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Cumming Nature Center

4.8
·171 reviews·Naples, United States

Explore 900 acres of woodland and wetland trails, discover wildlife, and enjoy educational programs at this Finger Lakes nature center.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Mild weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Hiking trail

Cumming Nature Center

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Mild weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore 900 acres of woodland and wetland trails, discover wildlife, and enjoy educational programs at this Finger Lakes nature center.

4.8
(171 reviews)

"Blown away by how incredible this is! Multiple trails with so much to see."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Trails can be muddy or uneven; comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for exploring .

Check for events 📅

From star gazing to maple sugaring, special events offer unique experiences .

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.8 · 171 reviews

Type

Park

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Beaver Trail & River Otters

Beaver Trail & River Otters

Beaver Trail

Discover active beaver dams and keep an eye out for playful river otters in this shaded, easy-to-navigate trail.

Gnome Roam Trail

Gnome Roam Trail

Designated trail

A whimsical .75-mile trail perfect for families, featuring charming gnome-themed discoveries .

Instagram
Extensive Trail Network

Extensive Trail Network

Various trails

Explore over 12 miles of woodland and wetland trails, offering diverse scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities .

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Trail Etiquette & What to Expect

Respect the natural environment by staying on marked trails and packing out everything you pack in. While some trails are easy, others can be more challenging, so wear appropriate footwear. Check for seasonal events like star gazing or maple sugaring demonstrations.

Best Trails for Wildlife & Views

The Beaver Trail is a must-do for spotting beaver dams and potentially river otters.Reddit For a unique experience, don't miss the Gnome Roam trail, especially if you have kids.Instagram Remember, the viewing platform is currently under construction.Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Winter afternoons
Why
Cross-country skiing
Crowd
Medium
When
Event days
Why
Special activities
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🌲 900 acres. 12 miles of trails. Unlimited wonder. Escape into nature at Cumming Nature Center — where every path leads to something beautiful 🍃☀️
explorenaplesny
37 likes • 900 views

Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Trails can be muddy or uneven; comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for exploring.Reddit

Check for events 📅

From star gazing to maple sugaring, special events offer unique experiences.InstagramReddit

UPDATE: The viewing platform at Cumming Nature Center is no longer there! They are building a new one. But that trail is amazing and still worth doing 🥰 I’m a sucker for a good wildlife viewing platform or a strategically placed bench or gazebo! Here are a few of my favorite around Rochester, NY and the surrounding areas! Which ones am I missing? 🧐
hikeandstrollrochester
1.1K likes • 36.5K views
Relive the magic of Alexi and Tom’s enchanting wedding day! Their ceremony under the trees at the RMSC Cumming Nature Center felt like a fairy tale, and the celebration at Bristol Mountain was filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. 🌲💍✨ Shot on a Canon R6 and R7 Special Thanks to: 📸: @valeriekasinskiphotography 🎤: @ceremonysimple 💒: @cummingnaturecenter 🎉: @bristol_mountain_occ...
reelemotionfilms
11 likes • 715 views

Bring snacks & water :water_buffalo:

Especially for families, having provisions makes longer hikes more enjoyable.Instagram

Gnome Roam is a hit :fairy:

Kids love the interactive Gnome Roam trail; a small admission fee applies.Instagram

A hidden gem in Finger Lakes, NY: Gnome Roam! 📍Cumming Nature Center, Naples 🏷️save this post for your future trip to Naples! An hour drive from Rochester, NY makes a great trip to check out a Gnome Roam trail. More Info: 🧌The Gnome Roam is a .75 miles trail 💰$5 admission (FREE for members & children under 3)  ✨Gnome Roam is available from January to March- go before they hide for the season! ❄...
pinesandpeaks_
174 likes • 2.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Trails can be muddy or uneven; comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for exploring.Reddit

Check for events 📅

From star gazing to maple sugaring, special events offer unique experiences.InstagramReddit

Bring snacks & water :water_buffalo:

Especially for families, having provisions makes longer hikes more enjoyable.Instagram

Gnome Roam is a hit :fairy:

Kids love the interactive Gnome Roam trail; a small admission fee applies.Instagram

Cross-country skiing awaits :snowboarder:

Well-groomed trails make it a great spot for winter sports.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(171 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the beautiful, well-maintained trails and the abundance of nature to explore, from beaver dams to potential river otter sightings. The reasonable admission price makes it an excellent value for families. Some visitors noted that a viewing platform was under construction.

"Beautiful trails, nice little museum, reasonable price to go as a family for the day. Haven't tried all the trails yet. Pictures are of the small loop of the beaver trail and the pioneer trailer with detour through monarch meadow to see the sugar house. (No sugaring equipment to look at when not in use, can't enter or see into pioneer cabin)"

Bex F

"blown away by how incredible this is! not from the area, but visiting, & stumbling upon this on google to check out (it was near ontario park where i was prior) & it made my day tons better! multiple trails with so much to see. there is something unique about each trail. did not get to walk all, but will definitely try to in the future."

alexandria wandell

"We really enjoyed our hike in this beautiful nature retreat. Lots of beaver dams, trees, birds and flowers! Well maintained and easy. Well worth the drive! We wish we could attend tonight's star gazing but must head back."

Christine Mullins

What People Like

Beautiful, well-maintained trails
Wildlife viewing opportunities
Reasonable family admission

What People Dislike

Under construction viewing platform

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Cumming Nature Center is located in Naples, NY, about an hour's drive from Rochester.Instagram It's accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. GPS navigation is recommended.

Public transportation options are limited for reaching Cumming Nature Center. It is best accessed by private vehicle.

The most common route from Rochester involves taking NY-390 South to NY-5 & US-20 East, then following signs for Naples and Cumming Nature Center. The drive offers scenic views.Instagram

Yes, Cumming Nature Center is near other Finger Lakes attractions, including Bristol Mountain and various wineries and parks.Instagram

Yes, there is a parking lot available for visitors at the Cumming Nature Center.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is typically around $5 per person, with free entry for members and children under 3.Instagram Prices can vary, so it's always good to check their official website.

Hours can vary seasonally and for special events. It's recommended to check the official Cumming Nature Center website or their social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.

For general admission, advance booking is usually not required. However, for special events like star gazing or workshops, it's advisable to book in advance as they can sell out.

Yes, Cumming Nature Center offers membership options, which often include free admission and discounts on events. This is a great option if you plan to visit frequently.Instagram

Yes, the Gnome Roam trail is typically included with the general admission fee.Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The Beaver Trail is highly recommended for spotting wildlife like beavers and otters.Reddit The Pioneer Trail and Monarch Meadow offer varied landscapes. Many visitors enjoy hiking around 3 miles.Instagram

Yes, many trails are family-friendly, including the Gnome Roam trail which is specifically designed for kids.Instagram+1 Some trails are easy, while others offer more moderate terrain.

Absolutely! Visitors frequently report seeing beavers, river otters,Reddit various birds, and other woodland creatures. The diverse habitats support a rich array of wildlife.

There is a Visitor Center with exhibits, and restrooms are available. The center also hosts educational programs and events.Instagram

Yes, Cumming Nature Center is a popular spot for cross-country skiing in the winter, with well-maintained and groomed trails offering beautiful woodland views.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no on-site restaurants or cafes. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own snacks and drinks to enjoy during their visit.Instagram

Yes, picnicking is permitted. There are often designated areas or scenic spots where you can enjoy a packed meal.

The town of Naples, located a short drive away, offers several local restaurants and cafes serving a variety of cuisines.

Occasionally, events like the Finger Lakes Fermentation Fest might feature local food vendors or demonstrations.Instagram

Yes, bringing your own reusable water bottle is highly recommended. There may be water fountains available for refills.

📸 📸 Photography

The Beaver Trail offers great opportunities for nature photography, especially with the beaver dams and potential wildlife sightings.Reddit The Gnome Roam trail is also very photogenic.Instagram

Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the nature center for personal use. Always be respectful of the environment and other visitors.

Nature photography, wildlife photography, landscape shots, and family portraits are all popular. The changing seasons offer unique photographic opportunities.

Typically, drone usage is restricted in nature centers to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check with the center directly if you plan to use a drone.

Early morning and late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can be particularly magical.

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