The 2025 Erie Canal Bicentennial presents a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience the canal that transformed America and to commemorate its influence on New York and the nation. This will be a year full of incredible celebrations, thought-provoking presentations, musical performances, and momentous journeys.
Learn more: Erie Canal National Heritage Corridor
This nature trail is perfect for observing Thomas Creek’s flow toward Irondequoit Creek. The wetland offers two paths—gravel and a boardwalk—leading to a seasonal viewing platform and connecting with the Erie Canalway Trail.
At the beginning of the path, interact with an analemmatic sundial, constructed with stones from Newark’s 1849 Enlarged Erie Canal Lock 58, by observing your shadow’s position. The plaque reads, “Stand on the current month, press your palms together and raise them high in the air. Note where your shadow crosses the hour markers: standard time above, daylight saving below.” The sundial was designed and built by local artist Vanessa Sheldon, who used stones from nearby Lock 58.
Boardwalk
I discovered Thomas Creek Wetland Walk when looking at a satellite view of the area on Google Maps. You’ll find a small parking lot at the end of Liftbridge Lane East. You can also park in municipal lots around the canal, tying this short trail into a more extensive canal experience.
Seasonal Viewing Platform
As implied, the platform, connected to the boardwalk portion of the trail, is closed during the colder months.
Wetland
Thomas Creek flows quietly through Perinton on its way to Irondequoit Creek near East Rochester. The wetland walk is a perfect spot to observe nature quietly.
More information about Thomas Creek Wetlands Walk
Cost: Free
Located in Fairport, 25 minutes / 15 miles from Rochester (get directions)
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Have you explored Thomas Creek Wetland Walk?
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!
What do the rocks with numbers mean and the months
That’s a sundial. There is an engraved stone with directions on how to use it.