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MacKay Wildlife Preserve

MacKay Wildlife Preserve

Visitors can explore a landscape filled with round, moss-covered boulders, a diverse array of hardwood trees, and intriguing land formations. The preserve is bordered by Spring Street to the east, with a fieldstone wall marking the western edge. To the south, there is an active train track, while the northern boundary is defined by the old Lehigh Valley line, which is still used daily for transporting rail cars.

30 Day Trips within 30 Minutes of Rochester: MacKay Wildlife Preserve
MacKay Wildlife Preserve
MacKay Wildlife Preserve
MacKay Wildlife Preserve
MacKay Wildlife Preserve
MacKay Wildlife Preserve

The preserve encompasses 26 acres that are home to some extraordinary rocks. Geologists have studied them and determined that some of these rocks are as old as 380 million years. These rocks contain fossils from the time when our seas were tropical. Science teachers from Cal-Mum take their classes here to learn about the area’s geology and biodiversity.

MacKay Wildlife Preserve signage

A peaceful retreat and educational experience

As you explore the nature trail, you’ll come across signs that tell the stories of the trees, features, and formations surrounding you.

MacKay Wildlife Preserve

Quiet places to sit and observe

Throughout MacKay Wildlife Preserve, benches perfectly placed by the park’s designer add to the charm of the park. These benches have a history of their own.

MacKay Wildlife Preserve
MacKay Wildlife Preserve
MacKay Wildlife Preserve

The trails are defined yet rustic.

We never felt lost, but the trails felt natural, like those used by deer in search of food and water.

MacKay Wildlife Preserve Map
MacKay Wildlife Preserve
MacKay Wildlife Preserve rock wall

A well-defined border

The property is situated between Spring Street on the east and a fieldstone wall on the west. The southern limit is an operational rail line that transports goods to Jones Chemical (formerly known as the NYC Peanut Line), while the northern boundary is the Lehigh Valley Line, which is cut just to the west of Spring Street. The tracks are active and used daily for transporting rail cars.

MacKay Wildlife Preserve Caledonia NY
MacKay Wildlife Preserve Caledonia NY
MacKay Wildlife Preserve Caledonia NY
MacKay Wildlife Preserve Caledonia NY
MacKay Wildlife Preserve Caledonia NY
MacKay Wildlife Preserve Caledonia NY

Winter in MacKay Wildlife Preserve

The preserve is ideal for a peaceful winter stroll, where the only sound you’ll hear is the crunch of snow beneath your feet.

MacKay Wildlife Preserve

More information about MacKay Wildlife Preserve

Cost: Free

Located in Caledonia, 30 minutes / 25 miles from Rochester (get directions)

More information: Read the story about the park as told by Barry Ganzhorn, the Caledonia resident who spearheaded efforts to save the 26-acre pristine woods and wetlands from being logged. This is a true passion project we have all benefited from. His story is one of community, family, personal hardship, and finding our identity.

Explore More

Geologic History of the Rochester Area

These day trips into Rochester’s geologic history will remind you just how amazing our corner of the Earth is.

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Nature Centers and Preserves Around Rochester

The various nature centers, preserves, and management areas all work to protect and maintain natural spaces for the benefit of all.

Read 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.

Read more

What is your favorite time of year to visit MacKay Wildlife Preserve in Caledonia?


I’d love to hear from you—please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

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 if I get free access to the places I visit. The answer is no—unless I’m invited to a special preview or offered behind-the-scenes access through my media role. Most of the time, I don’t even mention Day Trips Around Rochester, New York when I visit a place. I want to have the same experience you would.

I create and share this content because it brings me joy—and I hope it adds value to your adventures, too.

If my work has helped you explore and appreciate the Rochester area, please consider becoming a paid subscriber on Substack. You’ll receive an email whenever I publish new content and have the chance to connect with a growing community of local explorers.

Thank you for supporting my efforts to keep producing meaningful and helpful content.

Thank you!
Debi

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7 thoughts on “MacKay Wildlife Preserve”

  1. Hello Debi I wanted to add a little insight to your wonderful writing of Mackay park. I have been through this park and love it dearly and I also work for a company that moves rail cars on the northern boundary line or old Lehigh valley line. I think people need to be aware of the dangers near these tracks and the fact that they are functioning on a daily basis. We have had an influx of people even crossing the tracks and running up the lane on the left side. Kind regard’s—Corey

    1. Thank you, Corey, for calling my attention to the fact that the tracks are activley used! I’ve updated the article and appreciate your taking time to let me know.

  2. I just stumbled upon this place yesterday. It was late afternoon and I was on my way to the art gallery, so I have added this to my future agenda. Thank you for the article & photos

  3. I.am going there on thursday
    To take.photos. and to get in touch
    With the Earth…….
    Preserve Wildlife..Save a Beaver
    Eat a Tree.

  4. Barry A Ganzhorn Sr

    Best time is the end of April 1st of May—-or end of Sept-winter–these times are usually bug-free–take spray for the mosquitos

    1. I completely agree, Barry. I am a cool-weather-hike-in-the-woods kind of person. I made the mistake on a hot July afternoon going to Thousand Acre Swamp. As soon as we stepped out of the vehicle there were deer flies everywhere and we ran back to safety! I absolutely love late-fall and winter hikes.

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