Ontario County Park on Gannett Hill is the highest point in Ontario County and has one of the most spectacular views in the Finger Lakes, but more than that; this park is a great place for hiking, birdwatching, and camping. This park is also a gorgeous place where everyone, including those using wheelchairs, can enjoy the beauty of nature.
Hiking at Ontario County Park
There are approximately 13 miles of trails at Ontario County Park, one of which is the Finger Lakes Trail. The trails vary in degree of difficulty from exceedingly easy (and accessible to everyone) to extremely arduous. Ontario County Park is also a popular destination for bird watching.
The Jump Off
One of the amazing allures of this park is The Jump Off. This open hillside area provides one of the most spectacular views in the Finger Lakes. A handicap-accessible observation deck allows visitors to get an even better view of the vast hillsides of Seneca and Cayuga Lakes. The walk to the Jump Off is super short, which is always a nice change from the usual long hike most spectacular destinations require.
Seasons
We like to visit the Jump Off whenever we find ourselves in the area because the view changes dramatically with the seasons. It is absolutely breathtaking in the Fall when the hillside is practically on fire with Autumn colors. We enjoy hiking here in the fall; the colors are nothing short of magnificent.
Wintertime is a great time to visit for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. There are plenty of places to ski and hike, and the hillsides look magical, covered in snow.
ADA Trail
Ontario County Park has an ADA trail specially designed for people using wheelchairs and walkers. This trail travel on level ground through the woods, leading out to the Jump Off and directly onto the handicap-accessible viewing area. This is a splendid walk through the woods in the Fall, as the colorful trees canopy overhead.
Camping at Ontario County Park
Ontario County Park is also a wonderful place to camp. The park has 24 RV sites, 17 Tent sites, and 5 cabins. The majority of the camping spots are in the open and don’t offer much privacy. On the upside, the campsites are almost all in full sun.
Other Activities
Ontario County Park has other activities visitors can enjoy, such as three baseball diamonds, a playground, and a fishing pond. There are also picnic facilities with tables and grills; some have a shelter. Larger pavilions and lodges can be rented through the county.
Getting to Ontario County Park
Address: 6475 Gannett Hill Park Dr, Naples, NY