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Whether you live in the Rochester area or are just visiting, there are several natural wonders that you should take time to explore. Let’s discuss these outdoor spots and what makes them so fun.
Quarry Hill Park
The 329-acre Quarry Hill Park gives visitors an abundant space to explore, exercise, and play. The park’s eight miles of hiking and walking trails range from paved to rugged terrain, providing options for hikers of all skill levels. As you hike along the trails, you’ll journey through such diverse habitats as restored oak savanna, limestone fossil quarry, and historic sandstone caves.
You’ll also be treated to stunning views of downtown Rochester from a scenic overlook. Be sure to keep an eye out for the Orioles, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, and Black-capped Chickadees. If you find a fossil in the quarry, it’s yours to keep.
After your hike, stop by the Harry L. Buck pond. In addition to being a great fishing spot, it’s also the place to see wildlife such as frogs, ducks, and muskrats. During snow season, you can rent snowshoes and skis to travel across the park. Winter is also a great time to explore the nature center which houses a 1,700-gallon aquarium, live animal exhibits, and an indoor beehive.
Foster-Arend Lake
If you’re looking to enjoy nature in a relaxed and laid back atmosphere, you should pay a visit to Foster-Arend Lake. With its population of bluegill, largemouth bass, and rainbow trout, it’s a fantastic fishing spot. You can fish from the pier or take advantage of the lake’s boat access. During the warmer months, you can cool off at the swim beach and enjoy a picnic. In winter, the lake turns into a popular place for ice fishing.
Silver Lake Park
Silver Lake Park is a peaceful oasis right in the heart of downtown Rochester. Kids of all ages will enjoy the Children’s Adventure Playground. The park also features a wheelchair and handicapped accessible playground facility. The 1.8-mile loop around the lake is the perfect spot for jogging, biking, or just taking a quiet stroll. Be sure to keep an eye out for Canadian geese, ducks, and other shorebirds.
For excursions on Silver Lake, kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats are available to rent. Silver Lake is populated with bluegill, black crappie, and white sucker, making it a great spot to try your hand at fishing. While swimming is not permitted in the lake, the park contains a lifeguard-staffed swimming pool for public use.
If you’re looking to engage in some friendly competition, you can take advantage of the park’s soccer field, baseball field, or horseshoe pits. If you’re into skateboarding, rollerblading, or riding scooters, you’ll want to check out Silver Lake’s skate park. Make sure to pack a lunch as Silver Lake is the perfect spot for picnicking.
These are just some of the fun spots around Rochester that allow you to get outdoors and enjoy nature. No matter which one you choose to visit, you’re sure to have a great time.
Image by USFWS Midwest Region is licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0
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