FIELD TRIP: Mendon Ponds - 3 Hour
Mendon Ponds
East Esker Trail Parking
67 Pond Rd, Honeoye Falls, NY 14472
https://www.google.com/maps/place/East+Esker+Trail+Parking/@43.0157834,-77.5695684,17z/data=!4m6!3m5...
Parking for horse trailers is situated at the intersection of Douglas and Pond Roads.
Mendon Ponds Map: https://www.monroecounty.gov/files/parks/Maps/MPP-trail.pdf
As well as: http://www2.monroecounty.gov/parks-mendonponds.php
Learn more about the Mendon Ponds trail system from Rochester Trail Riders including a 14 minute podcast episode: https://rochestertrailriders.com/2023/11/mendon-ponds-park/
Mendon Ponds Park, nestled within the towns of Pittsford and Mendon, covers an impressive 2,500 acres, distinguishing it as the largest park in Monroe County. The Park was honored in 1967 when it was designated a National Natural Landmark, primarily for its captivating glacial geology and primitive biology.
Within the park, 550 acres are dedicated to a nature preserve. Wanderers and nature enthusiasts will find over 30 miles of trails, teeming with diverse wildlife and rare plant species. Certain sections of the park are marked off-limits to horse traffic, and for vital reasons. These areas house ancient bogs and delicate plant life that require minimal foot traffic for their preservation.
The park boasts a rich network of trails, many are unmarked with main trails clearly color-marked. To safeguard the unique biological and geological remnants of the last ice age, horses are prohibited on the Bird Song/Swamp Trail (marked in yellow) and the Quaker Pond Loop (indicated in purple).
During the snowy winter months, horse riders should refrain from using the North Meadow Trail and East Esker Trail. These pathways are groomed for cross-country skiing, and their steep inclines can become treacherously icy.
As a general rule for horse riders, it’s advisable to steer clear of lowland areas during the muddy season. When on mowed grasslands, groups should disperse their foot traffic to prevent the inadvertent creation of unintended trails
Stats
Ride or Drive – Ride or Drive
Trail Level – Moderate to Advanced close to 30 miles of varied trails from herd path, to wide. Level to steep climbs over glacial dumlins
Parking – Fantastic – Large and wide and can handle large groups. Near by frost free hydrant for water.
Distance – 30 miles of trails
Challenges – Loose dogs, impatient cars and cyclists, potential foot races
Guided
3 Hour Ride: $300
Self-Guided as space allows
Boarders: $150 transport cost
Members: $150 transport cost + 2 member ride hours