HIPP BROOK PRESERVE
The following has been adapted from Sacred Sites in North Star Country: Places in Greater New York State (PA,OH,NJ,CT,MA,VT,ONT) That Changed the World.
Story and photos by Madis Senner
Marsh marigolds, wild irises, cardinal flowers and a variety of other water loving plants put on a spectacular show each spring at Hipp Brook preserve in the Rochester suburb of Penfield. Accompanied by wildlife such as song birds, wood ducks and more Hipp Brook provides you the opportunity to experience all the majesty of a marsh in the spring. Because the main trail, the Wild Iris Path is only half a mile long you won’t have to walk too far. The trail is easily accessible. Parking is available on street that borders the preserve.
Hipp Brook is a ninety-four acre mostly wetland preserve. Because it is a Class I wetland, it was able to avoid the fate of being covered with landfill and houses. The Genesee Land Trust began its rescue in 1990, and continued to buy parcels up until 1999. It was one of their first properties.
What adds to fun at Hipp Brook are the numerous boardwalks on the trails. They remind me of younger me and of hikes and canoe trips in the Adirondacks. And while those boardwalks were generally in bogs, there was something mysterious and adventuresome to them; Particularly the boardwalk at Avalanche Pass.
Spring time is the ideal time to visit Hipp Brook. Not only are the flowers putting on their display but the bugs have yet to come out in earnest. Even though our recent cold wave has reduced their numbers still bring your repellent. Fall and winter are the other times to visit.
Please be aware that tree leaves and reeds may impair your view in the summertime. You will also encounter many more bugs when the weather is warm.
There are several benches on the trails that allow you to stop to rest or take in Hipp Brook’s beauty. Give yourself an hour, possibly two for your visit.
Address: 100 Phaeton Dr., Penfield, NY
Webpage: https://www.geneseelandtrust.org/public-spaces/hipp-brook-preserve includes links for maps.
Trail Map: static1.squarespace.com/static
Email: info@geneseelandtrust.org, for events, membership.
Telephone: 585-256-2130
Donate, Volunteer: Donations of land, money and time welcomed. There are several stewardship opportunities: Trail maintenance, fieldwork and educational/teaching opportunities.
Hours: Dawn to Dusk. No camping, hunting or fires. Dogs must be on a leash.
Directions: From I-490 exit (23) onto Rt. 441 going east. Turn left onto Baird Rd. Right onto Whalen Rd. Left onto Jackson Rd. Ext. Left onto Brougham Dr. Your first left onto Phaeton Dr. Follow to the end and park around the circle.
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