Walking Trails Near RIT

One of my favorite things to do on the weekends is to go hiking. Luckily, Rochester has plenty to offer in terms of outdoor activities and trails. Hiking is the perfect activity to de-stress from a busy week or a great way to get out and enjoy being in nature. In this list, I will break down some of the options for your next hike near RIT, and even showcase some of the trails right here on campus!

Abraham Lincoln Park

About 20 minutes north of campus is the White Trail at Abraham Lincoln Park. This trail is a 2.6-mile out-and-back trail near Penfield, New York. The trail will take approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete, depending on the conditions. It’s a very popular area for birdwatching, so be sure to pack your binoculars! You can also use this trail for cross-country skiing in the winter. The trail is well known, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit at any time. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. Walking by the water can be pretty buggy, so be sure to use bug spray before heading out on the trail.

Black Creek Trail

The Black Creek Trail is a 4.1-mile loop that takes you through the peaceful landscapes of this park. As you walk, you'll pass through wooded areas, offering plenty of shade and a quiet atmosphere. The trail is ideal for those seeking to enjoy nature, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and take in the beauty of this area. This is a great trail to experience in every season, especially during fall when the leaves are changing. On average, the loop takes about an hour and a half to complete and is only 15 minutes from campus. 

Letchworth State Park

If you are feeling adventurous or waiting to take a weekend trip, Letchworth State Park has a lot to offer. With over 30 hiking trails, camping, and even white water rafting, Letchworth State Park covers 14,427 acres of New York State forest. Nicknamed “The Grand Canyon of the East”, the park prominently features three large waterfalls – the Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls – on the Genesee River, which flows within a deep gorge that winds through the park. Letchworth makes the perfect weekend getaway and is only a 40-minute drive from campus. 

On Campus

For those wanting to stay on campus for their walks, the nature trails are a great option. They are near the wooded area adjacent to the Quarter Mile, south of the Student Life Center. They include a measured .5-mile and 1.2-mile jogging trail, which can be used year-round. The nature trails are perfect for a weekend activity, or you can even do so in between classes for a quick workout. Here’s a map for the nature trails . 

For anyone looking to embrace the outdoors and enjoy some fresh air, this list of hiking trails near RIT is perfect for planning your next-day hike or a weekend adventure. The area surrounding RIT offers numerous local day hikes that can help you get in shape and prepare for more challenging treks, like a weekend getaway to Letchworth State Park. This list helps plan your next adventure!