brick paths lead to a network of trails and a woodchip path to a natural log play area. There is a short (less than 0.1 mile), accessible boardwalk trail that starts near the main entrance. The end… Read more
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Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve – Lily Pond Loop
Location: Depew, NY This wonderful nature preserve is located a little over an hour west of Rochester, NY. Brick paths lead to a network of trails and a woodchip path to a natural log play area. This 0.3 mile flat path over crushed stone and mowed grass circles Lily Pond. The trail has views of… Read more
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Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve – Play Area
Location: Depew, NY This wonderful nature preserve is located a little over an hour west of Rochester, NY. Brick paths lead to a network of trails and a woodchip path to a natural log play area. The play area had some benches, a tiny wood bridge, logs, stumps, and fire pit. The nature preserve entrance… Read more
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Richard P. Outhouse Memorial Park
Location: Canandaigua, NY This small park is located 30 minutes southeast of Rochester, NY. This basic park has a 0.75 flat paved perimeter path with several benches and very little shade. There is a small fitness station, a pirate theme playground, several pavilions, and public restrooms. The path is stroller friendly. Leashed dogs are allowed.… Read more
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RMSC Cumming Nature Center – Beaver Trail
Location: Naples, NY RMSC Cumming Nature Center is located an hour south of Rochester, NY. The Beaver Trail is a 1.5 mile loop trail starts with a walk through the picturesque red pine stand. The trail follows a creek and passes through marsh and meadow habitats and leads to a 35-acre beaver pond. The path through… Read more
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RMSC Cumming Nature Center – Natural Play Area
Location: Naples, NY RMSC Cumming Nature Center is located an hour south of Rochester, NY. Near the visitor center is a natural play area. There is a wooden play house, stone frogs and turtles, and logs for climbing. This play area is located near the famous red pine stand and many other hiking trails. $$… Read more
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RMSC Cumming Nature Center – Visitor Center
ocation: Naples, NY RMSC Cumming Nature Center is located an hour south of Rochester, NY. The visitor center includes accessible restrooms, a multi-purpose space downstairs, permanent exhibits located in the main lobby, a nature play room full of hands-on, educational activities for kids, the Riedman Theater with a movie screen and seating for up to 100 people, and the… Read more
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Robert C. Corby Arboretum and Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: Pittsford, NY This beautiful arboretum is located 15 minutes east of Rochester, NY in Pittsford. We parked in one of the parking lots at the Old Pickle Factory and started on the Auburn Trail. We then made a left onto the Frog Pond Trail and then a quick left onto the Meadow Trail. We… Read more
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Root Glen
Location: Clinton, NY This nature area is located 2 hours east of Rochester, NY. Root Glen is a botanical garden and wooded trail system located on the Hamilton College campus. There are beautiful bridges over a creek, tree identification signs, benches, evergreen trees, spring ephemerals, and some sculptures. The path is crushed red stone with… Read more
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Royalton Ravine Park
Location: Gasport, NY This beautiful park is located 1 hour west of Rochester, NY. The park starts with a pavilions, restrooms, grassy fields, and a beautiful pond. There is an opening through the trees beyond the pond that leads to wooded trails. Along the trails are a suspension bridge, a wildflower meadow, a small waterfall… Read more
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Salmon Creek Nature Preserve
Location: Hilton, NY This Genesee Land Trust nature preserve is located 25 minutes northwest of Rochester, NY. This preserve opened in 2022 and is adjacent to the Braddock Bay Wildlife Management Area. The preserve is located along Salmon Creek and contains a small pond. There are wooden benches and an accessible observation deck. This is… Read more
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Sandbar Park
Location: Webster, NY This new little park is located just northeast of Rochester, NY along the shore of Lake Ontario. There is an accessible path along the water with beautiful views, especially at sunset. The path is quite short (about 0.2 miles or so) but there is also a sidewalk path along the road and… Read more
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Sandy Bottom Park and Nature Trail
Location: Richmond, NY This park is located 40 minutes south of Rochester, NY at the north end of Honeoye Lake. There is a beautiful view of the lake and surrounding hills with benches and picnic tables, two playgrounds, swimming beach, boat launch, fishing area, porta potty, and informational signs. Be sure to look for signs… Read more
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Saunders Finger Lakes Museum – StoryWalk
Location: Branchport, NY The Saunders Finger Lakes Museum is located 1 hour southeast of Rochester, NY. There are nature trails, a kayak launch, StoryWalk, and a natural playscape. Other exhibits are currently under construction. At the Creekside Center, there is a StoryWalk trail. It begins near the Natural Playscape and goes along the creek, passing… Read more
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Saunders Finger Lakes Museum – Townsend-Grady Wildlife Preserve
Location: Branchport, NY The Saunders Finger Lakes Museum is located 1 hour southeast of Rochester, NY. There are nature trails, a kayak launch, StoryWalk, and a natural playscape. Other exhibits are currently under construction. Across the road from the Creekside Center is the Townsend-Grady Wildlife Preserve. The Sugar Creek Trail goes from a grassy parking… Read more
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Schoen Place
Location: Pittsford, NY This Erie Canalside spot is located 15 minutes east of Rochester, NY. There are old warehouses that have been turned into shops and restaurants. You can walk the Erie Canalway Trail (bikes must be walked in this area), take a boat ride, or enjoy a meal. There is an informational sign and… Read more
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Seneca Park – Trout Lake
Location: Rochester, NY Trout Lake is located right in the city of Rochester, NY in Seneca Park. There is parking at the several shelters around the lake or alongside the lake. A paved path circles the lake (about a half mile around the lake) with benches and lots of waterfowl (with signs saying NOT to… Read more
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Seneca Park – Zoo Falls
Location: Rochester, NY This waterfall is located right in the city of Rochester, NY in Seneca Park. I hiked this trail on October 30th. We parked at the Wegman Lodge and started walking the paved road behind the parking lot. We then turned left into the woods when we saw an orange trail marker on… Read more
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Shadow Pines
Location: Penfield, NY This former golf course is now a hiking and walking area as well as located 10 minutes east of Rochester, NY. There are a few different areas of this large park. The map below shows the different sections (the STAR is the parking for the recreation/playground area, the SQUARE is the parking… Read more
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Sherburne Park Nature Trail
Location: Walworth, NY This park with a nature trail is located 25 minutes east of Rochester, NY. There is an easy and flat 1 mile nature trail around the perimeter of the park. When we visited in March, the road all the way to the playground and dog park was closed with a gate so… Read more
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Sherwood Fields Park
Location: Penfield, NY This park is located 20 minutes east of Rochester, NY. This park features meadows, forested and shrub wetlands, and streams. According to the official website, “the primary trails are accessible, made of crushed stone and re-purposed millings from Monroe County and town road projects.” The large outer loop is 1.4 miles, but… Read more
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Sibleyville Nature Reserve
Location: Mendon / Honeoye Falls, NY This nature reserve is located 30 minutes south of Rochester, NY. There are meadows and wildflowers, beautiful wooded areas, creek access, and a prominent drumlin with wonderful views over the area. There is a trailhead at the end of Gravel Ln (it’s a large cul-de-sac) and a gravel parking… Read more
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Spencerport Nature Center
Location: Spencerport, NY NOTE: This nature area is located on school grounds and its availability to the public is shown below. Check the official website for any updates or changes. Public Hours of Operation: This nature area is located 20 minutes west of Rochester, NY. Parking for the Spencerport Nature Center is located in the… Read more
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Spring Lake Trail
Location: Perinton, NY This trail is located 15 minutes east of Rochester, NY. We parked in the parking lot of Spring Lake Park and played on the playground for a bit. It’s not a very new playground and is designed for 5-12 year olds. We then walked to the Spring Lake Trail which did require… Read more
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State Road Nature Preserve
Location: Webster, NY This nature preserve is located 20 minutes east of Rochester, NY. This 84-acre preserve was created in 2019. The area consists of second growth forest, wetlands, meadows, ponds, and Four Mile Creek. We parked in the lot off of State Road and hikes the 1.1 mile Red Trail loop. It started in… Read more
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Sterling Nature Center – Forest Ecology Trail
ocation: Sterling, NY This nature park is located 1.25 hours east of Rochester, NY along the shore of Lake Ontario. According to the official website, the Forest Ecology Trail is a 0.6 mile loop that “circles through several contrasting forest types including a conifer plantation, northern hardwood sugar maple, and a beech-hemlock lowland forest on… Read more
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Sterling Nature Center – Lake Trail
Location: Sterling, NY This nature park is located 1.25 hours east of Rochester, NY along the shore of Lake Ontario. The Lake Trail provides access to the 1.9 miles of Lake Ontario shoreline that are part of the Sterling Nature Center. We hiked down to the shoreline from each of the two ends of this… Read more
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Sterling Nature Center – Lakeview Trail
Location: Sterling, NY This nature park is located 1.25 hours east of Rochester, NY along the shore of Lake Ontario. The Lakeview Trail is a short, accessible stone dust path that leads from the interpretive center down to an observation deck looking out over Lake Ontario. There is also a wildflower meadow with benches. The… Read more
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Stewart Park
Location: Ithaca, NY This park is located in Ithaca along the shore of Cayuga Lake, 1 hour 45 minutes southeast of Rochester, NY. This beautiful park has so much to offer. This park includes a section of the paved Cayuga Waterfront Trail with beautiful views of the lake and many benches. This path connects to… Read more
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Stony Brook State Park – Gorge Trail
Location: Dansville, NY This beautiful trail is located in a state park located one hour south of Rochester, NY. It features beautiful creek views and waterfalls. There are benches, a designated swimming area, campground, beautiful bridges, clean restrooms, and more! The Gorge Trail does have many stairs and is therefore not stroller friendly. We hiked… Read more
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Taughannock Falls State Park – Lakefront Area
Location: Trumansburg, NY NOTE: Deer hunting (bow only) is permitted in this park in season. Take precautions. This beautiful state park in the Finger Lakes is located 1.5 hour southeast of Rochester, NY along Cayuga Lake near Ithaca. Across the road from the waterfall trails is the lakefront area. This is not a hiking trail,… Read more
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Thomas Creek Wetland Walk
Location: Fairport, NY This is a really lovely wetland walk located in the village of Fairport located 20 minutes east of Rochester. We parked in the small gravel lot at the end of Liftbridge Lane. First we visited the interactive sundial, where you stand on a brick with the current month, put your arms above… Read more
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Thousand Acre Swamp
Location: Penfield, NY This trail is located 15 minutes east of Rochester, NY. We hiked along the 0.4 mile main trail (Founders Way) and also checked out the 0.2 mile Boardwalk Loop. The boardwalks through marshlands were absolutely beautiful with some benches to stop and enjoy the scenery and wildlife. The trails continue to Way… Read more
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Tinker Nature Park – Demonstration Gardens
Location: Henrietta, NY This cute little garden is right near the main parking lot at Tinker Nature Park. According to the sign the garden has an alphabet garden, native perennial garden, vegetable garden, mini garden, hummingbird garden, flowering shrub garden, butterfly garden, and herb garden. Be sure to stay on the grass path and not… Read more
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Tinker Nature Park – Grounds
Location: Henrietta, NY This park is located 15 minutes south of Rochester, NY. If you park in the main parking lot, you can find some really nice spots. There are the Demonstration Gardens, beautiful wildflower meadows with benches and picnic tables, honeybee house, memorial labyrinth, Hansen Nature Center, and the Tinker Homestead and Farm Museum.… Read more
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Tinker Nature Park – Nature Trail
Location: Pittsford, NY This is a beautiful park located 15 minutes south of Rochester, NY. The Nature Trail is the inner loop, shown in the map below. The loop is 0.45 miles long with a mostly flat surface through beautiful woods. There are several benches along the trail and a short boardwalk section. There are… Read more
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Trail of Hope
Location: Lyons, NY This short, flat trail (about 0.5-0.75 miles) is located near the Lyons Community Center. The trail contains a LOT of wooden signs, art, and gardens. There’s a covered bridge, a yellow brick road, benches, artwork, picnic tables, a wooden ship, a butterfly garden, a deck overlooking the creek, and more! Official Facebook… Read more
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Trillium Nature Center – Arboretum
Location: North Java, NY This Buffalo Audubon Society nature center (formerly Beaver Meadows Nature Center) is located 1.25 hours southwest of Rochester, NY and 40 minutes from Buffalo. Down the road a bit from the interpretive center is an arboretum. There is a lean-to, picnic area, benches, fields, a small stream, and a variety of… Read more
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Trillium Nature Center – Beaver Pond Trail
Location: North Java, NY This Buffalo Audubon Society nature center (formerly Beaver Meadows Nature Center) is located 1.25 hours southwest of Rochester, NY and 40 minutes from Buffalo. The Beaver Pond Trail is located behind the interpretive center. It goes through the woods to the short of Beaver Pond where there are some wooden platforms… Read more
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Trillium Nature Center – Fox Trail & Hawk Watch
Location: North Java, NY This Buffalo Audubon Society nature center (formerly Beaver Meadows Nature Center) is located 1.25 hours southwest of Rochester, NY and 40 minutes from Buffalo. The Fox Trail starts in the Arboretum. The path is grassy and goes through a beautiful wildflower meadow and passes small groves of evergreen trees. Branching off… Read more
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Trillium Nature Center – Grounds
Location: North Java, NY This Buffalo Audubon Society nature center (formerly Beaver Meadows Nature Center) is located 1.25 hours southwest of Rochester, NY and 40 minutes from Buffalo. The outdoor areas outside of the interpretive center are really beautiful. There are wildflower meadows in late summer, informational signs, gardens with a small pond, and a… Read more
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Trillium Nature Center – Jenny Glen Boardwalk
Location: North Java, NY This Buffalo Audubon Society nature center (formerly Beaver Meadows Nature Center) is located 1.25 hours southwest of Rochester, NY and 40 minutes from Buffalo. A quarter mile down the road from the interpretive center is the Jenny Glen Boardwalk with its own parking area. This 0.3 mile accessible boardwalk makes a… Read more
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Trolley Trail
Location: Victor, NY We had a great time walking the Trolley Trail in Victor located 30 minutes southeast of Rochester, NY! The Trolley Trail is a 4-mile mostly flat rail bed. The part we walked had a stone dust surface and was stroller friendly. We parked near the Former Rochester & Eastern Rapid Railway Station.… Read more
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Twin Cedars Environmental Area
Location: Avon, NY This beautiful hiking area is located 25 minutes south of Rochester, NY. The property is owned by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). We hiked the ~1 mile trail clockwise around the pond. It started by an adorable red A-frame and then along a grassy path along the north… Read more
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Vitale Park
Location: Lakeville, NY This is a lovely lakeside park located 30 minutes south of Rochester. There are two parking lots: a gravel lot on the west side of the park and a larger paved lot near the playground on the east side. Vitale park has two paved loops that connect by the “Freedom Bridge”. My… Read more
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Vosburg Hollow Nature Trail
Location: Webster, NY This 0.4 mile out and back trail is located in Webster, NY – 15 minutes northeast of Rochester. This trail features stairs, a boardwalk, bridge, bench, creek views, and a small red pine stand. It also connects to the Hojack Trail. Trail Map: Trail Map; Satellite Map AllTrails: Vosburg Hollow Official Website: Friends… Read more
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Webster First Responders Park – Chiyoda Paved Loop
Location: Webster, NY This trail is located at First Responders Park 20 minutes east of Rochester, NY. According to the website: “The Chiyoda Trails are located at the Webster Recreation Center. They consist of a paved trail (one-mile loop) around the ball fields and the First Responders Memorial Playground, plus a packed-dirt trail through the… Read more
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Webster Park – Fishing Pier
Location: Webster, NY Webster Park is located 25 minutes northeast of Rochester, NY near the shore of Lake Ontario. At the northeast end of Webster Park is the fishing pier. There is a seasonal parking area that leads to a paved path over a bridge that goes along the shore to the pier. The path… Read more
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Webster Park – West Trail
Location: Webster, NY Webster Park is located 25 minutes northeast of Rochester, NY near the shore of Lake Ontario. This 1.6 mile loop trail had some hills and narrow sections and would likely NOT be stroller friendly. There was a beautiful evergreen tree grove to hike through on this trail and it looked lovely after… Read more
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Whiting Road Nature Preserve
Location: Webster, NY This nature preserve is located 20 minutes northeast of Rochester, NY. There is a whole network of trails in this park (described here). We decided to hike the 0.72 mile blue loop which was perfect for my young kids! The forest was beautiful and I can’t wait to explore more of this… Read more
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The Wild Center – Indoor Exhibits
Location: Tupper Lake, NY The Wild Center is located in the Adirondacks 4 hours northeast of Rochester, NY. The Wild Center features a Wild Walk in the treetops, Forest Music Trail, Greenleaf Pond, pollinator gardens, indoor exhibits, live animals, and more! Dogs are NOT allowed at the Wild Center except for service animals. Here are… Read more
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Zebulon Norton Trail
Location: Honeoye Falls, NY This trail is located 30 minutes south of Rochester, NY. This out-and-back trail is about 0.7 mile each way (1.4 miles roundtrip). There is a trailhead behind the playground at Harry Allen Park and another trailhead at Rotary Park. The trail is wooded and goes along Honeoye Creek. The trail crosses… Read more