Over 100 years ago, after the sawmills of the Bristol Hills fell silent, white pine, hemlock, and oak seedlings sprouted along the northern rim of Briggs Gully, one of the region’s largest gorges.

The young trees were tall and strong in 1926 when three artists — John C. Wenrich, James Havens, and Colburn Dugan — bought a 90-acre piece of paradise as a place for peace, quiet, and contemplation.  Today hemlocks rise from shady depths of the gullies, white pines and red pines soar above the younger maples, and majestic oaks spread their wide branches over quiet groves.

In addition to the immense Briggs Gully, some of which forms the southern boundary, several other gullies wind through the preserve.  Diverse stands of mature forest (including about 10 acres of old-growth), a wide array of wildflowers, and sweeping views of the hills surrounding Honeoye Lake’s southern end make this site truly special.

The preserve provides excellent examples of the area’s geologic history and ecological systems.  Water tumbling down to the glacially carved Honeoye Lake cut the deep gullies of the preserve.  Areas more recently abandoned by farmers give the preserve a small field and a woodlot of young trees which provide additional habitats.  Here, you’ll hear Yellow-Throats, Bluebirds, and Song Sparrows, and may see a deer, fox, or woodchuck.

The quiet of the preserve is interrupted only by the sounds of rushing water and songs of Black-throated Green Warblers, thrushes, chipmunks, and other forest denizens.  Be sure to take in the view from one of the rock outcroppings along the gully’s north rim.  On the far side of the Honeoye Valley, beyond the broad expanse of Briggs Gully, you’ll see the Harriet Hollister State Recreation Area.

The children who inherited these woods have now entrusted its perpetual care to the Finger Lakes Land Trust.  In 1999, thanks to a generous donation from an anonymous donor, the Land Trust was able to purchase the property at a reduced price, and launch a campaign to protect additional acreage in this magnificent area.  With the purchase of three more parcels and gift of a fourth, the Wesley Hill Preserve has now grown to 390 acres.  Someday perhaps lands already protected by other public and private agencies will be connected together, from the top of the east hill, across the Honeoye Inlet Valley, to the top of the west hill.

The Finger Lakes Land Trust has learned that incidents involving confrontational behavior have taken place in the Gulick Road parking lot. If you encounter a confrontational person, or any threatening situation, CALL 911. Please also report any incidents to the Land Trust at (607) 275-9487 or info@fllt.org.