Join us for a hike at the Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area. Harriett was a Rochester horticulturist, rose expert and civic leader. Over 600 acres in the park was donated to New York State from her estate in the 1960’s. It is part of the New York State Park System. There is a panoramic view of the countryside from the Overlook Trail. Some folks take the long drive up just to gaze at Honeoye Lake and the surrounding hills from this two thousand foot high vantage point. On a clear day, the Rochester skyline is visible. For some this will be a familiar destination, for others an opportunity to explore a variety of trails through the forest with some intriguing terrain. As usual we will gather at the designated parking area to welcome everyone and to form our hiking groups. Maps will be provided to hike leaders.

Naturalists will head out on Ruthie’s Run to the Chalet Trail. This area is an old road that once led to a large chalet and cabins which housed a camp at one time. Two of the old red cabins are still standing. One is used by the Nordic Ski Patrol during the winter season. This group will continue on until the trail meets The Pines trail. There they will stroll through a lovely corridor of Norway Spruce, eventually arriving at the picnic area and restrooms. From there they can amble along Overlook Road to take in the scenic view for as long as they wish. A short half mile hike up the road or along the trail that parallels the road, will return them to the starting point. Total mileage about 2.5 miles. Hike leader to be recruited.

The Tourist group will follow the Overlook Road for a brief way to connect with Cannonball Run, a shady fern covered section of the woods. Where Cannonball meets the park road, the Tourists can stop to admire the outstanding view before proceeding on to Raccoon Run and the Blue Spruce Trail, an easy meander through the forest, with a few small hills to navigate. This group will return to the parking area via the Chalet Trail for a total of about 4 miles. Wendy will lead this group.

Climbers will tackle a number of trails, beginning at Big Oak, to hike around the perimeter of the park in a clockwise direction. This group will sample most of the park trails during their 5 + mile journey. They will also enjoy a stop at the famous Overlook. Hike leader to be recruited.

Social: Following the hike we will have a dish to pass social at the parking area. Bring a dish to pass or make a donation to the Social Fund. Also bring your own beverage.

Directions: From 1 mile north of Springwater on Rt. 15A, turn up Wheaton Hill RD. Drive all the way to Wetmore RD. and turn left. Continue straight onto Canadice Hill RD. and drive another 2 miles to the park on the right.

From Honeoye: Take County Road 37 and continue straight onto Canadice Hill Rd. to the park on the left..