Perinton Parks Preserve wilderness guide
Protected Natural Area · NY

Perinton Parks Preserve

Perinton Parks Preserve is a large public natural area in Upstate New York offering extensive trails for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing, amidst diverse forest habitats and scenic wetlands.

Protected Natural Area13504+ Trails
DesignationProtected Natural Area
Total Wilderness Area1350
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Perinton Parks Preserve

Perinton Parks Preserve is a large public natural area in Upstate New York offering extensive trails for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing, amidst diverse forest habitats and scenic wetlands.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Perinton Parks Preserve is a vast natural preserve covering approximately 1,350 acres located in the town of Perinton, Monroe County, New York. The preserve comprises a mix of mature hardwood forests, wetlands, meadows, and streams, providing essential wildlife habitat and outdoor recreation space close to suburban areas. The land was acquired and protected to offer a natural refuge from urban development and a resource for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, trail running, and cross-country skiing. The preserve features more than 12 miles of multi-use trails that wind through diverse ecological zones, including mature red oak and maple forests, wetland marshes with cattails and wildflowers, and brushy field edges that attract a variety of bird species. Visitors can observe wildlife like white-tailed deer, foxes, great blue herons, and seasonal migratory birds. The area also has historical significance as part of the rural landscape of Perinton, preserving its natural character amidst suburban expansion. The presence of the distinctive Irondequoit Creek nearby adds to the preserve's ecological value. Perinton Parks Preserve appeals to families, outdoor enthusiasts, and birdwatchers seeking a natural setting for exercise and wildlife observation. Well-marked trails and clear signage enhance visitor experience, and the park is managed to balance recreation with habitat conservation. One highlight is the extensive trail network that provides loops of varying lengths and difficulty to suit beginner and experienced hikers and bikers. Winter visitors enjoy groomed cross-country ski trails when conditions permit. The preserve is an important green space for the regional community, offering a quiet place to connect with nature year-round.

Field Guide · Protected Natural Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Perinton Parks Preserve

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Extensive multi-use trail network traversing forest, wetlands, and meadows✦ Diverse birdwatching opportunities, especially migratory species in wetlands✦ Cross-country ski trails maintained in winter months✦ Quiet natural area close to suburban centers with wildlife viewing
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Perinton Parks Preserve

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Perinton Parks Preserve
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Perinton Parks Preserve
Park Recreation

Cross-Country Skiing

Available in Perinton Parks Preserve
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Perinton Parks Preserve
Park Recreation

Trail Running

Available in Perinton Parks Preserve
Park Recreation

Nature Photography

Available in Perinton Parks Preserve
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Perinton Parks Preserve.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access with self-pay parking donation boxes at trailheads

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Perinton Parks Preserve

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Perinton, New York
⌖ 0.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Perinton, New York

Perinton, NY, offers quiet outdoor adventures with scenic hiking and biking trails along the Erie Canal, gentle paddling spots, and peaceful nature preserves perfect for bird watchers and anglers alike.

Spring through Fall for general activities; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Fairport, New York
⌖ 1.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fairport, New York

Fairport, NY, is a peaceful canal town perfect for paddling, biking, and casual hiking along the Erie Canal. Its small-town charm, seasonal festivals, and easy access to nature make it a rewarding spot for outdoor lovers.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Pittsford, New York
⌖ 4.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pittsford, New York

Pittsford, NY, is a scenic town rich in outdoor adventure with historic charm. From biking the Erie Canalway Trail to paddling quiet waters or cross-country skiing in winter, it offers year-round activities for nature lovers.

Spring through Fall for warm-weather activities; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Macedon, New York
⌖ 6.11 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Macedon, New York

Macedon, New York, offers a peaceful outdoor retreat with hiking, paddling, mountain biking, and fishing along the Erie Canal and rolling countryside. Ideal for nature lovers seeking quiet adventure close to Finger Lakes highlights.

Spring through Fall for most activities; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Victor, New York
⌖ 6.34 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Victor, New York

Victor offers a charming outdoor adventure scene, with trails for hiking, biking, and skiing. Visit historical sites, and enjoy fishing and camping in this scenic Finger Lakes region town.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Mendon, New York
⌖ 6.56 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mendon, New York

Mendon, NY offers peaceful outdoor adventures with excellent hiking, paddling, and wildlife viewing at Mendon Ponds Park and the Genesee River. It’s a quiet spot perfect for nature lovers seeking seasonal outdoor activities.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Perinton Parks Preserve

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Harriet H. Wiles
ADVEXPEDITION
Macedon, New York
Boat TourADV Bookable

Harriet H. Wiles

Step aboard the Harriet H. Wiles for a unique luxury canal charter through New York’s historic Erie Canal. Perfect for couples or friends seeking a blend of comfort, hands-on navigation, and countryside exploration.

Boat TourStarting at $3,090 | Our newest luxury vessel for couples!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Yoga & Cider at Rootstock
ADVEXPEDITION
Penfield, New York
WorkshopADV Bookable

Yoga & Cider at Rootstock

Spend a slow Sunday moving through an all-levels yoga class inside Rootstock Cider & Spirits’ warm cider room, then linger over local ciders and spirits. It’s an approachable wellness break that pairs gentle movement with the region’s craft culture.

WorkshopCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Harriet H. Wiles
ADVEXPEDITION
Macedon, New York
Boat RentalADV Bookable

Harriet H. Wiles

Float through small Erie Canal towns in a surprisingly luxurious cabin aboard Harriet H. Wiles. Perfect for couples wanting slow, comfortable nights on the water with bikes for quick towpath jaunts.

Boat Rental3, 4, or 7 Night Options • Our newest luxury vessel for couples!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Lockmaster 34
ADVEXPEDITION
Macedon, New York
Boat RentalADV Bookable

Lockmaster 34

Trade highway miles for towpath miles on a 3-, 4-, or 7-night cruise aboard Lockmaster 34 out of Macedon, New York. Private cabins, a full galley, and bicycles for shore exploration make this an easy, family-friendly way to experience the Erie Canal up close.

Boat Rental3, 4, or 7 Night Options • Perfect for Couples & Young Families!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Lockmaster 42
ADVEXPEDITION
Macedon, New York
Boat RentalADV Bookable

Lockmaster 42

Pilot your own Lockmaster 42 houseboat along the historic Erie Canal out of Macedon, NY. Learn locks with full lessons, bike to canal-side villages, and sleep in private cabins aboard a compact floating home.

Boat RentalMost Popular! • 3, 4, or 7 Night Options • Perfect for 2 Couples & Families of 4-6!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Pontoon Days on Sodus Bay — 24' Boat, Ten Seats, One Perfect Day
ADVEXPEDITION
North Rose, New York
Boat RentalADV Bookable

Pontoon Days on Sodus Bay — 24' Boat, Ten Seats, One Perfect Day

Full-day rentals of a 24' pontoon from Bay Bridge Sport Shop for up to 10 people, with life jackets and safety equipment provided and options to fish, swim at the sandbar, or dine at a waterfront restaurant.

Boat RentalPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Kids WakeSurf Camp at Keuka Lake
ADVEXPEDITION
Hammondsport, New York
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Kids WakeSurf Camp at Keuka Lake

Looking for a fun aquatics adventure for kids? The Kids WakeSurf Camp at Keuka Lake offers three days of wake-surfing tuition in the stunning Finger Lakes, perfect for all skill levels.

Water ActivitiesFor all ages! • 3 Day Camp Blocks • 4 Hours on the water each day • Confidence, fun & endless wavesCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip