Niagara Falls is the most famous landmark of Western New York, with its majestic cascades attracting travelers from many parts of the world. Beyond this wonder of Mother Nature, the region is also proud of its winter spots where alpine adventures are always possible.
Those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of New York’s bustling metropolis can also visit WNY’s charming towns, each offering respite for weary travelers. Meanwhile, those who want to check out off-the-beaten-path attractions are in for a treat because the region is home to some of them. To get the best out of Western New York’s wonders, a hike is an ideal activity.
10 Zoar Valley
Hikers will have fun soaring to sky-high moments in Zoar Valley, where they can appreciate deep gorges and the pristine Cattaraugus Creek.
The area is one of the most scenic and ecologically diverse in Western New York, giving hikers multiple moments to commune with Mother Nature in its waterfalls, forests, and cliffs.
There are at least three trails, with two offering trekkers the chance to cross streams. Whatever route hikers take, they’ll be taken along dense forests and scenic lookouts.
9 Niagara Gorge
Tourists who want to get the most out of their Niagara escapade should hike at least one of its eight trails. For safety reasons, Niagara River Gorge should be trekked from mid-May to November, with those trudging the gorge should be ready for a rugged adventure.
The shortest route is the one-mile American Falls Gorge, while the longest is the 6.2-mile rim trail that offers visitors a chance to visit vistas like the Whirlpool and Devil's Hole rapids. Whatever tourists take, the unmatched beauty of the Niagara River awaits them.
8 Eternal Flame Trail
Chestnut Ridge Park is known for the Eternal Flame Falls, a cascade that seemingly protects a flame. Though it has the word ‘eternal’ in its name, the fire is not always present, so hikers should carry a lighter if they want to see it blazing.
The journey to the said attraction spans 1.4 miles or around 33 minutes. Being an easy hike, it’s a perfect activity for families with young ones. The trip is short but worth it, thanks to the natural gas spring that’s hot and ready.
7 Letchworth State Park Gorge Trail
Letchworth State Park follows the pristine Genesee River and is home to a stunning gorge and waterfalls. The said natural attractions are best enjoyed by embarking on a journey through its almost 14-mile Gorge Trail, appreciating the beauty throughout the over-six-hour trek.
The route follows the waterway until tourists see three majestic waterfalls. Campers are welcome to stay overnight if they want to further appreciate why the gorge is called the “Grand Canyon of the East." Letchworth is indeed worth it.
6 Swallow Hollow Loop
The lush Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge is one big playground for outdoor adventurers, and one trail they can conquer is the 1.3-mile Swallow Hollow Loop. It can be traversed in half an hour, as it should be, so tourists can have more time to appreciate the park’s other attractions.
The route is composed of gravel and dirt paths, plus a boardwalk where birdwatchers can meet new feathered friends. It is a straightforward hiking route, so families with young ones can consider trudging it for a worthwhile outdoor escapade.
5 Delaware Park
Delaware Park is not just for history buffs as it also welcomes hikers who want an oasis in Western New York. There are two easy trails in this destination: the main one and the Hoyt Lake Loop. The latter is a one-mile route that traces the scenic lake, while the former is an almost two-mile path that explores the park.
Both trails can be finished in under an hour, so even the elderly members of the family can have a satisfying stroll.
4 Akron Falls
Akron Falls is a humble destination in the town of Newstead, an easy hike for those who want to chase cascades. The Murder Creek, though it has a grim name, is a place of rest, thanks to its calming waters and the lush surroundings that add to its charm.
The less than a mile trail can be traversed in a jiffy, perfect for non-hikers who still want to commune with Mother Nature, especially with one of its masterpieces, the majestic Akron Falls.
3 Little Rock City Nature Loop Trail
Little Rock City Nature Loop Trail is less than a mile and can be completed in just 15 minutes, yet it's packed with surprises that will impress even kids. It is an outcrop of rocks, with the trailhead welcoming trekkers with a dramatic formation.
The boulders look like they are falling off the plateau, something Instagram-savvy hikers will find spectacular. Tourists will navigate the narrow pathways, scaling some until they finish the loop. Meandering through this natural landmark will leave worthwhile memories.
2 Lockport
The charming city of Lockport is known for its attractions related to the pristine Erie Canal. With this waterway at the town's disposal, outdoor explorers are sure to have a satisfying time meandering through trails.
For quick trips, there’s the 1.6-mile John B. Austin Nature Trail, the almost four-mile Lockport Canal Falls, and the nearly two-mile Wilderness Blue and White Trail Loop.
However, those who want to test their legs should take on the challenge of portions of the 60-mile Erie Canal Heritage Trail that ends in Rochester. Be that as it may, the first three are enough for a fun-filled escapade.
1 Blacksnake Mountain Trail
The lush Allegany State Park is home to at least 15 hiking trails, and tourists just need to get out there to experience its relaxing charm.
One trail to explore is Blacksnake Mountain, a 2.6-mile path that will take over an hour to finish. It loops around a valley and crosses Murray Brook, where tourists can rest and appreciate the surroundings.
One of its landmarks is a marker that shows the line where Pennsylvania and New York meet, and when tourists sit on the concrete, they’ll be in two states at once.