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Students interested in exploring nature may feel like the closest options are in the Adirondacks hours away, but Oswego actually has a few places of its own that give students a taste of nature.
It may be surprising to some Oswego State students that there are impressive hiking trails close to campus. On the site of Rice Creek Field Station, less than a mile and a half there are trails that might at first appear untouched for years. However, that is also what gives Rice Creek its appeal. There are a few indications that civilization has touched the area, like the occasional telephone pole and some foot bridges to cross streams.
For students looking to explore trails that make them feel like the only living things around are animals, Rice Creek is perfect. With the scenery flying by, and the feeling of pure nature, these trails are great for an outdoor run.
Unfortunately, not many students actually know about the existence of Rice Creek, or its trails. Nature paths as beautiful and pure as Rice Creek are resources that provide a lot for students, and since it’s so close to campus, and now accessible via the Green Laker Shuttle, maybe the trails will be used and appreciated to the fullest.
For students willing to take a short trip, Sterling Nature Center, about 10 miles away, has even more to explore. Sitting on 1,200 acres, the park features over 10 trails equaling 1.9 miles along the untouched shores of Lake Ontario. The park also offers major attractions during the year, ranging from canoeing and watching the sun set in summer, to snow-shoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter. Whether you are going to take a run, take photos, or just escape from everyday life, a trip to either of these sites is definitely worth the time.
