Old Rifle Range

This route begins at the Lucien Morin Park trailhead off Empire Boulevard and winds through a network of loop and spur trails nestled between Irondequoit Creek and the bay. From the main kiosk, follow the wide path into the forest and take a left at the first junction to climb gradually into mixed hardwoods. Several junctions offer options for short detours or longer extensions—stay generally left to maintain elevation along the hillside. Look for remnants of the area’s former use as a rifle range and old stone structures hidden in the undergrowth. After a gentle descent, the route skirts the edge of wetland habitat near Irondequoit Creek. Keep left to return along a lowland trail beneath a canopy of maples and oaks. Trail conditions vary with the seasons—expect muddy sections in spring and icy footing in winter. While this is not a remote hike, it offers a quick, forested escape with excellent birdwatching and filtered water views throughout.