We may be living inside one of New York State’s largest cities, but that doesn’t mean that Buffalonians are completely secluded away from nature! Not only does our city sit out along one of America’s Great Lakes, but we’re also close by to a variety of natural wonders in New York. If you’ve been itching to chase some waterfalls, then it’s time you explore this bucket list that will take you to some of the most breathtaking destinations near the city of Buffalo. Check it out – here are some of the best hikes in Buffalo worth doing over and over:

1. Akron Falls
Akron Falls Park, 44 Parkview Dr, Akron, NY 14001, USA
Ken dox/Google Local
Just about a half-hour away from the Queen City, Akron Falls Park is one of our favorite places to visit here in Western New York when we find ourselves craving some one-on-one time with waterfalls. The park's trails are easy to navigate, bringing you down near the base of the falls to get a gorgeous view of Akron Falls. Cascading 40 feet down along Murder Creek, you'll instantaneously feel like you're in another world when you set your sights on Akron Falls.
2. Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls
Letchworth State Park, New York, USA
zrfphoto via Getty Images
Not one, not two, and not even just three waterfalls await your arrival to Letchworth State Park - there are nearly endless cascades along the Genessee River. The trails here will lead you along the river to the park's three major waterfalls - Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls - making this a great place to spend an entire day hiking. You may even be tempted to bring along your camping gear to extend your visit to this unbelievably beautiful park that's hiding closer to home that you might think.
3. Eternal Flame Falls
Eternal Flame Falls, Eternal Flame Hiking Trail, Orchard Park, NY 14127, USA
jimfeng via Getty Images
The most noteworthy waterfall that you'll find near Buffalo (aside from Niagara, of course), Eternal Flame Falls is an adventure that you'll never forget. The trails leading you out to Eternal Flame Falls aren't too long, but you will need a pair of sturdy shoes or boots to help you navigate this hike! Treking across the rough terrain and exposed tree branches is more than worth the effort, as you'll be in awe as you stand before the only waterfall in New York that has an actual ever-burning flame inside of it. e,

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4. Scoby Dam
Scoby Power Plant and Dam, Near, Springville, NY 14141, USA
8zoran3/Google Local
Only 40 minutes south of Buffalo, Scoby Dam Park may not feature natural waterfalls, but the man-made cascade here is more than worth hiking out to! More of a relaxing stroll than a physically challenging hike, you’ll find plenty of picnic tables and places to relax along the waterfront as you explore these amazing trails.
5. Holley Canal Falls
Holley Canal Falls, 1 Holley Falls Park Rd, Holley, NY 14470, USA
Vanessa Bates/Google Local
Only an hour and a half from Buffalo, Holley Canal Falls is one of the most charming parks that you'll ever visit here in Western New York. The park has a short but sweet trail, most of which is paved, that will lead you straight to Holley Canal Falls. Surrounded by shaded areas and tables, this is the perfect hike to take with if you're looking for a family-friendly adventure that will also bring you to an amazing waterfront picnic spot!
6. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls, NY, USA
Manuel ROMARIS via Getty Images
Did you really think we would make a list of western New York waterfalls and leave out this world wonder? Easily the most famous waterfall in the state (if not the entire country), Buffalo is just a quick drive away from Niagara Falls State Park. During the day you'll find people hiking all around the riverfront and island to check out the spectacular views of the falls, while each and every night you can also find visitors watching the illuminated show that creates an out-of-this-world scene.

Which western New York waterfall is your favorite? Are there any we missed on this list? Let us know in the comments below!

Feeling ready to take on another scenic trail near the Queen City? Then take a look at how this scenic trail in Buffalo is perfect for beginners.

 

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More to Explore

Best Hikes in Buffalo

Tori Jane | July 07, 2022

What are the best hiking trails near me?  

If you live in the Buffalo area, you are in luck: there are loads of amazing hikes and hiking trails in Buffalo, as well as some pretty epic trails near Buffalo, too. Head to Chestnut Ridge County Park and hike the Eternal Flame trail, which is a literal flame that never goes out situated right behind a small waterfall. It’s one of our favorite waterfall hikes in Buffalo, and we think you’ll love it too. Another favorite Buffalo-area trail is, well, any of the trails within Tifft Nature Preserve. It’s a 264-acre slice of paradise and offers some of the best hiking trails in New York – and it’s right here in our backyard!  

Where can I go on easy hikes around Buffalo?  

Well, for one, the above-mentioned Tifft Nature Preserve has the Tifft Nature Preserve Trail, which is rated as easy and is quite short, at just under two miles long. Alternatively, head out to Amherst State Park and do the Glen Falls Trail Loop, a 2.7-mile trek through a wooded area that provides both excellent exercise and quality time outdoors. Be sure to also check out Delaware Park and the trails within; we love the Hoyt Lake Loop, an easy, 1.1-mile adventure around none other than Hoyt Lake, one of the best lakes in New York.  

What are some of the most scenic hikes around Buffalo?  

Every hiking trail in New York is a scenic hike, and the trails around (and in) Buffalo are no exception. The area is intensely beautiful, and it’s a privilege to have access to so many wonderful, scenic hikes in the city. Among our favorite scenic hikes around Buffalo are hidden gems like those at Letchworth State Park, which features many different breathtaking trails all over, ranging in difficulty from easy to challenging. Another favorite place for scenic hikes in Buffalo is the trails at Emery Park, which is home to some of the most splendid hidden waterfalls in New York!  

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