Most people think of Braddock Bay Wildlife Management Area (WMA) as just the bay itself, easily accessed through Braddock Bay Park or Westpoint Marina.
It actually includes much of the wetland and flight-path surrounding it as well.
If you’re cruising on Edgemere Drive along the ponds or on the parkway between Island Cottage and Bennett Road, eating at Braddock Bay Tavern & Grill, or fishing Salmon Creek, you’re enjoying the Braddock Bay WMA.
The Braddock Bay Complex
If you’re planning a few walks around the area, pick up a “Hit the Trail Passport” at a Wegmans in Greece, the Greece Town Hall or just view the PDF. Many of the trails mentioned below are in the booklet. Handy!
Braddock Bay Park
The park is maintained by the Town of Greece in partnership with the DEC. There are several trails through the park along with a viewing platform and boardwalk.
It’s a great spot to start your walk along the 3-mile (one-way) Cranberry Pond Nature Trail.
As the sign above informs, “One of the largest springtime concentrations of migrating birds of prey occurs in the skies above Braddock Bay. During the months of February through June, upwards of 140,000 hawks, eagles, falcons, and vultures can be observed working their way to their breeding grounds in Canada. Each Spring this migration is monitored, as it is a vital barometer of the Environment.”
Marina Trail
The Braddock Bay Marina Trail is my favorite trail in Monroe County.
Strong words, I know, but I measure “favorite” based on places I’m drawn back to time and again.
I rarely see many people on this path. Most of the time there will be duck hunters, wildlife photographers, or families educating their children about conservation or types of birds they observe. It’s quite different than your typical park or woodland trail.
It’s roughly one mile out and back.
Surround Areas
Buttonwood Creek, North Greece Road
Kaiser-Manitou Beach Banding Station
According to the New York State Department of Conservation, “The area is a shallow water bay-marsh complex existing in five units along the Lake Ontario shoreline, ranging from two to six miles west of Rochester.”
Explore The Lake Ontario Seaway Trail
The Lake Ontario Seaway Trail runs along the southern Lake Ontario shoreline, from Fort Niagara in Youngstown to Fort Ontario in Oswego.
22 Fabulous Fall Hikes in Monroe County
Our favorite fall hikes offer a variety of elements and views. The presence of water, trees, and solitude helps rank these high on our list.
10 Spots to Seek Solitude Around Rochester
It’s critical to spend time outside. Here are a few spots where I find ample space for solitude and solace in nature.
Water Trails: 58 Places to Explore Rochester’s Waterways
Paddle your way to peace and quiet along Rochester’s water trails. Use these launches for canoes, kayaks, and small motorized watercraft.
36 Places to Immerse Yourself in Green
I find the color green soothing, especially when surrounded by it. Enjoy some of my favorite places to go green!
Nature Centers and Preserves Around Rochester
The various nature centers, preserves, and management areas all work to protect and maintain natural spaces for the benefit of all.
Where is your favorite spot?
Your insights and experiences are valuable. Please share them in the comments.
