The 2025 Erie Canal Bicentennial presents a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience the canal that transformed America and to commemorate its influence on New York and the nation. This will be a year full of incredible celebrations, thought-provoking presentations, musical performances, and momentous journeys.
Learn more: Erie Canal National Heritage Corridor
Greece Canal Park is one of two Monroe County Parks connected to the Erie Canal and one of three with off-leash dog parks. Two small fishing ponds flank the road leading to the canal.
There are also camping opportunities for youth groups and scouts by reservation. The park is a short walk down the canal trail from Henpeck Park, a popular parking spot to kick off an Erie Canal bike or hike.
Greece Canal Park encompasses 577 acres, with 4 easy walking trails varying in length under 1.5 miles over level or gently rolling terrain. If you’re looking to combine the trails into a longer hike, checkout this 5-mile “map-my-walk” posted by a Rochester-area hiking group.
Deer Run
This is an easy 1.4-mile walk over gently rolling terrain. Along the southern edge of the trail, a beautiful pond surrounded by cattail plants is an observation point and highlight.
Canal Trail
This is an easy 0.9-mile walk over gently rolling terrain. This part of the trail is especially pretty in early summer when the locust trees that line the canal banks are in full bloom.
West Trail
This trail is an easy 0.4-mile walk over level terrain. It is under a canopy of maple, beech, oak, black cherry, hickory, and tulip trees. It is especially interesting in the fall when sunlight filtering through the trees illuminates the wildflowers and fungus on the forest floor.
Farm Artifact Trail
This trail is a 0.9-mile walk over generally level terrain, showcasing a significant part of the area’s human history. An observation point along the trail features remnants of old rock walls and farm implements, providing insight into the region’s former agricultural heritage.
More information about Greece Canal Park
Cost: Free
Located in Greece, 18 minutes / 9 miles from Rochester (get directions)
More Information: Trail Map | monroecounty.gov
Explore More
Monroe County parks are free and offer 12,000 acres of natural, zoological, horticultural, historical, and geological experiences.
Explore the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor
Enjoy each canal town along the 115-mile stretch between the Cayuga-Seneca Canal and the Niagara River, with Rochester at the heart.
Paddle, Pedal, and Trek Along Rochester’s Waterways
With parks, preserved wetlands, historic neighborhoods, and miles of trails, Rochester has no shortage of adventures for outdoor enthusiasts.
Unlock the Wonder: 12 Ways to Fully Experience the Erie Canal
Experience the beauty, history, and community of the Erie Canal through activities that offer a unique perspective of life along the canal.
Paved, Boardwalk, and Gravel Pathways for Easy Strolls
These paved pathways and boardwalks are ideal for folks using strollers, walkers, wheelchairs, or managing other mobility challenges.
Where is your favorite spot in Greece Canal Park?
I’d love to hear from you—please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
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