THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Hemlock-Canadice State Forest wilderness guide
State Forest · NY

Hemlock-Canadice State Forest

The Hemlock-Canadice State Forest offers serene lakeside views, diverse plant and animal life, and is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility in nature.

State Forest6,6842+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

6,684

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Hemlock-Canadice State Forest

The Hemlock-Canadice State Forest offers serene lakeside views, diverse plant and animal life, and is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility in nature.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Hemlock-Canadice State Forest, located in the Finger Lakes region of New York, covers approximately 6,684 acres and is centered around the undeveloped shorelines of Hemlock and Canadice Lakes. This state forest is a protected area, maintaining pristine conditions for wildlife conservation and public enjoyment. With dense woodlands and serene waterscapes, the forest supports a wide range of flora and fauna, including several rare species. It's notable for its commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the gorges and upland forests. Visitors can relish in recreational opportunities like hiking and fishing while taking in the tranquil beauty of the two glacial lakes. As the only undeveloped Finger Lakes, Hemlock and Canadice hold historical significance as they serve as vital water sources for Rochester. The forest practices sustainable management to keep its biodiversity intact, ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy its untouched beauty.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Hemlock-Canadice State Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Paddleboarding on Hemlock Lake★ 7.5⌖ 1 miPaddleboarding
East Lake Road

Paddleboarding on Hemlock Lake

Explore serene paddleboarding on Hemlock Lake, near Hemlock, NY. This less crowded spot offers peace and stunning natural views. Ideal in summer for adventure seekers, it is remote with easy drive-in access. Don't forget a permit as it's a protected water source.

PaddleboardingView Details→
Fishing on Hemlock Lake★ 7.2⌖ 2 miFishing
Finger Lakes

Fishing on Hemlock Lake

Explore Hemlock Lake in the Finger Lakes region, ideal for fishing with populations of trout and bass. The area is managed for conservation, offering a tranquil setting with beautiful natural scenery. Accessible year-round, best fishing in spring and summer.

Fishing in Honeoye Lake★ 6.5⌖ 5 miLake Fishing
Finger Lakes

Fishing in Honeoye Lake

Enjoy fishing at Honeoye Lake near Ithaca, New York. With year-round accessibility, this tranquil spot is perfect for lake fishing from shore or boat. Remember to have your fishing license ready as you explore this family-friendly location.

Lake FishingView Details→
Serene Lakeside Beauty at Conesus Lake, NY★ 7.6⌖ 6 miFishing
Conesus Lake

Serene Lakeside Beauty at Conesus Lake, NY

Conesus Lake in western New York offers a peaceful freshwater escape about 50 miles from Rochester. Ideal for fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and bird watching, this spot features calm waters and easy access for visitors seeking a relaxed outdoor experience from late spring through early fall.

Mountain Biking at Bristol Mountain Bike Park★ 7.2⌖ 10 miMountain Biking
Bristol Mountain Ski Resort

Mountain Biking at Bristol Mountain Bike Park

Mountain Biking at Bristol Mountain Bike Park near Canandaigua, NY offers thrilling trails for adventure seekers, featuring a hard 1,600-foot descent. Accessible by car, this spot is best in Fall and is relatively quiet year-round. Recommended for experienced bikers.

Mountain BikingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Scenic views of Hemlock and Canadice Lakes✦ Rich biodiversity with opportunities for wildlife viewing✦ Historic significance as a water source for Rochester✦ Tranquil hiking through mature forests
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Hemlock-Canadice State Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Hemlock-Canadice State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access; boating permits required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Hemlock-Canadice State Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Hemlock
⌖ 2.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hemlock, New York

A serene community embraced by the tranquil beauty of Finger Lakes, offering a peaceful escape with outdoor pursuits aplenty.

Spring to FallExplore Town
Canadice
⌖ 3.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Canadice, New York

A quiet retreat offering serene outdoor adventures in the heart of the Finger Lakes region.

Honeoye
⌖ 4.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Honeoye, New York

A peaceful haven in the Finger Lakes that offers serene outdoor adventures throughout scenic landscapes.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Conesus
⌖ 5.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Conesus, New York

A peaceful Finger Lakes town offering serene water adventures and gentle trails with seasonal outdoor variety.

Late spring through early fall for paddling and hiking; winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Livonia
⌖ 5.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Livonia, New York

A peaceful rural town surrounded by rolling hills, lakes, and forested areas offering a quiet and scenic outdoor retreat with access to water, trails, and seasonal activities.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Groveland
⌖ 8.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Groveland, New York

A peaceful rural gateway to the Finger Lakes region offering lakefront recreation, wooded trails, and seasonal outdoor pursuits.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Hemlock-Canadice State Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.