Cascade Lake Park

Recreational Opportunities

The heart of Cascade Lake Park is its beautiful lake, where you can swim, fish, or try your hand at kayaking and paddleboarding. The sandy beach is ideal for lounging and soaking up some sun, while the boat launch gives you easy access to the water. During summer, the clean, warm waters are ideal for a refreshing dip, but keep in mind there aren't any lifeguards keeping watch.

Winding through the park is a network of trails, both paved and unpaved, that's great for walkers, joggers, cyclists, and hikers alike. The popular paved loop around the lake stretches just over 2 miles and stays well-maintained whatever the season. Surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful vibes, it's a wonderful place to connect with nature and maybe spot some waterfowl going about their day.

Amenities and Play Areas

The park offers plenty of open space for play, including fields, a soccer court, and various nature play areas. But what really stands out is the playground - it's not your typical slides-and-swings setup. The playground features a climbing gym, carved trees, interactive water table, large braid swing, musical instruments, butterfly garden, and sand areas complete with diggers.

With its natural elements and diverse play options, the playground keeps children of all ages entertained. There are separate areas for the little ones and older kids, with plenty of opportunities to climb, slide, swing, balance, and spin to their hearts' content.

For meal times, you'll discover picnic shelters with tables and grills that work great for casual lunches or bigger gatherings. A covered pavilion provides some welcome shade, and there are numerous tables scattered across the park for impromptu snack breaks.

Events and Gathering Spaces

The park is home to the Canfield Amphitheater, an open-air venue with the lake as its backdrop. It hosts concerts, theatrical performances, and community get-togethers year-round. Summer brings the Cascade Concert Series, where local bands and cultural showcases fill the air with music as you relax in the open air.

Nearby, the Cascade Lakeside Building is a year-round event space, making the park a social and cultural hub. This new addition also houses clean, modern restrooms - a welcome upgrade from the previous portable toilets.

Park Overview

Spanning 215.7 acres, Cascade Lake Park is an urban retreat that blends natural spaces with recreational opportunities. At its center is a man-made lake, transformed from a former gravel pit.

The park continues to grow and evolve, with recent improvements making it an even more appealing urban oasis. During special events, food trucks and vendors often make appearances, adding to the festive atmosphere. With its convenient location near downtown Rochester, scenic landscapes, and diverse activities, it's no wonder this park has become a favorite spot for locals and visitors of all ages.