The Finger Lakes are rich with the history of the Seneca Indians that once lived along the shore of almost every lake. Canadice is no exception. In fact, there is a large amount of archeological evidence that suggests Seneca Indians lived on both shores of this lake. Many people have found artifacts in the creekbeds of tributaries running in and out of Canadice Lake.
Canadice Lake may be the smallest of the Finger Lakes but is widely regarded as the prettiest and most peaceful. Canadice Lake was formed over 2 million years ago by the Laurentine Ice Sheet. The name Canadice is derived from the Seneca word Ska-ne-a-dice which means long lake.
Canadice has supplied water to the city of Rochester since 1876. The Lake’s elevation allows for the water to naturally flow to the City without the use of pumps.
Lake Facts
Length: 3 Miles
Width: 0.3 Miles
Acreage: 649 Acres
Maximum Depth: 95 Feet
What To Do
Canadice Lake Walking Trail
There are two entrances to this trail that is approximately 4 miles long and wrapped around the western shore of Canadice Lake. The one entrance is on Canadice Lake Road at the Southern end of the Lake. There isn’t much of a parking lot here, only roadside parking. The main entrance is on Purcell Hill Road on the north end of the lake which has a sizable parking lot. This is a great trail to walk or bike and is open from dawn until dusk.
If you visit in the early evening, the birds on the north end of the lake, in the clearing, will swoop around your head eating bugs.
Canadice Falls
This is a short hike through the creek to a beautiful waterfall. Visitors can enjoy several smaller falls on their walk to the big waterfall. Canadice Falls is most impressive in the spring.
Hemlock Lake and Lake Park
This beautiful lake is located quite close to Canadice on State Route 15A. There is a park and several boat launches located on Hemlock Lake. While swimming is not permitted, fishing is. Enjoy a hike on the Lake trail or a picnic in the park.
Hemlock-Canadice State Forest
This 6,684-acre forest has lots of hiking trails and beautiful spots for those who want to explore this state forest.
Waterfalls
There are lots of waterfalls in the area. Lace up your hiking boots and chase some of these beautiful waterfalls.
Sandy Bottom Park and Nature Trail
Located on the north shore of Honeoye Lake. The park features a beach, a small hand-release boat launch, a volleyball court, basketball courts, pavilions, a nature trail, a playground, and picnic facilities including charcoal grills.
Harriet Hollister Spencer Park
This park is located on Canadice Hill Road in Springwater. The park is famous for its unobscured view of Honeoye Lake It is a favorite place for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. There is also a pavilion as well as picnic facilities.
Boating
Canadice Lake is managed by the DEC and therefore certain rules need to be adhered to. All boats need to be less than 17 feet long and run on a 10 HP motor or less. This lake is great for kayaking, canoeing, and standup paddleboarding.
Canoeing and Kayaking
People come from far and wide to paddle on this lake. The flat crystal clear water makes for a nice and relaxing time on the water. There is lots of wildlife on this lake and being on the water is the best place to watch it from.
Boat Rentals
Canadice Lake Outfitters – If you don’t have your own canoe, kayak, or paddleboard – no problem. You can rent standup paddleboards, single kayaks, 2 man kayaks, pedal kayaks, and canoes. Call ahead for reservations. They have bike rentals as well (perfect for riding along the Canadice Lake Trail.)
Looking to save a little money on your rental? Click on the link for Groupon offer.
Fishing
Canadice is a great lake to fish in. The lake is filled with all sorts of fish species including Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Chain Pickerel, Brown Bullhead, Pumpkinseed, Bluegill, Black Crappie, Yellow Perch, Rock Bass, Lake Trout, and Brown Trout. People also enjoy ice fishing on this lake.
Where To Eat
Twisted Rail Brewing Company – 5226 East Lake Road, Honeoye, NY – Located next to the Trident Marina on East Lake Road, this restaurant has developed a reputation for serving top-notch food. There is outdoor seating available overlooking the lake.
Birdhouse Brewing Company – 8716 Main St., Honeoye, NY – This restaurant doesn’t just have amazing craft beer, but incredibly yummy food as well.
Where To Stay
Cottage and House Rentals
There are no rentals directly on the lake but there are properties around in the area. Check with AirBNB for details or Evolve Vacation Rentals.
Camping
getting out into the great outdoors is the best way to appreciate nature. There are several really great campgrounds close to Canadice Lake.
Is Canadice Lake your favorite Finger Lake? Did we miss anything? We want to hear from you. Please leave us a comment below.
I can tell a lot of hard work went into creating this. Well done! thank you for posting.