Some of the best nearby areas for scenic hiking include Chestnut Ridge Park, Letchworth State Park, and Niagara Gorge. Chestnut Ridge offers forested trails, ravines, and overlooks just southeast of Buffalo. Letchworth, often called the “Grand Canyon of the East,” is about an hour’s drive and features dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and well-marked routes. The Niagara Gorge trails near Niagara Falls provide rugged paths along the river with impressive views of the gorge and rapids. These locations combine accessibility from Buffalo with a variety of scenic landscapes and difficulty levels.

To match trails to your skill level, review elevation gain, total distance, and surface type for each route. County and state park websites for Erie County, Letchworth State Park, and Niagara Falls State Park publish trail maps and difficulty ratings. Trail apps and websites such as AllTrails and Hiking Project allow you to filter by “easy,” “moderate,” or “hard” and read recent user reviews specific to Buffalo-area trails. When in doubt, start with shorter, well-marked loops in places like Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve or Delaware Park, then progress to steeper routes in Chestnut Ridge or the Niagara Gorge as your fitness and confidence increase.

Family-friendly and beginner hikes around Buffalo are typically found in flatter, well-maintained parks and nature preserves. Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve in Depew has short, level trails with boardwalks and educational signage, making it ideal for children and new hikers. Tifft Nature Preserve near the waterfront offers easy loops through wetlands and meadows close to downtown Buffalo. Delaware Park and the Outer Harbor trails provide paved or crushed-stone paths suitable for strollers and casual walks. When choosing a route, look for loop trails under three miles with minimal elevation change and clear wayfinding signs.

The most popular hiking seasons in the Buffalo area are late spring through fall, generally May to October. Late spring and early summer offer mild temperatures and lush greenery, though some trails can be muddy from snowmelt and rain. Autumn is particularly attractive in places like Chestnut Ridge and Letchworth State Park, where fall foliage creates excellent views. Winter hiking is possible on many trails, but conditions can be icy and cold; traction devices, layered clothing, and shorter routes are recommended. Always check local weather and park advisories before heading out, as conditions along the Niagara Gorge and other river trails can change quickly.

When hiking near gorges, cliffs, and waterfalls around Buffalo, such as in the Niagara Gorge or Letchworth State Park, stay on designated trails and obey all warning signs and railings. Avoid approaching cliff edges or wet rock surfaces, which can be extremely slippery. Wear sturdy footwear with good traction, carry a map or downloaded trail route, and bring water, snacks, and a fully charged phone. Check river and weather conditions in advance, as heavy rain can make trails unstable or lead to rapid water-level changes. Hike with a partner when possible, let someone know your planned route and return time, and keep a safe distance from fast-moving water and steep drop-offs at all times.