Graduate Ambassador Blog Posts
Rochester's Hidden Gems: Scenic Trails You Need to Explore
One of the things I like to do on my rare days off from the lab is explore new trails in Rochester.
It feels weird to say, but there’s something magical about stepping away from the chaos of work, slipping into nature, and losing yourself in a fresh adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a newbie simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of work, Rochester offers a variety of trails that cater to every adventurer. Here are some of my favorite trails that I recommend you check out:
One of the first trails I hiked when I came to Rochester, Turning Point Park Trail is a moderately easy trail, about 5 miles long (from start to finish), and offers stunning views. What’s special about this trail is the boardwalk section that runs along the water, providing an amazing view of wildlife (fish, swans, ducks). The trail is well-marked, making it relatively easy to navigate. I recommend stopping by during golden hour to get the best view! There is free parking available onsite. Pro tip: wear plenty of sunscreen, since there isn't much shade along the trail.
Corbett’s Glen is another moderately easy trail, about 2 miles long, that gives you access to three waterfalls. Aside from a couple of steep downhill sections followed by uphill climbs, the trail is relatively easy to navigate. There is free parking available onsite. Pro tip: depending on the time of year you plan to visit, the trail may be muddy. I wouldn’t recommend visiting if it has recently snowed or rained, as the steep dip and rise near the beginning can become treacherous when covered in snow, ice, or muddy rocks.
Not even 10 minutes away from River Campus is one of my favorite trails here in Rochester: the Mount Hope Cemetery Trail. It’s about 2.5 miles long and wraps around the cemetery. What’s really unique about this trail is the direct access you have to the gravestones, where you can read and learn some fascinating history—making it a fantastic historical experience. It’s relatively easy to navigate, and there is free parking available onsite. Pro tip: I would recommend devoting extra time to this hike, as stopping to read the gravestones will take some additional time.
Park Trail - Channing Philbrick Park
Park Trail, located within Channing Philbrick Park, is an easy, 3-mile trail that runs along the stream the entire way. While there are some sections where you can see houses and power lines, the trail is overall very peaceful, with plenty of wildlife. Free parking is available onsite. Pro tip: There are several rocky and root-covered spots that can be slippery when damp, so I would recommend avoiding the trail if it rained earlier.
Watkins Glen State Park - many different trails
Watkins Glen State Park is about a 1.5-hour drive from River Campus, but it’s definitely worth the trip. The park is one of the most iconic places to visit in the Finger Lakes area, with over 15 waterfalls, tunnels, and views you won’t find in other parks. There are two main trails: the Gorge Trail and the Rim Trail. I would highly recommend the Gorge Trail over the Rim Trail, though both are great. Fair warning: there are over 800 steps on the Gorge Trail, and be prepared for your shoes to get wet when walking by the waterfalls. There’s also a secret waterfall located further west of the Gorge Trail, accessible only from the western end of the park. Parking costs $10. Pro tip: the park gets extremely crowded over the weekend, so definitely show up very, very early.
Letchworth State Park - many different trails
Letchworth State Park is about a 45-minute drive from River Campus and is definitely worth the trip. Like Watkins Glen, Letchworth also offers multiple trails. I would personally recommend the Lower Falls Trail and the Gorge Trail, which descend into the Genesee River Gorge. There are some steep sections, but overall, the trail is moderately challenging and stretches for about 3 miles. It’s super rewarding since you get up close to the Lower Falls (hence the name of one of the trails). If you’re looking for an easier trail, I’d recommend the Dam Overlook Trail. It’s short and easy, offering a great view of the Mount Morris Dam, a critical piece of flood control infrastructure on the Genesee River. Parking costs $10. Pro tip: Similar to Watkins Glen, Letchworth gets extremely crowded on weekends, so definitely show up very early to avoid the crowd.