UPDATED: Aug. 31, 2017 at 2:08 p.m.

Just under 20 minutes away from campus is one of upstate New York’s gems. Onondaga Lake Park serves as the area’s slice of nature heaven.

Onondaga Lake Park has served as an important cultural hub for centuries and holds particular importance to people in the Iroquois Confederacy.

“The lake has always been considered sacred within the indigenous territory of the Onondaga Nation,” Eddie Bevilacqua, a professor at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, said in an email.

Industrialization of the region severely degraded the lake. Slowly it is returning to its natural state after a process of rehabilitation, Bevilacqua said. From trails to a marina and butterfly garden, here are some options for enjoying the park:

A walk to remember

The parkland around the lake stretches for 7.5 miles. For any jogger, walker, hiker or nature lover, Bevilacqua recommends the East Shore Recreational, Shoreline Walking Trail, Lakeland Nature and the West Shore for the best views.

“The trails are a great way to view and experience the natural areas and facilities surrounding the lake,” he said.

Those who enjoying walking with man’s best friend at their side are welcome to Wegman’s Good Dog Park, one of the most scenic dog parks in the area. Dogs and humans alike can take the opportunity to make new friends at the park.

Don’t be salty at the Salt Museum

Before mass grocery stores and Whole Foods on Amazon, the city of Syracuse was supplying the nation with its most precious commodity: salt.

The Salt Museum at the park helps preserve the industry’s rich history. The museum includes the original boiling block, kettles, wooden barrels and other artifacts used to convert the salt.

Get out and get moving

Aside from the trails, shores, playgrounds, archery range and skate park, the park also hosts festivals, concerts and events.

“The Lakeview Amphitheater, hosting many popular concerts, can be accessed off the trail system and is a popular destination,” Bevilacqua said.  

SUNY-ESF associate professor Douglas J. Daley recommends the yearly Syracuse Festival of Lights taking place in December. From the streets to the grass, the park turns into a mini winter wonderland.

Daley often supplements in-class learning with trips to the park.

“I’ve taken classes to the Honeywell Visitor Center, by appointment. Good overview of Honeywell’s extensive work in and around the lake by great people,” Daley said in an email.

While The Hill does have claim to some parks and greenery, Onondaga Lake Park takes the cake. Finding a peaceful escape from campus is a short while away.

CORRECTION: In a previous version of this post, Onondaga Lake was misidentified in a photo. The Daily Orange regrets this error.

Published on August 29, 2017 at 9:50 pm

Contact Myelle: malansat@syr.edu