The best hikes from bus stations around Rochester
4.2
(298)
2,122
hikers
6
hikes
Hiking around Rochester, NY, offers diverse landscapes shaped by the Genesee River, Lake Ontario, and glacial activity. The region features a prominent gorge with waterfalls, extensive parklands, and the historic Erie Canal. Glacial landforms like kames, eskers, and kettle holes are present in areas such as Mendon Ponds Park, alongside various hills providing elevated views.
Best bus station hiking trails around Rochester
- The most popular bus station hiking route is Byrness Start Point – Ravens Knowe Summit loop from Byrness…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
5.0
(2)
15
hikers
13.5km
03:57
350m
350m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
9.47km
02:33
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
28.7km
08:12
620m
620m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Back into Byrness, there are rows of garages and houses in this village. It looks like a close knit community
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The surface here was quite rough, uneven and different size small stones. Best rode on a mountain bike. Gravell bikes might go over it.
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This route section forms part of the Pennine Way and crosses potentially boggy ground. The duckboards here help you make progress across what would otherwise be not that good a footpath. Otherwise it is typical Cheviot scenery of rolling moorland with a nearby forest.
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An aptly named highlight where there is a nice big rock for one to stand on to look out over the scenic views towards Green Crag and Ravens Knowe.
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There is a junction of paths at Coquet Head. A lone, "in the middle of nowhere" signposts offers different routes here. The Chew Green Bypass is a Pennine Way alternative route, saving half a mile to the summit of Windy Gyle. It's 4 miles to Byrness over rough ground. If you like windswept, wild and rough terrain, and that kind of thing moves you, you are in the right place for it!
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From next to the cairn on the summit, the views are impressive, particularly over Redesdale and Catcleugh Reservoir. At sunrise, when I was here, this place is basically "a paradise on Earth". By the way, if you are walking up to here from Byrness, be prepared for some serious (and I mean serious) climb. A short climb, but it will test what you're made of!
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Chew Green used to be a Roman station, beyond Hadrian's Wall. The encampment here is right next to Dere Street (a Roman road). It was a five-phase complex of Roman military camps, including a semi-permanent Roman fort, and two fortlets, which were permanently occupied. Most of it is now simply indentations in the grass.
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Dere Street is the modern name for the Roman road built in AD 79-81 between York and the Firth of Forth near Edinburgh. The route of Dere Street is well established across the Cheviot Hills and on to Melrose. The picture shows the England-Scotland border fence and the gate where Dere Street crosses into Scotland. This gate (which was hard to open in August 2022!) is located at Black Halls, between Brownhart Law and Blackhall Hill in the Cheviot Hills. It was inspiring and a great adventure to follow in the footsteps of history.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus-accessible hiking trails are featured in this Rochester guide?
This guide features a curated selection of 6 hiking trails that are directly accessible from bus stations around Rochester. These routes offer a range of experiences, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
What types of landscapes can I expect on bus-accessible hikes in Rochester?
Rochester's bus-accessible trails offer a diverse array of landscapes. You can explore trails along the scenic Genesee River and its gorge, enjoy paths near Lake Ontario, or walk alongside the historic Erie Canal. Many routes also traverse areas shaped by glacial landforms, featuring woodlands, wetlands, and unique geological features.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes accessible by bus in Rochester?
Yes, Rochester offers several easy and family-friendly options accessible by bus. The Erie Canalway Trail, for example, provides flat, paved paths perfect for leisurely walks with children. Parks like Highland Park also offer accessible trails and beautiful gardens, ideal for a relaxed family outing.
Can I bring my dog on these bus-accessible hiking trails?
Many parks and trails in Rochester are dog-friendly, provided your pet is kept on a leash. Popular spots like the Genesee Riverway Trail and sections of the Erie Canalway Trail generally welcome leashed dogs. Always check specific park regulations before heading out, as rules can vary.
Which bus-accessible trails offer scenic viewpoints or landmarks?
For stunning city views, consider trails around Cobb's Hill Park. The Genesee Riverway Trail offers picturesque vistas of the Genesee River and city skyline. Highland Park is renowned for its beautiful gardens and seasonal floral displays, providing a different kind of scenic landmark.
What is the best time of year to enjoy bus-accessible hikes in Rochester?
Rochester's bus-accessible trails can be enjoyed year-round. Spring brings vibrant blooms, especially in parks like Highland Park. Summer is perfect for riverside and lakeside walks. Autumn offers spectacular fall foliage, while winter provides serene, snow-covered landscapes for those prepared for colder conditions. Each season offers a unique experience.
Are there any trails with waterfalls that I can reach by bus?
While the most famous large waterfalls like High Falls are within the city and accessible, specific bus-accessible hiking trails might lead to smaller, charming cascades. Corbett's Glen Nature Park, for instance, features a lovely waterfall and is generally accessible by public transport, offering a serene woodland experience.
What is the difficulty level of the bus-accessible hikes in this guide?
This guide includes a range of difficulty levels to suit various hikers. You'll find 1 easy route, 4 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for both casual walkers and those seeking a more challenging adventure.
What do other hikers say about the bus-accessible trails in Rochester?
The trails in this guide are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.25 out of 5 stars from nearly 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the convenience of public transport access, the diverse natural beauty, and the well-maintained paths that make exploring Rochester's outdoors enjoyable.
Are there any circular routes among the bus-accessible trails?
Yes, many of Rochester's parks and trail systems offer opportunities for circular routes, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same bus stop. For example, trails within Cobb's Hill Park often feature loop options, providing varied scenery without retracing your steps.
Where can I find more information about Rochester's public transportation (RTS) routes?
For detailed information on bus routes, schedules, and planning your journey to these trailheads, you should consult the official Rochester Transit Service (RTS) website. This will help you identify the most convenient bus lines and stops for your chosen hike.
Are there any amenities like cafes or restrooms near these bus-accessible trailheads?
Amenities vary by location. Trails closer to urban areas or within larger parks like Highland Park or near the Genesee Riverway Trail may have restrooms, cafes, or other facilities nearby. For more remote trailheads, it's advisable to plan ahead and bring your own supplies.
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