Explore 45 acres owned and operated by the West Irondequoit Central School District as an outdoor classroom. Find one-and-a-half miles of combined dirt, wood chip, boardwalk, and gravel trails, with many spots covered in tree roots through the valley floor. The terrain is hilly and tree-covered, making Helmer an excellent place for peaceful woodland exploration.
As a child in West Irondequoit, I spent several summers at Helmer Nature Center. Nature Camp offered both fun and education, along with a requirement for hard work: spreading fresh wood chips on the trails.
Campers learned to become stewards of the land. I was introduced to water striders and penny cleaners, first heard the sound of bullfrogs, tasted maple syrup, and learned how to master Capture the Flag and classic campfire songs.
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The Trail
Sloped portions take you down to the valley floor, where the terrain around you is hilly and tree-covered, making it peacefully quiet. In the winter, you can rent snowshoes to help you enjoy the trails year-round.
More information about Helmer Nature Center
Cost: Free
Located in Irondequoit (get directions)
More information: facebook.com/HelmerNatureCenter + trail map
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Have you visited Helmer Nature Center?
I’d love to hear from you—please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
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Enjoy the Journey Together!
I’ve been to Helmer many times. It’s gorgeous year round but I especially love the fall. When my boys were younger we held scouting events there and a couple of our older scouts actually did their Eagle projects at Helmer to keep it beautiful. It’s a hidden gem.
Karen, I’m so grateful for Eagle projects! Helmer is one of my favorite places in Monroe County, and a wonderful place to spend a few hours in the woods.