The best traffic-free bike rides around Buffalo
4.5
(35)
284
riders
5
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No traffic touring cycling routes around Buffalo benefit from the region's relatively flat terrain and extensive waterfronts along Lake Erie, the Buffalo River, and the Niagara River. The landscape is characterized by a growing network of dedicated bike paths, including historic canal systems and converted railway lines. These features provide accessible and scenic routes for touring cyclists of varying fitness levels.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Buffalo
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Erie Canalway…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
129km
07:30
230m
230m
The Erie Canalway and Iroquois Refuge Loop offers a unique touring bicycle experience, blending historic waterways with diverse natural habitats. You'll start along the Erie Canalway Trail, enjoying canal-side views…
5.0
(3)
40
riders
81.1km
04:34
140m
140m
The Erie Canal view – Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails loop from Amherst Street offers a long, pleasant touring cycling experience, primarily on paved surfaces. You'll follow the historic Erie Canal, enjoying water…
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3.0
(2)
18
riders
The Erie Canalway Trail – Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience, blending historic waterways with scenic river views. You'll pedal along the south side of the Erie…
5.0
(1)
8
riders
The Ellicott Creek Trailway Park – Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails loop from Amherst Street offers a dynamic touring cycling experience, blending smooth asphalt paths along Ellicott Creek with the urban-adjacent routes of…
9
riders
38.3km
02:10
60m
60m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Popular around Buffalo
Tips from the Community
Great place for cycling and dog walking for nature lovers
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A pretty bridge, a nice bike path underneath and if you're lucky you might see a train passing overhead.
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The waterfalls are beautiful! The path is not easy and overgrown. There is a wooden ladder you can use to go down and skip part of the way, but it's not attached to the wall, so be careful.
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The Amherst Canalway Trail offers a peaceful, paved route perfect for walking, biking, or rollerblading along the historic Erie Canal. Stretching about eleven miles, it connects Tonawanda to Amherst and showcases scenic views, parks, and local history just outside Buffalo.
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Here you have a small but pleasant park space perfect for a break.
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The UB Path Bridge, officially known as the Ralph Wilson Park Bridge, is a striking new pedestrian and cyclist crossing in Buffalo, New York. Spanning 266 feet over Interstate 190 and a CSX rail line, the enclosed steel arch bridge connects the Lower West Side neighborhood to the revitalized 100-acre Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park, formerly LaSalle Park.
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This little point looks out over the outlet of Tonawanda Creek, where it first merges into the Little River and then, together, the two waters merge into the Tonawanda Channel of the Niagara River. From here you have your choice of two different riverwalks: The Eerie Canalway Trail to the east, which runs upstream along Tonawanda Creek; and the Shoreline Trail which runs southwest along the Niagara River.
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Very near one end of the Empire State Trail, this repair station will help you get your bike right before you set off on your adventure. Or, to fix up anything that needs a tune up after finishing a tour.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Buffalo?
Komoot offers a selection of 5 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Buffalo. These routes vary in difficulty, with one easy, three moderate, and one difficult option, ensuring there's something for every skill level.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these traffic-free cycling routes in Buffalo?
Buffalo's traffic-free routes offer a diverse range of landscapes. You'll experience scenic waterfront views along Lake Erie and the Niagara River, explore historic canal systems like the Erie Canalway, and ride through revitalized urban green spaces and nature preserves. Many routes utilize former railway lines, providing flat, easy rides through varied terrain.
Are there any family-friendly, easy no-traffic routes for touring cyclists?
Yes, for families or those seeking an easier ride, the Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails – Erie Canalway Trail loop from Amherst Street is an excellent choice. This 28 km (17.4 miles) route is rated as easy and offers a pleasant, traffic-free experience, perfect for a relaxed day out.
What are some of the longer, more challenging no-traffic touring routes in the Buffalo area?
For a more challenging, longer ride, consider the Erie Canalway and Iroquois Refuge Loop. This route spans approximately 129 km (80 miles) and is rated as difficult, offering a substantial touring experience through varied landscapes.
Can I find routes that combine rail trails with other scenic paths?
Absolutely. Several routes in Buffalo cleverly combine different trail types. For instance, the Erie Canal view – Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails loop from Amherst Street integrates the historic Erie Canalway with the popular Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails, offering a diverse and engaging ride.
What attractions or points of interest can I see along these routes?
Many routes offer views of Buffalo's unique attractions. You might pass by the South Grand Island Bridge, enjoy waterfront vistas from Wilkeson Point, or cycle near the vibrant Canalside Boardwalk. The region's extensive waterfronts along Lake Erie and the Niagara River also provide stunning natural scenery.
Are there any routes that offer views of the Niagara River?
Yes, routes like the South Grand Island Bridge – Isle View Park loop from LaSalle provide excellent opportunities to cycle alongside the Niagara River, offering picturesque views and a sense of connection to the broader Niagara River Greenway.
What is the best time of year to enjoy no-traffic touring cycling in Buffalo?
The best time for touring cycling in Buffalo is typically from spring through fall. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural scenery. While some trails may be accessible in winter, conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice, so it's best to check local trail conditions beforehand.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the no-traffic routes in Buffalo?
The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic touring cycling routes around Buffalo, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 32 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained, car-free paths, the beautiful waterfront views, and the opportunity to explore Buffalo's natural and historical sites in a peaceful setting.
Are there any routes that explore the Ellicott Creek area?
Yes, the Ellicott Creek Trailway Park – Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails loop from Amherst Street is a moderate 56 km (34.8 miles) route that takes you through the scenic Ellicott Creek Trailway Park, connecting it with the Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails for a varied cycling experience.
Are these routes suitable for different fitness levels?
Yes, the selection of routes caters to various fitness levels. You'll find easy options perfect for beginners or a leisurely ride, moderate routes for those looking for a bit more distance and challenge, and a difficult route for experienced touring cyclists seeking a longer adventure.
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