Discover Genesee: Nature, Trails and History

The Swallow Hollow Nature Trail winds through wooded wetlands, upland hardwood forests and a developing marsh. This sequence showcases Genesee’s natural side: at Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, you can explore more than 10,000 acres; other trails and recreation areas offer their own highlights.

Nature Trails and Outdoor Activities

The Swallow Hollow Nature Trail in the refuge is 1.3 miles long. About half runs along a boardwalk, while the rest follows a smooth, fine-gravel path. The trail is wheelchair accessible; confirm accessibility based on current trail conditions. The refuge regularly hosts interpretive programs, which may include guided nature walks. Check the refuge’s program for specific dates.

The Genesee County Park & Forest offers a different kind of landscape and is considered the oldest county forest in New York State. Its 431 acres include rolling terrain and self-guided nature trails. There is also a sledding hill and picnic pavilions that can be rented. Amenities and rental information may change; check before your visit.

The Ellicott Trail is a 9.7-mile, year-round multi-use gravel trail. Near Walnut Street, it crosses Tonawanda Creek; surfaces and access conditions may vary. At 9.7 miles compared with 1.3 miles, it is considerably longer than the Swallow Hollow Nature Trail. The two trails therefore differ in length and surface.

The DeWitt Recreation Area covers 64 acres and offers kayaking, canoeing and a kayak launch. Other listed activities include fishing, hiking, ice skating and cross-country skiing. Seasonal availability may vary, and water access depends on conditions. The range extends from water activities to options for the colder months.

Museums and Local History

The Holland Land Office Museum is housed in a stone building constructed in 1810 and contains thousands of artifacts relating to the history of western New York. More than 3.3 million acres of land were sold and distributed from the Holland Land Office. Objects on display include the Medal of Honor awarded to Charles F. Rand, who was from Batavia. The museum also houses an original gallows used for executions; the last execution took place in 1881. Exhibits may change.

JELL-O was invented in Genesee County in 1897. The JELL-O Gallery features advertisements, television commercials, molds and paintings related to the product. The museum also includes the transportation exhibit “A Century of Dust, Ruts and Macadam,” which covers more than 100 years of transportation history.

Explore more historical topics at the Historic LeRoy House, which presents the history of Ingham University and the 86,000-acre Triangle Tract. The Stafford Museum of History features artifacts and information about the lives of early settlers in western New York; its collection also includes Morganville pottery.

Art, Gardens and Events

The Batavia Art Trail is a walking tour featuring more than 30 outdoor works of art, including murals and metal sculptures. The selection may change as installations are updated. Downtown Batavia’s Jackson Square also features murals and hosts a summer concert series; the program may vary by season.

Along Tonawanda Creek, the Batavia Peace Garden is a blooming green space that opened in 2012. The garden commemorates the War of 1812 and Batavia’s important role in holding back the British after Buffalo was burned. Tours are available by appointment.

At Six Flags Darien Lake, Hook’s Lagoon features nine water slides, rope ladders, giant water guns, mazes and a treehouse. Events are also part of the region’s offerings: Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel hosts fairs, concerts and holiday celebrations. The Rockin’ the Downs concert series takes place outdoors at the racetrack at Batavia Downs. If an event is important to your trip, check the dates.

Getting Here and Planning Your Stay

Genesee County has three major access points on the New York State Thruway (I-90): Exits 47, 48 and 48A. Maps, restaurant guides and visitor information are available in the lobby of the Genesee County Visitor Center. Access and materials may change; check ahead if you plan to rely on this service.

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Explore more destinations: Bergen, Darien, Le Roy, Corfu, Elba, Orleans County, Madison, Livingston County.

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