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The Jump-Off Trail viewing platform

The Jump-Off Overlook


Perched on Gannett Hill in Ontario County Park, the Jump-Off offers one of the most breathtaking views in the Finger Lakes region. This accessible path makes it possible for everyone to enjoy a woodland walk to a platform overlooking a magnificent panoramic view of the Bristol Hills. The trail is not named “The Jump-Off Trail,” though many refer to it as such.

The Trail

Approaching the landing
Jump Off Trail sign
ADA

The trail itself is just a small part of a vast network of footpaths known as The Finger Lakes Trail. This section is a part of the Bristol Hills Branch Trail in the Western Finger Lakes Region.

View Map

The Jump-Off Overlook

Ontario County Park Gannett Hill Jump Off Trail ramp to platform
Jump-Off in July

The Jump-Off overlook is breathtaking year-round, but my favorite time to visit is in autumn, during the near-peak and peak leaf-changing season. From there, you can enjoy a stunning view of CR-33/West Hollow Road and the backside of Bristol Mountain.

Ontario County Park Gannett Hill Jump Off Trail view
Jump-Off in July

There’s not much to say about the area. It’s easy to navigate, and the view speaks for itself. The beauty is in the simplicity.

Ontario County Park Gannett Hill Jump Off Trail viewing platform
Jump-Off in early October
Ontario County Park Gannett Hill Jump Off Trail summer view
Jump-Off in July
Ontario County Park Gannett Hill Jump Off Trail view from platform
Early October
Jump Off Trail Jeffrey Packard
Photo by Jeffrey Packard
Jump Off Trail Jeffrey Packard
Photo by Jeffrey Packard
Jump Off Trail Jeffrey Packard
Photo by Jeffrey Packard
Jump Off Trail September
Jump-Off in September

More information about the Jump Off Trail

Ontario County Park also has camping facilities (tents, RVs, cabins), two softball diamonds, two playgrounds, a basketball court, acres of open field (great for flying kites!), and a fishing pond.

Cost: Free

Located in Naples, roughly 52 minutes / 40 miles from Rochester (get directions)

More information: co.ontario.ny.us

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Have you visited the Jump Off overlook on Gannett Hill?

Your insights and experiences are valuable. Please share them in the comments.

Debi Bower, Day Trips Around Rochester NY

Debi Bower is the founder and creative director of daytrippingroc.com and author of the award-winning book Day Trips Around Rochester, New York.

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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.

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3 thoughts on “The Jump-Off Overlook”

    1. I don’t think that trail is known as The Jump Off. Is is an ADA trail to an overlook platform so folks in wheelchairs could enjoy a view otherwise obstructed by the stone wall below and the foliage that grows tall. It is in Ontario County Park and is not part of the Finger Lakes Trail. The FLT does run along the south edge of OCP and continues down to the road the overlook looks down on, though.
      The Jump Off is a hang glider jump off point across from Bristol Mountain Ski Area. It is permitted access to members of the local hang glider club.

      1. The “Jump Off” is technically the overlook, not the trail itself, but people refer to it as such. The trail that leads to the jump-off, or The Jump-Off Trail. Regarding the FLT, Go Fingerlakes’ website states, “The trail network actually extends beyond the park boundaries along the Bristol Hills Trail, a spur of the Finger Lakes Trail.” The Ontario County Parks map indicates that the Orage Finger Lakes Trail ends at Gannett Hill Park Drive, showing that the Jump Off is on the Finger Lakes Trail. https://www.ontariocountyny.gov/DocumentCenter/View/6002 But I’ll reevaluate the content to make sure that’s clear. Thank you, BB!

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