Chimney Bluffs State Park is by far the most unique place I’ve seen in Western N.Y. I visited the Bluffs for the first time as a freshman and have since made the trip at least once a semester. The first thing I would say about the park is that it gets cold in the winter. The breeze from Lake Ontario certainly makes a walk along the stoney beach a wind-chilling experience, but as long as you prepare and dress well, seeing the Bluffs covered in snow is so beautiful and worth it. The best time to visit this area is at sunset as the golden light creates unique patterns across the bluffs. I recommend parking in the first of two parking areas. The main parking area has bathrooms and trail information. There are also informational placards that share some information about the bluff formations and their glacial history.
The main trail in the park is an out and back 2.9 mile trail that leads you over the bluffs. It has a beautiful view of the bluffs and Lake Ontario can be seen the majority of the way. The trail starts right near the parking area and finishes near a long set of stairs that lead down to the waterfront where you can finish your walk with a stroll along the rocky beach to observe the Bluffs from below. This trail easily becomes muddy in the winter and spring months so be sure to wear proper footwear and abide by the signs that warn against getting too close to the edge of the Bluffs.
