Turning Point Park & Boardwalk
Wooded acres with a waterfall, paved trails, and a scenic boardwalk over the Genesee River, teeming with wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for wildlife viewing
Turning Point Park & Boardwalk
Best Time
Best for wildlife viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Wooded acres with a waterfall, paved trails, and a scenic boardwalk over the Genesee River, teeming with wildlife.
"A beautiful nature area with trails and a long boardwalk over the Genesee River for walking, hiking, or cycling."
🚶♀️ Boardwalk Views
Enjoy the 2/3-mile boardwalk over the Genesee River for wildlife and scenic beauty. Dog-friendly too! :dog:
🥾 Challenging Incline
Be ready for a steep hill near the parking lot before reaching the boardwalk. Rest of the trails are easier. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Genesee River Boardwalk
Over the Genesee River
A scenic 2/3-mile boardwalk offering stunning views of the river, marshlands, and abundant wildlife.
Wildlife Watching
Boardwalk and wooded trails
Spot painted turtles, barn swallows, swans, deer, foxes, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
Wooded Hiking Trails
Bullock's Woods and beyond
Explore shaded trails through oak forests, leading eventually towards Lake Ontario for a longer excursion.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Wildlife
Navigating the Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Boardwalk Views
Enjoy the 2/3-mile boardwalk over the Genesee River for wildlife and scenic beauty. Dog-friendly too! :dog:
🥾 Challenging Incline
Be ready for a steep hill near the parking lot before reaching the boardwalk. Rest of the trails are easier. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Seasonal Beauty
The park offers unique charm in every season, from spring blooms to fall colors.
🎣 Fishing Opportunities
Anglers can cast a line in designated areas for a relaxing outdoor experience. :fishing_pole:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Boardwalk Views
Enjoy the 2/3-mile boardwalk over the Genesee River for wildlife and scenic beauty. Dog-friendly too! :dog:
🥾 Challenging Incline
Be ready for a steep hill near the parking lot before reaching the boardwalk. Rest of the trails are easier. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Seasonal Beauty
The park offers unique charm in every season, from spring blooms to fall colors.
🎣 Fishing Opportunities
Anglers can cast a line in designated areas for a relaxing outdoor experience. :fishing_pole:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Turning Point Park's beautiful boardwalk, abundant wildlife, and scenic wooded trails. It's praised as a peaceful nature escape with opportunities for walking, hiking, cycling, and fishing. Some note a challenging incline near the parking lot, but overall, it's considered a gem for nature lovers.
"This hike has just about everything you could want. The boardwalk goes over marsh land where you can watch painted turtles sunbathing on cat tails and floating logs. You can watch the barn swallows fly around playing tag and doing barrel rolls mid air. If you're lucky you might even see the swans & their little ones paddle by. After this your path leads to a couple miles in shaded woods that eventually gives out to the great lake. You can grab a bite to eat or a beer at Pelicans nest or even bill grays on the water."
Greg guevara
"Beautiful nature area with trails and a 2/3 mile long boardwalk over the Genesee River for walking, hiking or cycling. Lots of wildlife, especially birds and turtles. Something interesting to see in every season."
John
"The great board walk, with scenic views, lot of wild activity. And dog friendly. You can do fishing as well."
saravanan krishnan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Turning Point Park is located in Rochester, NY, on the northwest side near Lake Ontario. It's accessible by car, with parking available. The park is part of the Genesee Riverway Trail system, making it reachable by bike as well.
Yes, there is a parking lot available for visitors. It can get busy, especially during peak times, so arriving early is recommended.
Information on public transportation routes to Turning Point Park can be found on the Rochester transit authority's website. It's advisable to check current schedules and routes.
Generally, Turning Point Park is considered safe for solo visitors, especially during daylight hours. It's a popular spot for walkers and joggers. As with any park, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
The park is connected to the Genesee Riverway Trail, which offers dedicated biking paths. These trails provide a scenic and safe route for cyclists.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Turning Point Park is a public park and does not typically have an entrance fee. Enjoying the trails and boardwalk is free for all visitors. :free:
As a public park, Turning Point Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific hours may vary seasonally, so it's best to check local park information if you plan a very early or late visit. :clock1:
No, advance booking or tickets are not required for Turning Point Park. It's a public space open for everyone to enjoy. :ticket:
Standard park rules apply, such as leash laws for dogs and regulations against littering or damaging vegetation. Check the official park guidelines for any specific restrictions. :scroll:
Turning Point Park is suitable for group visits, but large organized events might require permits. It's advisable to contact the park authorities in advance for any large gatherings. :bustsinsilhouette:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the 2/3-mile boardwalk that stretches over the Genesee River, offering fantastic views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
You can see a variety of wildlife including painted turtles, barn swallows, swans, deer, foxes, and numerous bird species.
Most of the trails, including the boardwalk, are paved and wide enough for strollers. However, there is a challenging incline between the parking lot and the boardwalk that may require assistance.
Yes, fishing is permitted at Turning Point Park. It's a popular spot for anglers to enjoy the riverfront. :fishing_pole:
Yes, Turning Point Park is dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. :dog:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within Turning Point Park. However, nearby options like Pelicans Nest or Bill Grays on the Water are mentioned as places to eat.
Picnicking is a great way to enjoy the park's natural beauty. While there are no designated picnic areas, you can find scenic spots along the trails or near the river. Remember to pack out all your trash. :picnic_table:
Nearby dining options include Pelicans Nest and Bill Grays on the Water, offering a chance to grab a bite or a beer with a view.
There are no regular food trucks scheduled for Turning Point Park. It's best to plan your meals or snacks accordingly. :ice_cream:
Nearby restaurants like Pelicans Nest and Bill Grays on the Water typically offer casual dining fare, including seafood and American classics.
📸 📸 Photography
The boardwalk over the Genesee River offers stunning perspectives, especially during sunrise and sunset. The wooded areas and seasonal foliage also provide beautiful backdrops.
Absolutely! The park is a haven for nature photographers, with abundant wildlife, diverse plant life, and scenic river views.
Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for photography, creating a golden hour effect. These times also increase your chances of seeing wildlife.
Drone usage is subject to park regulations and FAA guidelines. It's essential to check with the local park authorities for current drone policies before flying. :drone:
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm or a telephoto lens for wildlife, would be beneficial. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive river views. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions. :camera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as there are no concessions within the park. It's a great place for a nature walk, a picnic, and for children to learn about local wildlife in a natural setting. The open spaces also allow for some running around. :child:
🚶♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
+1Consider incorporating the boardwalk into your route for a scenic change of pace. The park is also a great place for interval training due to the mix of flat stretches and inclines. Remember to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. :runner:
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Genesee Riverway Trail
+1The trail connects several parks and points of interest, allowing for extended exploration. Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a longer bike ride, the Riverway Trail provides a well-maintained and scenic route. It's a fantastic way to experience Rochester's natural beauty and urban interface.
Key features of the trail system include its accessibility and the diverse environments it traverses. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a peaceful escape within the city limits. Remember to be mindful of other trail users, especially cyclists, and adhere to posted speed limits.
A Haven for Wildlife Enthusiasts
Visitors frequently report seeing painted turtles basking on logs, various bird species like barn swallows and waterfowl, and even larger mammals such as deer and foxes in the wooded sections. The presence of swans and their cygnets adds to the charm during warmer months.
For the best wildlife viewing experience, early mornings and late afternoons are recommended, as animals are often more active during these cooler parts of the day. Bringing binoculars can greatly enhance your ability to observe distant wildlife.
Seasonal Transformations of Turning Point Park
Autumn is a spectacular time to visit, as the wooded areas transform into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. The crisp air and colorful foliage create a picturesque setting for hiking and photography.
+1Even in winter, the park holds a quiet charm. Snow-covered trails and the frozen river can offer a serene landscape, and hardy wildlife species can still be spotted. Each season provides a unique perspective and reason to explore this natural gem.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit