Mendon Ponds Park

Introduction

Mendon Ponds Park, nestled within the towns of Pittsford and Mendon, covers an impressive 2,500 acres, distinguishing it as the largest park in Monroe County. The Park was honored in 1967 when it was designated a National Natural Landmark, primarily for its captivating glacial geology and primitive biology.

Within the park, 550 acres are dedicated to a nature preserve. Wanderers and nature enthusiasts will find over 30 miles of trails, teeming with diverse wildlife and rare plant species. Certain sections of the park are marked off-limits to horse traffic, and for vital reasons. These areas house ancient bogs and delicate plant life that require minimal foot traffic for their preservation.

Over the years, there’s been a misconception that Mendon Ponds is primarily a “horse park,” and thus, unrestricted horse access is allowed. This is far from the truth. Every visitor, whether on horseback or foot, should remember that access to such a park is a privilege. It’s our collective responsibility to take care of the trails and common areas, ensuring they remain pristine for future generations to relish.

Setting

Parking for horse trailers is situated at the intersection of Douglas and Pond Roads. Kindly proceed through the lot and align your trailers on the grassy section, reserving the gravel parking for others. Given the park’s popularity, it’s essential to park thoughtfully, ensuring space for all. This spot can comfortably fit large groups and due to its frequent use, manure can accumulate rapidly. Please be considerate and take any horse waste with you when departing.

The park boasts a rich network of trails, many are unmarked with main trails clearly color-marked. To safeguard the unique biological and geological remnants of the last ice age, horses are prohibited on the Bird Song/Swamp Trail (marked in yellow) and the Quaker Pond Loop (indicated in purple).

During the snowy winter months, horse riders should refrain from using the North Meadow Trail and East Esker Trail. These pathways are groomed for cross-country skiing, and their steep inclines can become treacherously icy.

As a general rule for horse riders, it’s advisable to steer clear of lowland areas during the muddy season. When on mowed grasslands, groups should disperse their foot traffic to prevent the inadvertent creation of unintended trails.

Carriage enthusiasts, you’ll find several trails accommodating your needs. The Southern Meadow Trail (marked in red), Lower East Esker, Lower West Sker, and Lower Devil’s Bathtub are available, along with numerous marked and unmarked paths. Most of the footbridges you come across are carriage-friendly in width, and if not, there’s usually an alternative route, be it a water crossing or a park road.

If you’re setting out on horseback or planning to drive, it’s wise to first accompany someone familiar with the trails. Given the park’s vastness, it will provide you with insights into varying trail difficulties and potential challenges ahead.

Given its popularity, you can anticipate mingling with walkers, hikers, joggers, and a plethora of pets in the park. While the rule mandates pets to be leashed, not all adhere to it. If faced with an off-leash dog, it’s always beneficial to approach the situation tactfully. A comment I often use is, “I’d hate for my horse to unintentionally harm your lovely dog. Would you mind leashing it for safety?” Cyclists aren’t permitted on trails, but they can be seen cruising the park roads.

On rare occasions, I’ve found myself amidst foot races. In such instances, I remember that participants usually pay and are clocked for these events, so I make an effort to steer clear. Harmonious coexistence in this multi-purpose park ensures a pleasant experience for all.

The Journey

Mendon Ponds holds a special place in my heart. Its proximity, coupled with the diverse landscape, ensures that every visit feels fresh and invigorating. Better yet, driving the park allows me to share it with others who may not be physically able enjoy the trails otherwise.

On my recent trip, I hosted an event for WNYCCA. Though autumn typically promises pleasant weather, it played truant this time. But as the saying goes, I’m not a witch, I won’t melt.

The day introduced a whimsical term to my vocabulary – “Mizzle”, a blend of mist and drizzle. Despite the uninviting weather, a fellow club member braved the elements, arriving with two mini horses. As for me, I was accompanied by my trusty stallion, Pete. The drive was even more delightful as we had two additional companions – my friends, Jenn and Sharon. Sharon had brought along the minis for others, but found herself in need of a ride, which we were more than happy to provide.

The minis, with their initial fiery zeal, felt that Pete wasn’t setting a brisk enough pace. So, in response, we adjusted to a comfortable jog. Our itinerary for the day was a scenic loop around the ponds, totaling about 8km. As we made our way across the Rugby field, we ventured into our first canopy-covered trail, leading us over a broad wooden bridge. Though the bridge was flanked by muddy ruts, we traversed it without a hitch, continuing our pleasant journey.

I felt a twinge of gratitude for having only the nimble minis accompanying us. Their size allowed us to explore narrower trails, zigzagging through the woods — routes I’d usually avoid if we had larger horses with the constraints of fixed-shaft, two-wheeled carriages due to the sharp bends.

Emerging from the dense canopy, we found ourselves on the access road leading to the boat launch. This stretch of smooth terrain was the perfect opportunity for our horses to slow down and recover. As we assessed the minis, their enthusiastic gait suggested they were eager for more, and so we delved back into the woods, following another trail.

Transitioning from the forested path to open fields, we neared the main parking lot where a catering team seemed busy preparing for an event. Dominating the landscape in front of us was a sprawling playground, adorned with multiple slides. It was too tempting for the young spirit amongst us, the little girl hopped off one of the carriages to seize the moment, while we paused to let the horses rest.

Moving on, our route took us to a beach, where Pete splashed through the water’s edge. The minis, on the other hand, chose to trot alongside the shoreline. This spectacle not only caught the attention of beachgoers but also a photographer, who was initially focused on capturing a couple’s portrait. Unable to resist our horses’ charm, they snapped a few candid shots of our entourage.

As we moved beyond the bustling pickleball courts, we ventured once again into the woodland. Here, my usually reliable sense of direction wavered as we approached a challenging hilly segment. My decision didn’t turn out to be the best; while Pete managed to ascend effortlessly, the minis found themselves in a bit of a bind midway up. A minor hiccup! As Pete and I waited at the summit, my passengers alighted to help the others. The solution? They disembarked from their carriages and led the ponies up, line-driving them the remaining distance. Once everyone reached the top, it was unanimously decided that a short breather was in order.

Fortunately, that hill was the peak of our adventure’s drama, barring the whims of the weather, of course. Just as we transitioned to a road segment, the skies decided to remind us of their presence, unfurling a steady downpour. The roads, though easier terrain for our equine companions, offered no shelter from the rain. The wide-open stretch became a watery gauntlet, and by the time we delved back into the sheltered trails near the pond, we were thoroughly drenched.

As we neared the pond, we veered into the woods, greeted by an expansive stretch of prime trails blanketed by a dense canopy of leaves. However, the rain’s persistence had transformed certain parts into soft, muddy patches. At the ladies’ request, to ease the minis’ trek, we picked up a trot through these softer areas. All seemed smooth until, it didn’t.

I had been focusing on the left side of Pete to ensure a clear path ahead, assuming the rest of the trail was obstacle-free. This turned out to be a bit shortsighted, as the right side was studded with treacherous tree roots. By the time I spotted them, it was too lat. The sudden jolt, exacerbated by my carriage’s airbag suspension at 30psi, gave us quite the unexpected jostle. Both my passengers and I experienced a minor heart-stop moment, gripping tightly to our seats.

To add to the commotion, a phone was yeeted off into the underbrush. After a quick stop and search, it turned out to be my own phone, which had, it seems, found an “eject” feature from my pocket!

All body parts and electronics accounted for we pressed on.  Approaching the trail’s end, a barrier stood in our path, necessitating one of my passengers to intervene. The obstacle, a sturdy 6×6 post, was designed for easy removal, granting access to horses and carriages. However, navigating this area required care to avoid a gaping hole left in the post’s absence.

With the barrier safely returned to its place and everyone back onboard, we transitioned to a road journey leading back to our parked trailers. While most of the oncoming traffic displayed courtesy, waiting for safe opportunities to overtake us, a few daredevil drivers opted for reckless maneuvers. Their decisions to pass on blind corners and hilly terrains transformed a simple drive into moments of heart-pounding anxiety. The audacity of such risks in traffic never ceases to amaze.

Upon returning to the trailers, we promptly unhitched and dried off our ponies. We then did our best to wring out wet clothes and combat the lingering dampness.

But as is customary among carriage enthusiasts, the end of the ride doesn’t signal the end of the fun! A spread of warm Mac & Cheese, pumpkin muffins, cupcakes, and sparkling grape juice awaited us, making for the perfect post-ride feast. People often ask me why I opt for driving over riding, and the answer lies in moments like these. The camaraderie among carriage drivers is unparalleled — it’s a community bound by mutual support, warmth, and genuine friendship.

Conclusion

Mendon Ponds Park, #4 in my continued quest to traverse all the local parks and trails.

If you’re new to the Rochester area or are contemplating a visit, Mendon Ponds Park tops my list of recommendations. Serving as the pinnacle of equestrian experiences in the region, it is a haven for riders and carriage drivers alike. The vast trails, diverse terrain, and equestrian-friendly amenities make it a dream destination for horse lovers. From leisurely hacks to challenging routes, it’s an equine adventure that shouldn’t be missed. Make sure to saddle up and explore this equestrian gem when you’re in the area!

Trip Statistics:

Distance: 8.0km ~5 miles

Speed: 4.6kmh Average

Elevation Gain: 395m – Lots of short ups and downs

Parking: 4 Hooves – there is always parking available no matter the group size and best perk of all is a frost free hydrant located nearby for a quick hose off or get fill buckets for your horses to enjoy if you choose to have a post ride picnic.

Maps/Signage: 2 hooves – While there are maps and lots of trails you’ll be surprised on how many aren’t marked!  Best to go with someone who knows the park a few times.  Also be mindful of trail conditions. Wet weather stay out of low lands and spread out your hoof traffic in grassy areas.  Stay OUT of areas not marked for horse traffic and please don’t go bushwhacking.

Difficulty: 3 Hooves – the trails vary in difficulty, and you can either stay low and flat or choose to ride steep and rugged! There’s a little bit of everything for everyone!

Maintenance: 4 Hooves – being the premier park in Monroe County it comes with quite the staff both professional and volunteer.

That wraps up today’s show, until next time. Respect the trail, wear a helmet, and clean up after your horse at the trailer site. Happy Trails!