Oatka Creek Park is a hidden gem of the Monroe County Park System, a smaller property perfect for a fall hike or winter ski.

Highlights include mature woods, isolated meadows, beautiful view of Oatka Creek, and the visible remains of the gypsum mines, which operated in the hamlet of Garbutt until the 1930’s.

https://www.townofwheatland.org/single-post/gypsum-mining-in-garbutt

We will be hiking the perimeter of the park using portions of all of the named trails, slightly over 4 miles of rolling hills.  The Naturalists may shorten the hike by skipping the steep-ish red trail loop and heading straight back to the main park at mile 3.

We will meet in the upper parking lot just off Quaker Road as the lower lot is smaller and may be used by those renting the pavilion.

Social afterward at RUSH CREEKSIDE INN, 6071 E Henrietta Rd, Rush, NY 14543

Directions: From Interstate 390, take Exit 9 (Rush) and go west on Route 251. After crossing the Genesee River, go straight ahead on Quaker Road when Route 251 turns north toward Scottsville. In about 2.25 miles Quaker Road will end in a T at the park entrance. Go straight ahead to the first parking lot.

Alternative from Springwater: Take Route 15 north to Route 251 intersection. Go west, cross river, keep going straight ahead on Quaker Road to park entrance.