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.
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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Debi
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.