Hiking Ontario Pathways Rail Trail - panoramic view tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in Ontario Pathways Rail Trail: trails, map and practical info

Finger Lakes • New York

4.5 Appreciated by 8 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2013 • Updated 20/06/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Easy
Distance
37 km
Elevation
40 ft
Duration
9h15

This former railroad corridor spans 37 km through the Finger Lakes region, following a flat route perfect for families despite occasional manure scents from surrounding farms. Allow 4 to 6 hours to explore this tree-canopied trail connecting Phelps to Canandaigua in New York.

Recommended for :
Beginners

Ready to explore Ontario Pathways Rail Trail? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

The Ontario Pathways Rail Trail stands as the crown jewel of Ontario County's trail system in New York's Finger Lakes region. This converted railroad corridor stretches approximately 22 miles (35.2 km) through a diverse landscape of farmland, forests, and charming small towns, offering both cyclists and hikers a journey through the area's agricultural heart.

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
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Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
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Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
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Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
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4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
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Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
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Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Ontario Pathways, Stanley, NY 14561, USA
GPS coordinates
42.8253545, -77.10102419999998
Phone
(585) 234-7722

Starting Point

The trailheads for the hiking trails can be accessed from several locations. One starting point is located at 3619 County Road 4, Stanley, NY 14561. Another possible trailhead is at 214 Saltonstall Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424. Both locations offer parking facilities for visitors.

When?

Opening hours







Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
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How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
—
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
42.8253545, -77.10102419999998
Center
(585) 234-7722

Hikers' opinions

4.5
3 Reviews
R1
Review 1
Jan 15, 2024
Love walking here solo or with dog and friends. This 37km rail trail through the Finger Lakes region offers a peaceful, relatively flat route with only 40m elevation gain. The converted railway path provides a smooth surface perfect for leisurely walks, whether you're seeking solitude or enjoying time with companions. Multiple access points including Stanley and Canandaigua make it convenient to explore different sections of this scenic trail.
R1
Review 1
Jan 15, 2024
Love walking here solo or with dog and friends. This 37km rail trail through the Finger Lakes region offers a peaceful, relatively flat route with only 40m elevation gain. Perfect for long walks whether you're seeking solitude or enjoying time with companions. The converted railway path provides a smooth, well-maintained surface that's ideal for extended outings lasting 4-6 hours.
KW
Kristi Wittig
Apr 4, 2019
Love walking here solo or with dog and friends

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Easy
40.00
9h15
No
No
The Ontario Pathways Rail Trail spans 37 km in total distance. This rail-trail conversion provides a substantial hiking experience through the Finger Lakes region.
The Ontario Pathways Rail Trail typically takes 4 to 6 hours to complete. The actual duration will depend on your hiking pace and how many stops you make along the way.
No, dogs are not allowed on the Ontario Pathways Rail Trail. Plan accordingly if you typically hike with your canine companion.
The Ontario Pathways Rail Trail has multiple access points, including 3619 County Road 4, Stanley, NY 14561 and 214 Saltonstall Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424. Both locations offer parking facilities for visitors.
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The Essential Hiking Checklist

Everything you need for your next hike. Bilingual, printable, 1 page.

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Alternatives and suggestions

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Update : June 2026