High above Honeoye Lake, Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area offers some of the most stunning views in the Finger Lakes. Whether you’re looking for hiking trails, winter sports, or just a quiet place to take in the scenic beauty, this park is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
I would argue that Harriet Hollister and The Jump Off at Ontario County Park are the two most beautiful, must-visit places in Autumn when the trees are at their peak of change.
One thing to keep in mind: the road is pretty rocky and pitted in places. It is a beautiful yet very bumpy drive, and it is oh-so worth it!
There are 16 miles of hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing trails, including the Overlook Trail.
More Information About Harriet Hollister Spencer
The area was created after 680 acres of land were given to the state from the estate of Harriet Hollister Spencer, a horticulturalist, rose expert, and civic leader, after her death in 1962. Her final resting place is in Mount Hope Cemetery, along with that of her twin sister, Elizabeth Hollister Frost. Years later, more land was annexed, increasing the recreation area’s current size to 1,550 acres.
Harriet Hollister Spencer, a rose expert and civic leader, was born in 1887. According to the University of Rochester, her accomplishments include designing the “Garden of Fragrance” at the Rochester Museum and Science Center, receiving the Garden Club of America Rose Medal Award in 1959, and initiating the acquisition of the Ellwanger and Barry Arboretum by the University of Rochester in 1963. She was also a charter member of the Rochester Garden Club and the Landmark Society of Western New York. Her family gave 679 acres of land above Honeoye Lake to New York State, now called the Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area.
Cost: Free
Located in Springwater, roughly 55 minutes / 40 miles from Rochester (get directions)
More information: nysparks.com
Explore More
80+ Hiking Trails Around Rochester
Less traveled than in our parks, these hiking trails around Rochester offer a secluded and rustic area to immerse yourself in nature.
50 New York State Parks Within a Two-Hour Drive of Rochester
Venture into one of these New York State Parks within a two-hour drive of Rochester and discover what makes them unique.
🍁 Fall Foliage: 7 Breathtaking Views Near Rochester
If you’re looking for picturesque autumn scenery, these locations offer stunning fall foliage and unique landscapes.
Explore New York’s Finger Lakes Region
The Finger Lakes region is a popular tourist destination, featuring 11 lakes, charming cities and villages, and scenic farmland.
When is your favorite time of year to visit Harriet Hollister?
Your insights and experiences are valuable. Please share them in the comments.
People often ask me if I get free access to places while exploring. The answer is no unless I’m invited to previews or granted behind-the-scenes access as part of my media role. Generally, I don’t mention my project, Day Trips Around Rochester, NY, because I want the same experience you would have. I create and share content simply because it brings me joy. I would appreciate your support—a cup of coffee or two to help fuel future field trips—if you have found valuable information here that has helped you explore the Rochester area.
Enjoy the Journey Together!
Hollister Spencer was my Great Grandmother. I have fond memories of my father, Eliott Frost Spencer, grandson of Herriet Hollister Spencer bringing our family every few years to enjoy the treasure in which his grandmother donated. Now as an adult, often, I too bring my own children to enjoy the beauty of what was so generously donated by my Great Grandmother.
Sincerely, Kathleen E. Muto (Spencer)
Thank you for sharing this memory and history with us, Kathleen! I have visited her gravesite in Mount Hope Cemetery, and the garden at RMSC.