Panama Rocks

Near Jamestown, NY (on Lake Chautaugua is a small, privately owned park called Panama Rocks. It sits in a beautiful setting on a hillside in western New York. The park charges a modest admission fee to view some spectacular rock formations.

A mile long trail quickly provides a view of the cracks and fissures that fill the site.

Lots of beautiful, old growth trees shade the site. Their roots are everywhere. The park requires that visitors sign a waiver, as the trail can be a bit difficult.

The guide map provides a list of the 15 or so named formations. On the downhill portion of the trail you quickly begin to see why this site is so special.

Ancient rocks laid down by a primordial sea mix with relatively modern trees to make a fascinating set of views.

There is a kind of rain forest feel to the place. It is cool and damp, and moss grows everywhere. The cracks and fissures are endless and complex.

Shade and sun are at battle here. Brighter spots peek through darker.

Some shallow caves are in evidence.

There is no sign of anything much larger than chipmunks, though.

Some of the rocks make you wonder.

As you climb to the upper part of the trail you begin to look down into cracks instead of up.

Pay attention here! You will want to see what is down each chute rather than be down the chute.

This is a great place for nature lovers and people curious about rocks.