The best walks and hikes around Buffalo
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Hiking around Buffalo offers a variety of routes that explore urban parklands, waterfronts, and local nature preserves. The region's landscape is shaped by its position near Lake Erie and the Niagara River, resulting in generally flat terrain suitable for accessible hikes. Many trails follow lakeside shores or wind through woodlands within and near the city.
Best hiking trails around Buffalo
- The most popular hiking route is Unity Island Park and Bird Island Pier — Buffalo Waterfront, a 6.6 mile (10.6 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 40 minutes to complete. This route follows the waterfront, offering views of the Niagara River.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Tiff Nature Preserve loop, an easy 3.2 mile (5.2 km) path. The trail moves through the preserve's marsh and forest habitats.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Delaware Park and Public Golf Course loop — Buffalo, a 1.9 mile (3.0 km) trail leading through one of the city's main parks, often completed in about 45 minutes.
- Hiking around Buffalo is defined by waterfront paths, urban green spaces, and nature preserve trails. The network of routes provides options for different ability levels, with many easy hiking trails available for beginners.
- The routes in Buffalo are rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.9 stars from a number of reviews. More than 80 hikers have used komoot to explore Buffalo's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
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2.25km
00:35
10m
10m
Discover the Hoyt Lake loop, an easy 1.4 miles (2.3 km) hike that offers a tranquil escape within Delaware Park. As you follow the well-maintained paths, you will gain a minimal 28 feet (8 metres) in elevation, making it accessible for nearly everyone. The trail meanders around the serene Hoyt Lake, providing calm water views and opportunities to spot local wildlife like ducks and geese. You can also admire the outdoor sculptures from the Albright-Knox Art Museum and the historic Marcy Casino along the way, blending nature with cultural landmarks.
Planning your visit to the Hoyt Lake loop is straightforward, as the trail is generally accessible year-round. Its mostly paved surfaces make it suitable for a leisurely walk in various conditions. Parking is typically available within Delaware Park, ensuring easy access to the trailhead. This family-friendly route is perfect for a quick outdoor activity, taking approximately 34 minutes to complete at a steady pace.
This route stands out for its unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance right in the heart of Buffalo. The presence of the Albright-Knox Art Museum Sculptures and the Marcy Casino adds a distinctive layer to your outdoor experience, setting it apart from typical park trails. It is a prime example of how urban green spaces can offer both relaxation and cultural enrichment, making it a notable destination within the region.
6.23km
01:35
20m
10m
Enjoy an easy hike along the Fuhrmann Boulevard Sidepath, a paved route offering diverse scenery. This 3.9-mile (6.2 km) trail, with a gentle 51 feet (16 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 34 minutes to complete. As you hike, you'll see great views of Buffalo Harbor and Lake Erie, along with the city skyline. Look out for Gallagher Beach as you pass by; the path provides a straightforward experience for all skill levels.
The Fuhrmann Boulevard Sidepath is a paved, multi-use trail designed for easy access. It is family friendly, and you can bring your dog if it's leashed and you clean up after it. While the route is generally easy, be aware that some parts share the road with cars, so stay alert. This makes it a good option for a quick outing any time of day.
The trail runs parallel to Fuhrmann Boulevard, giving you direct access to the Outer Harbor area. You can also explore the entrance to the Times Beach Nature Preserve, which features its own stone-dust walking paths. Benches are conveniently placed along the route, offering spots to relax and take in the Lake Erie scenery.
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4.34km
01:07
10m
20m
Enjoy an easy 2.7-mile hike on the Jesse Kregal Pathway in Buffalo's Delaware Park, passing lakes and gardens.
586km
148:39
1,250m
1,440m
Hike the 364.3-mile Erie Canalway Trail from Buffalo to Albany, a difficult journey through historic canal towns and diverse New York landsc
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3.00km
00:46
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Embark on an easy hike through the Delaware Park and Public Golf Course loop, a historic urban park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. This accessible route offers diverse scenery, from peaceful rolling meadows dotted with trees to picturesque views of Hoyt Lake. As you follow the path, you'll also pass the expansive green fairways of the public golf course, providing a pleasant open vista. The entire loop covers 1.9 miles (3.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 45 feet (14 metres), making it a perfect option for a quick outdoor escape that takes approximately 46 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit to the Delaware Park and Public Golf Course loop is straightforward, as parking is readily available within Delaware Park itself. The trail features easily accessible paths, including both paved sections and a cinder path, ensuring a comfortable hike for most. While the route is generally navigable year-round, be aware that during winter months, snow and ice can be present on the paths. This makes it a great option for a spontaneous outing any time of day.
This loop offers a unique opportunity to experience a historic urban park setting, originally designed by the renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. You'll find yourself immersed in an urban oasis, enjoying the blend of natural beauty and structured parkland. The trail's easy difficulty makes it suitable for a wide range of hikers looking for a refreshing outdoor activity without venturing far from the city.
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Popular around Buffalo
Tips from the Community
Corning City Preserve is a park on the banks of the Hudson River in Albany. It is directly off of the Mohawk Hudson Bike Hike Trail and it a great place to relax and enjoy the views of the river.
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This day use parking lot is a great place to jump on the Mohawk Hudson Trail. There's usually plenty of parking available & offers picnic tables with a view of the Hudson River.
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Has parking there and a good view of people boating during the spring and summer.
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Great park with a playground and pond. Also has public restrooms
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Pretty parks with views of the Hudson River
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The Corning City Preserve is known best for its nature trails and the amphitheater on the property that hosts a variety of events every year. The trails at the preserve are a great addition to a bike or run on the Mohawk-Hudson Hike-Bike Trail.
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Lions Park has a large parking area and access to the Mohawk-Hudson Bike Trail. It is a great spot for a break as there are also picnic areas with beautiful views of the Mohawk River, public restrooms and a restored train depot.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many easy, beginner-friendly hikes in Buffalo?
Yes, the Buffalo area is great for beginners. Most of the trails are rated as easy, featuring generally flat terrain. A good option is the Delaware Park and Public Golf Course loop, which is a short and pleasant walk through one of the city's main green spaces.
What are some good places to hike with my family and kids?
For a family outing, Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve is an excellent choice with its easy, flat trails around ponds. Another highly-regarded option is Knox Farm State Park, which offers over 600 acres of meadows and gentle paths, plus a dog park.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails around Buffalo?
Many parks in the Buffalo area are dog-friendly, but policies can vary, so it's always best to check for leash rules before you go. Knox Farm State Park is particularly popular with dog owners as it features a dedicated dog park alongside its extensive trail network.
Where can I find hikes with waterfalls near Buffalo?
The region is famous for its gorges and waterfalls. For a truly unique experience, visit Eternal Flame Falls in Chestnut Ridge County Park to see a natural flame burning behind a waterfall. For more dramatic scenery, Letchworth State Park, known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," features three major waterfalls along the Genesee River.
Are there any challenging hikes in the Buffalo area?
While many local trails are easy, you can find more challenging hikes nearby. For a strenuous adventure, the trails descending into the Niagara Gorge at Devil's Hole State Park offer steep sections and incredible views of the river rapids. For a more rugged wilderness experience, Zoar Valley's deep gorges and old-growth forests provide a tougher challenge.
What are some popular places for hiking in Buffalo?
Hikers in Buffalo have several favorite spots that offer diverse scenery.
Tifft Nature Preserve: A popular urban wildlife refuge with five miles of flat trails through marshland, perfect for birdwatching.
Eternal Flame Falls: A famous destination in Orchard Park known for its unique waterfall with a natural gas flame.
Devil's Hole State Park: Offers world-class, challenging trails in the Niagara Gorge with views of the rapids.
North Buffalo Rails to Trails: A long, straight, and scenic path converted from an old railway line, great for a peaceful walk or run.
How long does it take to hike the Tifft Nature Preserve trail?
The main Tiff Nature Preserve loop is about 3.2 miles (5.2 km) long and typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to walk at a steady pace. It's a very flat and easy trail, so you can take your time to enjoy the wildlife.
What is hiking like in Buffalo during the winter?
Winter hiking can be beautiful, with many trails remaining accessible for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Knox Farm State Park is a popular spot for winter activities. When hiking to places like Eternal Flame Falls in winter, be prepared for icy and slippery conditions in the creek bed; proper footwear with good grip is essential.
Are there any good waterfront hikes in Buffalo?
Absolutely. The city's location on Lake Erie and the Niagara River provides several excellent waterfront hiking opportunities. The Unity Island Park and Bird Island Pier trail is a moderate 6.6-mile route that offers fantastic views along the river.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails in Buffalo?
The trails around Buffalo are well-regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of the trails and the surprising variety of scenery, from serene lakeside paths and urban parks to the dramatic beauty of nearby gorges and waterfalls.
Where can I find a quiet, peaceful hike?
For a quiet escape into nature, the Greenway Nature Trail at Lakeside Park offers a peaceful walk through woodlands. Tifft Nature Preserve is another great option, especially on weekdays, where you can enjoy the sounds of nature in its marsh and forest habitats.
Is it easy to park at most hiking trailheads?
Most state and county parks, such as Devil's Hole State Park and Knox Farm State Park, offer dedicated parking areas. For more urban trails or smaller preserves, parking may be on the street. It's always a good idea to arrive early on weekends, as popular spots like Eternal Flame Falls can get busy.
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