The best running trails around North Tonawanda

The Tonawanda Rails to Trails offers a pleasant and varied jogging experience across its predominantly flat, paved, and crushed gravel surfaces. You'll journey through a mix of residential and commercial areas, past schools and parks, and into more tree-lined sections, with a highlight being the old railroad bridge crossing Ellicott Creek. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like turkeys and various bird species as you enjoy the accessible pathway.

Planning your jog is easy, with multiple parking options available at spots like Ives Park, Walter M. Kenney Field, and Lincoln Park. The trail is well-maintained with clear signage and safety features like HAWK signals at major intersections, making it a stress-free choice for a run. It's an excellent option for those looking for a consistent, easy route without significant elevation changes.

This trail is built on the historic rail bed of the NY & Erie RR, dating back to the 1880s, giving it a unique historical context. It seamlessly connects to the North Buffalo Rails to Trails, expanding your options, and is designed to be wheelchair accessible, making it truly inclusive. The 8.7-mile (14.1 km) route, with only 56 feet (17 metres) of elevation gain, is rated moderate and typically takes about 1 hour and 26 minutes to complete.

The Erie Canalway Trail offers a captivating journey through history and nature, perfect for a long jog. You'll follow historic canal towpaths and old railway lines, with the surface alternating between smooth asphalt and well-packed crushed stone. Expect picturesque canal vistas, expansive wetlands, and mature forests, with highlights like the Shoreline Trail providing scenic views of Lake Erie and the Bird Island Pier.

This 11.5-mile (18.6 km) route, with a mere 78 feet (24 metres) of elevation gain, is rated difficult primarily due to its length, taking about 1 hour and 54 minutes. It's an excellent option for those seeking a sustained, relatively flat effort rather than steep climbs. Access points are plentiful, and while the trail is open year-round, spring and fall provide the most comfortable conditions for running.

Tracing the route of the historic Erie Canal, an engineering marvel completed in 1825, this trail is part of the larger 360-mile Empire State Trail. It offers a unique blend of recreational activity and historical immersion, connecting charming canal towns and showcasing engineering feats like locks and lift bridges. This section provides a great taste of the trail's diverse character.

The Shoreline Trail – Old Stone Chimney loop from Lamoka Island offers a demanding jogging experience, tracing a path that promises views of the water and a unique historical landmark. This 11.2-mile (18.0 km) loop, with its gentle 253 feet (77 metres) of elevation gain, is rated difficult due to its length and sustained effort, making it ideal for those who enjoy pushing their endurance rather than tackling steep ascents. Expect a consistent, engaging route that allows you to find your rhythm and maintain a steady pace for nearly two hours.

When planning your visit, consider that this is a longer route, taking approximately 1 hour and 52 minutes to complete. While specific trailhead information isn't available, it's wise to arrive prepared with water and appropriate gear for a multi-hour jog. As a loop trail, it offers the convenience of returning to your starting point, and without specific permit requirements mentioned, it likely provides straightforward public access. Always check the local forecast before you go.

This trail stands out as one of the best jogging routes Lamoka Island has to offer for those seeking a significant distance challenge without extreme vertical. Its name suggests a journey along the natural features near Lamoka Island, potentially offering glimpses of the lake and the intriguing Old Stone Chimney. It's a solid choice for experienced joggers looking for a rewarding, long-distance workout in the Niagara Falls region.