Ellison Park is home to the first designated mountain bike trail system in the Monroe County Parks department.
The park was named after Frank T. Ellison, a former chairman of the Monroe County Park Commission.
The creek valley within the park is part of a larger geological formation carved by glacial activity.
It is a popular location for birdwatching, particularly during spring and fall migrations along the Irondequoit Creek corridor.
The park contains land that was once considered for the historic Erie Canal route.
Ellison Park is a 447-acre municipal park located in the town of Penfield, just east of Rochester, New York. It is characterized by its steep, forested hillsides and the Irondequoit Creek valley. The park features extensive trail systems utilized for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing. It provides multiple athletic fields, including baseball diamonds and soccer pitches. Winter visitors frequently use the designated sledding hills. The park includes several picnic pavilions and open spaces available for public use. It serves as a major hub within the Monroe County Parks system.
The elevated boardwalks and bridges crossing Irondequoit Creek offer the best vantage points for landscape photography.
Bring insect repellent during the warmer months, especially when exploring the wooded creek trails.
Check local trail conditions online before visiting if you plan on mountain biking, as trails close when muddy to prevent erosion.
Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear if you plan to venture near the Irondequoit Creek shoreline.
Do not attempt to hike the steepest ravines during or after heavy rainfall, as the terrain becomes significantly unstable and muddy.
Stay on marked trails to protect local flora and fauna; dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
