This Sunday’s event will explore the large marshland at the south end of Canandaigua Lake. There will be two options – boaters will commence at the State Boat Launch in Woodville, NY , 4 miles north of Naples; hikers will start at the trail crossing on Parish Rd.

Boaters will meet at the state Board Launch in Woodville.  Please plan to arrive in time to have your boat launched by 2:00.  We will be paddling across the south west corner of Canandaigua Lake into the inlet of the West River, a lazy winding stream which traverses a large marshland.  The wetlands are gorgeous in the Fall, with autumn colors and abundant waterfowl. The plan is to travel up stream as far as conditions allow.   There are a couple of different channels to explore. Due to the dry summer we have had. the water level will be low in places, with accumulations of weeds and algae.  Hopefully we can get in 2 hours on the water.

Hikers will meet at the parking area on Parish Rd where the trail crosses the road.They will hike the Middlesex Valley Rail Trail across the marsh toward Sunnyside Rd. This will be an out and back hike, so plan to walk for an hour and then return to the cars. If the group wishes to split into two groups, one group could head west on the trail, turning around at the missing bridge near Rt 21, and then returning to the cars and walking beyond based on the time.

NOTE: Should the weather conditions be unfavorable for boating (i.e. too windy for safety), there will be the option to hike instead, at Ontario County Park, a short drive away.  The decision will be made at the boat launch by the trip leader.  Please bring your hiking boots if you are interested in this alternative.

In the event of rain, the event will be cancelled by 12:00 noon.  When in doubt check the website.

Social Gathering will be at the small village park in Naples, adjacent to Bob and Ruth’s Restaurant which is located at 204 N Main Street (Rt 21).  Please bring your own meal and beverage or order take out from Bob and Ruth’s  374-5122.  There are some picnic tables, but for social distancing it is best to bring your own chair.

Directions  The hike trail parking is on the east side of Parrish Rd. From Wayland and Naples take NY-21 North to Naples. Bob & Ruth’s is on the left side as you head out of the village, across from NY 245. Continue for 1.7 miles on NY 21 past Bob & Ruth’s. Turn right on Parish Rd. In 0.4 miles you will see the trail crossing the road.  Turn left onto the trail and park in the lot available for hikers. From the north, take NY 21 from Canandaigua or NY 64 down Bristol valley. In South Bristol, continue south on NY 21 for 4.5 miles past the intersection of NY 21 and NY 64. Turn left on Parish Rd. In 0.4 miles you will see the trail crossing the road.  Turn left onto the trail and park in the lot available for hikers.

The Kayak and Canoe launch site is on Rte 21, 3.4 miles north of Bob & Ruth’s restaurant in Naples. From Wayland and Naples head north on NY-21. Continue past Bob & Ruth’s for 3.4 miles on NY 21. Just Turn right into the paved boat launch parking area. From the north, take NY 21 from Canandaigua or NY 64 down Bristol valley. In South Bristol, continue south on NY 21 for 2.8 miles past the intersection of NY 21 and NY 64. The boat launch is on the left.