The Conesus Lake Inlet is located at the south end of Conesus Lake and is 1,120 acres of wetlands. This unique area is teeming with wildlife and is well-known as a place to see bald eagles nesting. The attraction to this area is its proximity to the wetland. Visitors get an up-close and personal view of this fascinating ecosystem.
There are several entrances to this Wildlife Management Area. One is located at the end of Conesus Lake on West Lake Road, The other two are on Sliker Hill Rd. The entrance off of West Lake Road offers a place to launch canoes and kayaks.
Hiking
There are a number of short hiking paths that take you in very close proximity to the wetlands. There is a paved path that follows along the creek to the dam otherwise most of the trails are dirt or gravel-covered. On the west side of the wildlife management area, there are observation areas that overlook the wetlands and are excellent places to take pictures. This is a wetland area, so sometimes mosquitos can be an issue. If you plan to visit in the summer, come prepared with repellent. This area is beautiful during every season due to its spectacular landscape.
Kayaking/Canoeing
The Conesus Lake Inlet Wildlife Management Area is an exquisite place to go paddling. Only boats without motors are permitted in the inlet. There is a car-top boat launch at the West Lake Road entrance. Visitors can get a more intimate look at the wetlands while paddling. There are canoe trails that traverse the entire wildlife management area. The Conesus Lake Inlet is a peaceful and serene location, especially when you get far back into the inlet.
Fishing
This area is a popular fishing area. The car-top boat launch off of West Lake Road gives access not just to the inlet but also to Conesus Lake. The Conesus Lake Inlet Wildlife Management Area offers many places to fish. The inlet happens to be the only northern pike spawning area in Conesus Lake. People enjoy visiting the Conesus Lake Inlet in the Spring to watch the migrating fish. Fishing is not permitted when fish are spawning.
Wildlife and Birdwatching
The Conesus Lake Wildlife Management Area is a great place to not only birdwatch but also spot many different kinds of wildlife. This area is known for being the nesting grounds of a pair of bald eagles. The animals that can be found living and wandering through the wetlands area are waterfowl, squirrels, cottontail rabbits, muskrats, mink, raccoons, white-tail deer, grey fox, and red fox, shorebirds, songbirds, and reptiles, such as snakes, frogs, and toads.
Seasons at the Inlet
The Conesus Lake Inlet is also a great place to watch the autumn leaves change. We like to visit here in the spring when the fish are spawning. Birdwatchers will enjoy the spring and fall migrations.
Directions
The Conesus Lake Inlet Wildlife Management Area is located at the south end of Conesus Lake. If you take West Lake Road to the end of the Lake and turn right onto Sliker Hill Road, the inlet entrance is on your right. There is another parking area further down Sliker Hill Road as well.