Rochester is the third largest city in New York state, with a metro population of ~1 million. It was one of America’s first boom towns, and rose to prominence as the site of many flour mills along the Genesee River, and then as a major hub of manufacturing. Today, it is a major university and corporate center. Rochester is a highly livable city, and the running scene reflects that. Our guide to running in Rochester showcases paths along the river and the Erie Canal, and many of the city’s wonderful parks.
Rochester has a great running scene, with many running groups and running events. The best places to run in Rochester are along the Erie Canal, the Genesee Riverway Trail & Genesee River Greenway, and several extensive parks, which also feature some good trail running. The section of central Rochester, around University Ave. & Park Ave. (‘East End’), is also lovely for running. There’s good running in some of Rochester’s immediate suburbs, so a car is helpful.
Public transport in Rochester (the RTS) consists mainly of buses, but the system is pretty good in the immediate metro area. A centrally located Regional Transit Center is a good locus point.
One thing to be aware of is Rochester’s weather. It’s is one of the snowiest cities in the U.S., averaging nearly 100 inches per year. It’s helpful to know what paths are cleared of snow in winter.
Rochester’s weather is influenced by latitude and lakes. It is one of the snowiest cities in the U.S., averaging nearly 100 inches per year. Average January high temperatures are in the 20s (-4C) and nights are in the teens. So be prepared for cold and bring your yak traks. Summers are warm and humid, with average July highs near 80F (26C). Rochester has a reputation for being one of the cloudiest cities in the U.S.
