Skaneateles Lake
Skaneateles Lake is approximately 75 minutes from Rochester, and it only takes an hour to drive all the way around the lake.
Freshwater
We are the stewards of our freshwater creeks and lakes and the groundwater below our feet. Water is life. Learn more about Rochester’s freshwater resources and show them some love.
Otisco Lake
Otisco Lake, the easternmost of the Finger Lakes, is a 90-minute drive from Rochester to reach Otisco Lake Park on the north end.
39 Other Great Lakes Near Rochester
Rochester is well-known for its 11 Finger Lakes and two beautiful Great Lakes. But there are even more freshwater lakes to enjoy.
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9 Lake Ontario Lighthouses in New York
These lighthouses along Lake Ontario in New York are within a two-hour drive of Rochester. And where there’s a light there’s a sweeping view!
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Our Favorite 5 State Parks to Explore
Within a 2-hour drive of Rochester, there are 49 NY State Parks all worthy of exploration, but try our favorite five if you haven’t already!
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Our Favorite 5 Town Parks to Explore
Among my top five favorite town parks are those with distinctive wooded areas, diverse wildlife, and captivating water features.
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Charles E. Sexton Memorial Park
The one-mile paved loop trail in North Ponds Park circumnavigates two ponds and is perfect for strolling, jogging, biking, and dog-walking.
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Exploring The Genesee River
At Genesee Valley Park, the river merges with the Erie Canal and continues north through Rochester before reaching Lake Ontario.
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5 Exceptional Waterfalls Near Rochester
The Greater Rochester region is home to numerous waterfalls. Here are my five favorites to help you start planning your next day trip.
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Grimes Glen in Naples
Grimes Glen is public, free, and you are encouraged to wade up the creek to the first and second waterfalls, both 60-foot cascades.
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Freshwater Creeks Around Rochester
These beautiful creeks around Rochester impact us in such subtle ways they sometimes disappear into the background of our lives.
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Chimney Bluffs State Park
The bluffs in Chimney Bluffs State Park are fragile drumlins, like all of the truncated drumlins along this section of shoreline.
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Water Trails: Over 50 Places to Explore Rochester’s Waterways
Paddle your way to peace and quiet along Rochester’s water trails. Use these launches for canoes, kayaks, and small motorized watercraft.
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Easy-to-See Waterfalls Near Rochester
Not all waterfalls are hidden in dark ravines. Many of the region’s most stunning waterfalls can be viewed from the road or a short walk.
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Swimming Holes
On a hot day, you can stand under a waterfall, swim in a lake, or wade through a creek at one of these refreshing natural swimming holes