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Genesee Valley Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 2,748 Google reviews · Running trail in Rochester, New York · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Genesee Valley Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Sprawling city park with an array of trails, plus multi-use athletic fields, canoeing, golf & more.
What runners say about Genesee Valley Park
“It has well maintained tennis courts, a public swimming pool which is heavily attended in the summer, 3 baseball fields and plenty of running, riding or walking trails.”
“This park has a golf course, walking/running trails, scenic routes with a bridge over the river, waterfalls, playground, baseball field and nice picnic areas/pavilions.”
“Clean,quiet and well designed.”
Play grouds: Nice play grounds for kids, but they are crowded. Parking: Free parking spots and you can park on the side of the road. Picnic area: 2 large shelters with a lot of seats. I believe you need to rent these before using. There are some benches in the open too, but they were busy too. Didn't see any grill.
Close to the city, but that is easy to forget as you hike the numerous trails. Great for kayaking, Genesse River, Erie Canal, and Red Creek.
It's a beautiful place. Unfortunately they put 390 on one side, Elmwood is on the other meaning traffic can be heard. I have found it to be a refuge. Typically the park is less crowded. Also, I have not found a tick on my dogs or myself.
Walking from the Hilton Garden in University of Rochester medical center to Genesee Valley Park allows you to experience the beauty of the area and enjoy a peaceful and refreshing journey.
Trail conditions & character
“This park has a golf course, walking/running trails, scenic routes with a bridge over the river, waterfalls, playground, baseball field and nice picnic areas/pavilions.”
“I recommend parking at Moore Rd entrance near Roundhouse shelter and take a beautiful walk along the tree line trail to the Erie Canal bridges.”
“There is a medium sized building with male and female bathrooms that can be rented out for small events.”
“Great way to get one exercise for yourself or a dog.”
“A second playground is on the east side and accessible by using the park drive off Elmwood.”
Plan your run at Genesee Valley Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitecityofrochester.gov
- Phone+1 585-753-7275
Hours
| Monday | 7 am–11 pm |
| Tuesday | 7 am–11 pm |
| Wednesday | 7 am–11 pm |
| Thursday | 7 am–11 pm |
| Friday | 7 am–11 pm |
| Saturday | 7 am–11 pm |
| Sunday | 7 am–11 pm |
Running trails near Rochester
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Brighton Town Park
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Erie Canal Trail
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Genesee Gateway Park
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Riverside walkway, part of the Genesee Riverway Trail, with a playground & boat ramp.