Connecting the three parking lot areas (P) these trails provide a smooth surface for easy mobility. Family trails are used by walkers, runners, bicyclists, skiers, and roller blade users. The trails are black-topped and relatively flat.

Sit by the pond and listen to the frogs or stroll through the prairie looking for butterflies. The trail is short but packed with sights & sounds of life. Trails are grassy and flat.

Points of interest include: the quarry for which Quarry Hill is named and ruins of the historic quarry operation, a large sandstone cave formerly used as food storage, the State Hospital cemetery, and two overlooks of downtown Rochester. Informational signs about the history of the grounds are located along these trails. The trails are hilly and rocky with uneven surfaces. Trails are muddy/slippery in wet weather.

Beginning in 1997 this area was reclaimed as an oak savanna and seeded with native prairie plants. During the summer months the savanna blooms with forbes (flowers) and grasses, attracting birds and butterflies. Bluebirds can be seen here near the bird houses (please enjoy but do not disturb). At the top of the hill a bench allows for a rest while viewing downtown Rochester. Trails in the oak savanna are relatively flat and grass covered. Trails leading to/from the oak savanna are hilly.

Woodland Trails During warm weather look for mosses, fungi, and wildflowers blooming early in the spring along these shady trails. Listen for bird songs or the flap of an owl’s wings. At the south end of East Hill is a remnant “goat prairie” with a view of the area south of the park. Trails are dirt or grass covered and may be muddy/ slippery in wet weather.

These wide grass & dirt covered trails pass through woods and meadows as they wander up and around East Hill, great for a pleasant walk or a long hike. During the winter these trails are reserved and groomed for cross-country skiing. Trails are relatively flat with some rolling terrain.

Paralleling the Family trail this short path leads hikers along Silver Creek. Butterflies and other insects abound during the summer months. The trail is grassy and flat.