SHORELINE TRAIL:

IRVING-BUFFALO-YOUNGSTOWN, NEW YORK

-BIKE IT OR HIKE IT-

Last Updated:       December 30, 2024

Length:                 Shoreline Trail: Beaches Section; 2.8 of 11.5 miles complete.

                               Shoreline Trail: Sunset View Section; 3 of 4 miles complete.

                               Shoreline Trail: Industrial Heritage Section; West Side; 3.5 miles. 

                               Shoreline Trail: Industrial Heritage Section; East Side; 4 miles.

                               Shoreline Trail: Industrial Heritage Section:

                               Union Ship Canal Loop; 1 mile Loop.

                               Buffalo Harbor State Park Breakwall Trail; 0.7 miles.

                               Wellness Trail/Greenway Nature Trail Loop; 1.7 miles.

                               Wilkeson Pointe Loop; 3.5 mile Loop.

                               Shoreline Trail: Greenway Headwaters Section [South Buffalo to Canalside Buffalo]; 3.7 miles.

                               Shoreline Trail; Greenway Headwaters & Upper River Sections; Riverwalk Section: 14.3 miles with some BIKE LANES.

                               Shoreline Trail: Grand Island:

                                                        I-190 South Bridge Section; 1 mile.

                                                        I-190 North Bridge Section; 1.8 miles.

                                                        South Parkway Section; 4.6 miles.

                                                        West River Shoreline Trail; 8 miles.

                               Shoreline Trail; Greenway Upper River; Niagara River Greenway Section: 9.1 of 13 miles complete.

                               Shoreline Trail; Greenway Upper River; Niagara River Greenway Section:

                               Griffon Park Loop Trail; 0.5 mile Loop.

                               Niagara Falls Downtown Trail; 1.2 miles.

                               Goat Island Loop; 2.5 mile Loop.

                               Great Gorge Railway Trail; 1.2 miles crushed stone.

                               Shoreline Trail; Greenway Lower River; Niagara Scenic Parkway Trail: 11.8 of 14.9 miles complete.

Difficulty:            Easy. Flat paved trails. 

Directions:     

To Start from the Bennett Beach parking lot for the Shoreline Trail; Beaches Section in Angola [Southern End]; From I-90 take exit 57A to Eden Evans Center Rd and head west for 3.6 miles. Continue straight on Beach Rd to the end then head right on Lakeshore Rd. Travel 0.7 miles to Bennett Rd. Parking lot is on your left. 

To Start from the Hamburg Skate Park parking lot for the Shoreline Trail; Sunset View Section in Woodlawn [Southern End]; From Buffalo take Route 5 south to Bayview Rd and turn right. Parking lot is on your left.

To Start from the Union Ship Canal parking lot for the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section in South Buffalo [Southern End]; From Buffalo take Route 5 south to the Tifft St/Fuhrmann Blvd exit and turn right on Tifft St then left on Fuhrmann Blvd. Follow underneath Route 5 and the parking lot is on your right.

To start from the Niawanda Park/Two Mile Creek Greenway parking lot for the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Headwaters Section in Tonawanda [Central Section]; From I-190 take exit 17 to River Rd and head right. Travel 1.2 miles and turn left just after crossing 2 Mile Creek and where the trail crosses the road.

To Start from the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center  parking lot for the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Upper & Lower River Sections in Niagara Falls [Northern Section]; From I-190 take exit 23 to Packard Rd west 1.4 miles. Head right on Route 62 (Walnut Ave) to Main St and turn left. Turn right onto Robert Moses Pkwy and the parking lot will be on your left.  

To Start from the Kiwanis Park parking lot for the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Lower River Section in Lewiston [Northern Section]; From I-190 take exit 25B to Route 104 (Lewiston Rd). Exit to Route 104 (Center St) west. Take your first right on n 9th St to Mohawk St and turn right. Take a quick left on Garden St, stay straight on Oxbow St and the parking lot is on your right.

Unfortunately there is no single web site that accurately describes this trail and stays up to date. The SHORELINE TRAIL site has not been updated since 2019. 

The Shoreline Trail is a planned continuous multi-use pathway along Lake Erie and the Niagara River, within both Erie and Niagara Counties. The Shoreline Trail is divided into 5 Sections: From the South heading North: 

Shoreline Trail; Beaches Section [Southern End]: Follows Lake Erie North, through Brant & Evans.

Shoreline Trail; Sunset View Section [Southern Section]: Follows Lake Erie North, through Hamburg, Woodlawn & Lackawanna.

Shoreline Trail; Greenway Headwaters Section [Central Section]: Follows Lake Erie & the Niagara River North, through Buffalo. 

The Southern Buffalo Section, along Lake Erie and the Outer Harbor & the Buffalo River, is referred to as the Industrial Heritage Section.

The Northern Buffalo Section, along the Niagara River, is referred to as the Riverwalk Section up to Tonawanda. Also part of the Empire State Trail & Erie Canalway Trail; Rochester-Buffalo .

Shoreline Trail; Greenway Upper River Section [Northern Section]: Follows the Niagara River North, around Grand Island, through Tonawanda, North Tonawanda, Wheatfield & Niagara Falls.

The Tonawanda Section is also part of the Empire State Trail & Erie Canalway Trail; Rochester-Buffalo .

 North of Tonawanda, the trail follows the Niagara River Greenway. 

Shoreline Trail; Greenway Lower River Section [Northern End]: Follows the Niagara River North, through Niagara Falls, Lewiston & Porter to Lake Ontario.

In Niagara Falls, the trail follows the Niagara River Greenway. North of Niagara Falls, the trail follows the Niagara Scenic Parkway Trail.

 For more information visit; SHORELINE TRAIL , NIAGARA RIVER GREENWAY , TRAILLINK; ROBERT MOSES RECREATIONAL TRAIL , ERIE CANALWAY and GO BIKE BUFFALO .

The Empire State Trail is a continuous 750-mile route spanning the state from New York City North, to Canada and Buffalo East, to Albany, creating the longest multi-use state trail in the nation.

SHORELINE TRAIL; BEACHES SECTION:

[Southern End]

I haven't checked out this section

Starting from the entrance of Evangola State Park Campground, Camp Loop Road & Lakeshore Road in Irving [Southern End]; The paved Shoreline Trail; Beaches Section travels North, alongside Lakeshore Rd to Evangola State Park Rd. You'll cross a small covered bridge before coming to the main entrance for EVANGOLA STATE PARK after 0.5 miles.

Note; Heading left, West, will bring you to the park where you'll find a beach, restrooms, playground...

Currently a Gap exists North, as of 2024. Phase 5 will construct a trail alongside Lake Shore Rd, connecting Evangola State Park North, to Lake Erie Beach Park.

Continuing North, on-road, along Lakeshore Rd (narrow shoulder) you'll cross Muddy Creek, before coming to the entrance to Lake Erie Beach Park at 1.9 miles. 

Currently a Gap exists North, as of 2024. The upcoming installation of the Shoreline Trail: Beaches Section is occurring in multiple phases along 3 miles of the Lake Shore Rd right-of-way, connecting Lake Erie Beach Park, Evans Town Park and Bennett Beach County Park with a six feet wide pedestrian and bicycle roadside asphalt pathway. See; Map Below. 

 

Continuing North, from Lake Erie Beach Park, travel on-road along Lake Shore Dr, passing by Point Breeze Beach, before coming to Evans Town Park at 3.6 miles in Evans. 

Phase 2 will construct a trail alongside Lake Shore Rd, connecting Evans Town Park North, to Bennett Beach Park. 

Continuing North, on-road along Lakeshore Rd, you come to the intersection with Lake St. Head left along Lakeshore Rd (no shoulder). You'll come to Bennett Rd and the entrance to Bennett Beach parking lot on your left at 5 miles. Here you'll pick up the wide paved Shoreline Trail; Beaches Section that travels North, alongside Shoreline Rd. Come to Shell Rd (at the curve) at 6.1 miles where the trail enters the woods. Map Board. A boardwalk takes you out towards Lake Erie where you'll pick up a paved trail brings you to Wendt Beach County Park. The trail then travels East, along the entrance road out to Lakeshore Rd at about 6.9 miles. Here the 2 Way SEPARATED BIKE LANE travels North, along the Eastern Side of Lakeshore Rd. Come to Sturgeon Point Rd where the trail currently ends, as of April 2023, at about 7.3 miles. Map Board.

Note; Left, West, on-road along Sturgeon Point Rd, will bring you to the entrance for the Sturgeon Point Nature Trail after 0.5 miles.

Phase 3B will construct a trail alongside Lake Shore Rd, North, 4 miles to 18 Mile Creek.

Continuing North, on-road along Lakeshore Rd, you quickly pass by the Sturgeon Point Historical Lighthouse. The road now turns Northeast, at 8.3 miles. You'll pass by the Eighteen Mile Creek Park parking lot at 11.5 miles, before crossing over Eighteen Mile Creek to Lake View, in Hamburg.

Currently a Gap exists North, to Woodlawn, as of July 2022. I haven't seen any plans for this section of the trail.

SHORELINE TRAIL; SUNSET VIEW SECTION:

[Southern Section]

Hamburg Section:

Currently a Gap exists through Hamburg, as of 2024. I haven't seen any plans for this section of the trail.

Woodlawn Section:

Starting from Hamburg Skate Park in Woodlawn [Southern End]; [Re-zeroing Mileage] I haven't checked out this section. Exit the parking lot to Bayview Rd and head left along the paved Shoreline Trail; Sunset View Section. Follow to Hoover Rd and head right. Come to Lake Erie Blvd where the trail continues left, along Hoover Rd utilizing a BIKE LANE. The paved trail resumes as you travel North alongside Route 5 at 0.4 miles. Come to a traffic circle and the entrance to Woodlawn SP at 0.8 miles. Pass by a pedestrian bridge over Route 5 before coming to 7th St at 1.5 miles where the trail currently ends. 

Currently, as of 2024, a 1 mile Gap exists North to Dona Street. This section will travel through the future redevelopment of the former Bethlehem Steel site.

Continuing North, on-road along Route 5, a wide shoulder is available until you approach the Lackawanna town line and the industrial corridor at 1.6 miles. Here it's all on-road and narrow. This is the old Bethlehem Steel property which is undergoing redevelopment. 

Lackawanna Section:

You pick up a shoulder after Adams St at 2.3 miles before crossing Smoke Creek. RR tracks to your left. Pass by Dona Street on your right at 2.5 miles where you'll pick up the Shoreline Trail; Sunset View Section again. I haven't checked out this section. This paved section parallels Route 5 North. Cross Ridge Rd at 3.4 miles.

Note; A BIKE LANE/BIKE SHARROWS follows Ridge Rd East. After 1 mile you pass by the entrance for South Park and a parking lot and come to South Park Ave at 1.4 miles. Left up South Park Ave will bring you to the BUFFALO BOTANICAL GARDENS in South Park.

Continuing North alongside Fuhrmann Blvd you come to the South Side of the Union Ship Canal at 4 miles.

SHORELINE TRAIL; GREENWAY HEADWATERS SECTION:

[Central Section]

The Shoreline Trail; Greenway Headwaters Section is divided into 3 Sections. All 3 Sections start from the Union Ship Canal in South Buffalo and utilize some of the same routes.

SHORELINE TRAIL; INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE SECTION; WEST SIDE:

[Travels along the West Side of Route 5]

Starting from the South Side of the Union Ship Canal in South Buffalo [Re-zeroing Mileage]; I've checked out this section. 

Note; Right, East, takes you along a boardwalk on the Union Ship Canal Loop. Travel underneath Route 5 to an intersection. The Inner Loop follows a brick lined trail alongside the South Side of the Canal. The Outer Loop is a paved trail that travels further out around the Canal and the route I took. Pass by parking lots and a pedestrian bridge that crosses over the Canal. Continue straight where the trail Loops North, around the head of the Canal past an old industrial foundry ladle. Right leads to the Ship Canal Pkwy parking lot. You now travel West, back along the North Side of the Canal, passing by the Union Ship Canal parking lot next to Laborers Way. Keep left to a boardwalk that takes you back underneath Route 5 bringing you to the North Side of the Union Ship Canal after a 1 mile Loop. 

The Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; West Side crosses an iron pedestrian bridge over the Canal to the North Side. Lots of informational signs located along this section of trail. 

Note; The Union Ship Canal Loop travels right, East from here. See Above.

Cross Fuhrmann Blvd where the paved trail travels North, between Fuhrmann Blvd and below Route 5. Pass by a pedestrian tunnel underneath Route 5 that leads to Laborers Way. Cross Tifft St at 0.4 miles and you'll come to the Tifft Street Pier. 

Note; Right, East, a paved trail takes you underneath Route 5 [South Buffalo] to the Tifft Street Bike Path. A paved path that travels East, alongside Tifft St to the George Harman Sports Fields. A narrow BIKE LANE then continues over multiple RR tracks out to Hopkins St at 1.3 miles.

Note; Right a paved trail takes you East underneath Route 5 [South Buffalo] and brings you to the start of the paved Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; East Side that travels North, along the East Side of Route 5 to Buffalo & Canalside. See Below.

Either continue straight, North, along the paved Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; West Side or left along the boardwalk past the pier as both routes rejoin ahead. You continue alongside Fuhrmann Blvd passing by the Gallagher Beach parking lot where the paved trail continues and a boardwalk now travels above the beach. Pass by Gallagher Pier (pavilions) and a boat launch where both trails converge as you come to Buffalo Harbor State Park at 0.9 miles. This is the official start of the Erie Canalway Trail; Rochester-Buffalo and Empire State Trail . 

Note; Left, West, takes you along the paved Buffalo Harbor State Park Breakwall Trail around the park, which contains picnic pavilions, playgrounds and restrooms. I haven't checked out this section. The trail travels North, along the Outer Harbor Turning Basin, bringing you to an *Intersection at 0.4 miles. Straight follows a causeway between the Outer Harbor Turning Basin and Sun Life Marina ending at 0.7 miles. From the *Intersection the trail travels East, past the Sun Life Marina back to the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; West Side after 0.5 miles.

Continuing straight, North, past Buffalo Harbor State Park you cross the Park's entrance road.

Note; Right, East, a paved trail takes you underneath Route 5 [Tifft Nature Preserve] to the TIFFT NATURE PRESERVE , as well as, the paved Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; East Side.

Continuing straight, North, you come to an intersection.

Note; Left, West, leads to the Buffalo Harbor State Park Loop Trail. See Above.

Continue straight, North, alongside Fuhrmann Blvd and past the Sun Life Marina. Come to a Map Board and Ohio Street at 1.5 miles.

Note; Right, East, a paved trail takes you underneath Route 5 [Old First Ward] to the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; East Side. This is also where the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Headwaters Section & Empire State Trail travel North, to Buffalo's Canalside. To reach Canalside in Buffalo you'll need to follow this route, otherwise you'll have to take the Queen City Bike Ferry at the Northern End of the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; West Side. Be sure to check its hours of operation. QUEEN CITY BIKE FERRY . 

Continuing straight, North, alongside Fuhrmann Blvd on the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; West Side you'll pass by old industrial buildings along your left. The paved trail turns to pavers at 1.8 miles.

Note; Right the paved Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; East Side picks up again and takes you underneath Route 5, then left, North. 

Continuing straight, North, alongside Fuhrmann Blvd and some old RR tracks you come to a paved trail on your left next to the REDDY BIKE SHARE . 

Note; This trail leads into the LAKESIDE BIKE PARK . This park offers 3 mountain bike tracks for riders of all skill levels and ages, as well as a pump track, skills loop and tot track for little ones! Bring your own bike or rent one. I haven't checked out this park yet.

Note; From here you can access the Wellness Trail/Greenway Nature Trail. Heading left, West, into Lakeside Bike Park, you travel through a tunnel to the Great Lawn/Outer Harbor Concert Stage, keeping left. At the next intersection you continue left, then straight, coming to the Wellness Trail/Greenway Nature Trail next to Outer Harbor Middle Channel after 0.3 miles. 

Note; Left, South, leads to the Terminal B Music Venue.

Head right, North, along the water, traveling around the Bell Slip back to the Channel. Pass by the Outer Harbor DIY Skatepark on your right. You now pass by open fields before coming to an inlet, where the trail turns right back to the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; West Side next to Fuhrmann Blvd after 1.7 miles.

Continuing straight, North, alongside Fuhrmann Blvd you pass a sculpture for the Industrial Heritage Trail before passing by the road entrance for the Lakeside Bike Park. 

Note; To your right, East, is where the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; East Side returns from underneath Route 5 [City Ship Canal].

Continuing North, you pass by the Outer Harbor Skate Park on your left, before crossing Outer Harbor Dr. To your right, East, is another tunnel underneath Route 5 [City Ship Canal]. Next come to an intersection where Route 5 (Buffalo Skyway) is now an elevated highway.

Note; To your right, East, is where the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; East Side continues underneath Route 5.

Next you come to an inlet and trail intersection at 3.2 miles.

Note; This is where the Wellness Trail/Greenway Nature Trail rejoins the trail from your left, West. See Above.

Travel past the inlet and come to another intersection. This is just before S Michigan Ave.

Note; To your right, East, is where the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; East Side emerges from underneath Route 5.

Continuing North alongside Fuhrmann Blvd you pass by Wilkeson Pointe.

Note; Left, West, a paved trail takes you along the Wilkeson Pointe Loop. Pass by some restrooms, a water fountain, kayak launch and a parking lot before the trail splits. Following the Outer Trail you travel past gardens and sculptures before coming to the point overlooking the Outer Harbor. The trail then Loops back, East, turning left, North, past beach volleyball courts and finally right back out to the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; West Side for a 0.5 mile Loop.

Continuing North, alongside Fuhrmann Blvd, you pass by where the Wilkeson Pointe Loop rejoins the trail. Here, you'll also find the entrance to the Times Beach Nature Preserve, which contains stone-dust walking paths. The trail briefly utilizes a boardwalk past the nature preserve before ending in front of the entrance for the US Coast Guard after 3.5 miles. 

Note; Here you'll find a 0.3 mile walking trail that leads West, out to the Buffalo Lighthouse. 

Note; Right, East, a paved trail brings you to the Queen City Bike Ferry. To connect to Canalside in Buffalo, as well as, the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Headwaters Section, Canalway Trail & Empire State Trail  you'll need to take the Queen City Bike Ferry across the Buffalo River to the Commercial Slip, right next to the Buffalo & Erie County Navel & Military Park. Be sure to check its hours of operation. QUEEN CITY BIKE FERRY .  

The Commercial Slip was a remnant of Little Buffalo Creek, which flowed into the Buffalo River just before the larger stream entered Lake Erie. The Commercial Slip formed one boundary of Buffalo's infamous Canal District, and was filled in when the district was marked for urban renewal in the 1950s. The Erie Canal Redevelopment project unearthed building foundations from the Canal-era neighborhood and restored the Commercial Slip. 

SHORELINE TRAIL; INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE SECTION; EAST SIDE:

[Travels along the East Side of Route 5, but utilizes sections of the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; West Side]

Starting from the South Side of the Union Ship Canal in South Buffalo [Re-zeroing Mileage]; I've checked out this section. 

Note; Right, East, takes you along a boardwalk on the Union Ship Canal Loop. Travel underneath Route 5 to an intersection. The Inner Loop follows a brick lined trail alongside the South Side of the Canal. The Outer Loop is a paved trail that travels further out around the Canal and the route I took. Pass by parking lots and a pedestrian bridge that crosses over the Canal. Continue straight where the trail Loops North around the head of the Canal past an old industrial foundry ladle. Right leads to the Ship Canal Pkwy parking lot. You now travel West, back along the North Side of the Canal, passing by the Union Ship Canal parking lot next to Laborers Way. Keep left to a boardwalk that takes you back underneath Route 5 bringing you to the North Side of the Union Ship Canal after a 1 mile Loop. 

The Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; West Side crosses an iron pedestrian bridge over the Canal to the North Side. Lots of informational signs located along this section of trail. Head right, East, underneath Route 5 along Laborers Way, then continue left, North, past the Union Ship Canal parking lot. This is the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; East Side. Soon the trail heads left, West, back underneath Route 5 to the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; West Side, where you continue right, North, traveling between Fuhrmann Blvd and below Route 5. Cross Tifft St and head right, East, back underneath Route 5 [South Buffalo] returning to the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; East Side after 0.7 miles. Continue North, passing by the TIFFT NATURE PRESERVE . Come to Ohio Street at 1.7 miles. 

Note; This is also where the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Headwaters Section & Empire State Trail travel right, North, along Ohio Street to Buffalo's Canalside. To reach Canalside in Buffalo you'll need to follow this route, otherwise you'll have to take the Queen City Bike Ferry at the Northern End of the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; West Side. Be sure to check its hours of operation. QUEEN CITY BIKE FERRY . 

Travel left, West, underneath Route 5 [Old First Ward] back to the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; West Side. Here you'll find the entrance to Buffalo Harbor State Park. Head right, North, alongside Fuhrmann Blvd passing by old industrial buildings along your left. The paved trail turns to pavers at 2 miles. Head right, East, back underneath Route 5 where the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; East Side continues left, North, above an old rail bed and the Buffalo River Ship Canal on your right before traveling back underneath Route 5 [City Ship Canal] and returning to the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; West Side after 2.5 miles. Here you'll find the entrance to LAKESIDE BIKE PARK . This park offers 3 mountain bike tracks for riders of all skill levels and ages, as well as a pump track, skills loop and tot track for little ones! Bring your own bike or rent one. I haven't checked out this park yet. Continue right, North, alongside Fuhrmann Blvd passing by the Outer Harbor Skate Park before crossing Outer Harbor Dr. Next come to an intersection where Route 5 (Buffalo Skyway) is now an elevated highway. Travel right, East, underneath the elevated Route 5 at 3.2 miles back along the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; East Side. I haven't checked out this section. 

Note; Right, South, the trail travels just a short distance before ending. 

Head left, North, where the trail travels past RCR Yachts and the Buffalo Ship Canal. Just before S Michigan Ave turn left, West, back underneath Route 5 to the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; West Side at 3.4 miles. Continue right, North, alongside Fuhrmann Blvd passing by Wilkeson Pointe.

Note; Left, West, a paved trail takes you along the Wilkeson Pointe Loop. Pass by some restrooms, a water fountain, kayak launch and a parking lot before the trail splits. Following the Outer Trail you travel past gardens and sculptures before coming to the point overlooking the Outer Harbor. The trail then Loops back, East, turning left North, past beach volleyball courts and finally right back out to the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; West Side for a 0.5 mile Loop.

Continuing North, alongside Fuhrmann Blvd you pass by where the Wilkeson Pointe Loop rejoins the trail. Here you'll also find the entrance to the Times Beach Nature Preserve which contains stone-dust walking paths. The trail briefly utilizes a boardwalk past the nature preserve before ending in front of the entrance for the US Coast Guard after 4 miles. 

Note; Here you'll find a 0.3 mile walking trail that leads West, out to the Buffalo Lighthouse. 

Note; Right, East, a paved trail brings you to the Queen City Bike Ferry. To connect to Canalside in Buffalo, as well as, the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Headwaters Section, Canalway Trail & Empire State Trail  you'll need to take the Queen City Bike Ferry across the Buffalo River to the Commercial Slip, right next to the Buffalo & Erie County Navel & Military Park. Be sure to check its hours of operation. QUEEN CITY BIKE FERRY .  

The Commercial Slip was a remnant of Little Buffalo Creek, which flowed into the Buffalo River just before the larger stream entered Lake Erie. The Commercial Slip formed one boundary of Buffalo's infamous Canal District, and was filled in when the district was marked for urban renewal in the 1950s. The Erie Canal Redevelopment project unearthed building foundations from the Canal-era neighborhood and restored the Commercial Slip. 

SHORELINE TRAIL; GREENWAY HEADWATERS SECTION:

[South Buffalo to Canalside in Buffalo]

[Follows along the East Side of Route 5 to Buffalo Harbor State Park in South Buffalo, then turns inland along the East Side of the Buffalo River to Canalside in Buffalo]

Starting from the South Side of the Union Ship Canal in South Buffalo [Re-zeroing Mileage]; I've checked out this section. 

Note; Right, East, takes you along a boardwalk on the Union Ship Canal Loop. Travel underneath Route 5 to an intersection. The Inner Loop follows a brick lined trail alongside the South Side of the Canal. The Outer Loop is a paved trail that travels further out around the Canal and the route I took. Pass by parking lots and a pedestrian bridge that crosses over the Canal. Continue straight where the trail Loops North, around the head of the Canal, past an old industrial foundry ladle. Right leads to the Ship Canal Pkwy parking lot. You now travel West, back along the North Side of the Canal, passing by the Union Ship Canal parking lot next to Laborers Way. Keep left to a boardwalk that takes you back underneath Route 5 bringing you to the North Side of the Union Ship Canal after a 1 mile Loop. 

The Shoreline Trail; Greenway Headwaters Section crosses an iron pedestrian bridge over the Canal to the North Side. Lots of informational signs located along this section of trail. 

Note; The Union Ship Canal Loop travels right, East from here. See Above.

Cross Fuhrmann Blvd where the paved trail travels North, between Fuhrmann Blvd and below Route 5. Pass by a pedestrian tunnel underneath Route 5 that leads to Laborers Way. Cross Tifft St at 0.4 miles and you'll come to the Tifft Street Pier. 

Note; Right, East, a paved trail takes you underneath Route 5 [South Buffalo] to the Tifft Street Bike Path. A paved path that travels East, alongside Tifft St to the George Harman Sports Fields. A narrow BIKE LANE then continues over multiple RR tracks out to Hopkins St at 1.3 miles.

Note; Right, East, a paved trail takes you underneath Route 5 [South Buffalo] and brings you to the start of the paved Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; East Side that travels North, along the East Side of Route 5 to Buffalo & Canalside. See Below.

Either continue straight, North, along the paved Shoreline Trail; Greenway Headwaters Section or left along the boardwalk past the pier as both routes rejoin ahead. You continue alongside Fuhrmann Blvd passing by the Gallagher Beach parking lot where the paved trail continues and a boardwalk now travels above the beach. Pass by Gallagher Pier (pavilions) and a boat launch where both trails converge as you come to Buffalo Harbor State Park at 0.9 miles. This is the official start of the Erie Canalway Trail; Rochester-Buffalo and Empire State Trail . 

Note; Left, West, takes you along the paved Buffalo Harbor State Park Breakwall Trail around the park which contains picnic pavilions, playgrounds and restrooms. I haven't checked out this section. The trail travels North, along the Outer Harbor Turning Basin bringing you to an *Intersection at 0.4 miles. Straight follows a causeway between the Outer Harbor Turning Basin and Sun Life Marina ending at 0.7 miles. From the *Intersection the trail travels East, past the Sun Life Marina back to the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; West Side after 0.5 miles.

Continuing straight, North, past Buffalo Harbor State Park you cross the Park's entrance road.

Note; Right, East, a paved trail takes you underneath Route 5 [Tifft Nature Preserve] to the TIFFT NATURE PRESERVE , as well as, the paved Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; East Side.

Continuing straight, North, you come to an intersection.

Note; Left, West, leads to the Buffalo Harbor State Park Loop Trail. See Above.

Continue straight, North, alongside Fuhrmann Blvd and past the Sun Life Marina. Come to a Map Board and Ohio Street at 1.5 miles. Travel right, East, underneath Route 5 [Old First Ward] and you'll come to the Shoreline Trail; Industrial Heritage Section; East Side. I haven't checked out this next section. The paved Shoreline Trail; Greenway Headwaters Section continues North, alongside Ohio Street, crossing over the Ohio Street Rail Yards. Industrial corridor. Cross the Ohio Street Bridge at 2.2 miles over the Buffalo River, before passing by the Ohio Street Kayak Launch Park on your left and Conway Park on your right. The trail turns into a double wide sidewalk before passing by Buffalo River Fest Park. Come to Michigan Ave at 3 miles. Spot a Map Board across the street. I've checked out this section. The trail now continues straight (follow the signs) past the red Edward M Cotter fire boat. Here the trail follows alongside the Buffalo River traveling Northwest, bringing you to an intersection just below the Buffalo Skyway at 3.4 miles. Map Board.

Note; Straight brings you to the Commercial Slip at Inner Harbor and Canalside.

Head right, North, where the trail travels alongside Main St and the Light Rail tracks to Marine Dr.

Note; Straight leads to the Erie Canal Harbor Station on the NFTA METRO .

Continue left, East, following a BIKE LANE along Marine Drive to Commercial Street at 3.7 miles. Canalside in Buffalo.

Note; CANALSIDE is located to both your right and left. To your right, North, the Canal has a freezing system that was built to replicate historic Canals. The Canals have water in the spring and summer and ice in the winter for skating and ice biking. Paths, bridges and walkways encircle this Canal. The CHILDREN'S MUSEUM is located here. To your left, South, next to the Commercial Slip, is the excavation site of the original Steamship Hotel building foundations, which are presented alongside several interpretive exhibits showcasing the historical significance of the Erie Canal. Just past these exhibits you'll come to a Bowstring Truss Bridge over the Commercial Slip at Inner Harbor. This area is the 1825 terminus of the original Erie Canal.  

Note; Left, Southwest, along the Commercial Slip brings you to the BUFFALO & ERIE COUNTY NAVEL & MILITARY PARK which features the USS Little Rock & USS The Sulllivans, a submarine, along with various aircraft. A paved path then travels West, through Veterans Park and alongside the Buffalo River, before turning North, bringing you to the Erie Basin Marina Observation Deck after 1 mile. 

SHORELINE TRAIL; GREENWAY HEADWATERS SECTION:

[Central Section]

SHORELINE TRAIL; RIVERWALK SECTION:

[Canalside Buffalo North along the Niagara River to Tonawanda]

Starting from Marine Drive & Commercial Street in Canalside in Buffalo; [Continuing Mileage] [Also part of the Empire State Trail & Erie Canalway Trail; Rochester-Buffalo ]The Shoreline Trail; Greenway Headwaters/Riverwalk Section travels North, up Commercial St along a BIKE LANE that takes you underneath the Buffalo Skyway to Perry Blvd and Pearl St. 

Note; The Pearl Street BIKE LANE continues North, to Downtown Buffalo.

Turn left, Northeast, along Perry Blvd (BIKE LANE) along  to Erie St where you pick up the paved trail on your left. Follow it to a crosswalk where the paved trail now travels alongside Lakefront Blvd at 4.3 miles. The trail travels alongside some RR tracks just below I-190 before crossing Lakefront Blvd again at 5 miles. Cross a field and you'll come alongside the Black Rock Canal and Niagara River. To your left is the entrance to the Black Rock Canal. Here the trail travels through La Salle Park next to the River. You follow alongside Amvets Dr passing picnic shelters, sports fields, a Dog Park and a playground, along with parking. Come to Porter Ave at 6 miles where the trail turns inland along the road. Pass by the Buffalo Yacht Club and turn left passing by Frank Lloyd Wright's Fontana Boathouse and the West Side Rowing Club before returning alongside the Black Rock Canal and Niagara River. Soon a ramp brings you up to a a pedestrian bridge where you'll find an overlook of the Black Rock Canal and Niagara River. You then cross over I-190 and some RR tracks before heading left underneath the Peace Bridge and alongside Busti Ave where you'll pick up a 2-Way Separated BIKE LANE a 7 miles. This 2-Way Separated BIKE LANE travels North, along Niagara St to Robert Rich Way on your left, at *7.5 miles.

From Robert Rich Way you have 2 Options:

I haven't checked out this section.

Option A: Continue following the Shoreline Trail; Riverwalk Section via the 2-Way SEPARATED BIKE LANE North, along Niagara St. Travel underneath the Scajaquada Pkwy and you'll pass by an entrance for the Western End of the Jesse Kregal Pathway on your left at 4.7 miles. As you travel over Scajaquada Creek look left to spot a RR bridge. Come to the **Unity Island Bridge Ramp on your left after 1.3 miles. *[8.8 miles]. Right is Bridge St.

Note; The **Unity Island Bridge Ramp leads up to an ***Intersection. Right is the Western End of the Jesse Kregal Pathway which follows Scajaquada Creek East, out to Delaware Park.

Option B: Travel left, West, along the Shoreline Trail; Unity Island/Broderick Park Section down Robert Rich Way (BIKE LANE) and underneath I-190 and across the Black Rock Canal Drawbridge over the Black Rock Canal to Unity Island. This brings you to the Broderick Park parking lot. The Black Rock Ferry was located here and traversed the river to Fort Erie from 1825 until the 20th Century. The dock was used as part of the Underground Railroad.

Note; Continue left, South, to check out Broderick Park and Bird Island Pier, which forms the stone break for the Black Rock Canal. The pier is a 4' Walkway atop the stone break that travels 1.2 miles traveling underneath the Peace Bridge.

The Shoreline Trail; Unity Island/Broderick Park Section continues right, North, along the Western Side of Unity Island and the Niagara River. Pass by the sewage treatment plant and come to the Unity Island parking lot at 5 miles before traveling underneath the International RR Bridge, which crosses the river to Canada and crossing the access road. Here the trail turns right, East.

Note; After crossing the access road there are some paved trails on your left that will bring you to the Northern Tip of Unity Island where you can check out Black Rock Lock. A stone pier leads to the Canal's end where it enters the Niagara River. About 0.6 miles one-way to the end of the pier. 

Continuing East, the trail parallels the RR tracks, crossing the RR/car bridge over Black Rock Canal and coming to an ***Intersection.  

Note; From this ***Intersection, left is the Western End of the Jesse Kregal Pathway which follows Scajaquada Creek East, out to Delaware Park.

Continue straight down the **Unity Island Bridge Ramp out to Niagara St, returning back to the Shoreline Trail; Riverwalk Section at 1.7 miles. *[9.2 miles].

Continuing North, along the Shoreline Trail; Riverwalk Section via the 2-Way SEPARATED BIKE LANE on Niagara St. [Continuing Mileage from Option B *9.2 miles] Come to Hertel Ave and head left, West, via the 2-Way SEPARATED BIKE LANE along Hertel Ave. Travel underneath I-190 and you'll pick up the paved trail on your right at 9.9 miles.

Note; If you continue down Hertel Ave you'll to the Tow Path Park parking lot. Short Loop trail here. Looking South, you'll spot Unity Island and the Black Rock Canal. The Black Rock Canal extends 3.5 miles from Buffalo Harbor North, to the Black Rock Lock, which was constructed in 1908-1913. The Canal allows vessels to bypass the reefs, rapids and fast currant of the Niagara River. 

Continuing North, the trail travels below I-190, around Harbor Place Marine, past a Dog Park and underneath an exit ramp for  I-190 before coming to Black Rock Canal Park parking lot at 10.3 miles. You travel between Black Rock Harbor Rd and the Niagara River before passing by a pedestrian bridge over  I-190 that leads to Riverside Park. The trail soon follows Aqua Lane away from the river, past Stingers Marina and Aqua Lane Park up to the intersection with River Rd and Sheridan Dr at 12 miles.

Note; Across River Rd is where you can access the Southern End of Two Mile Creek Greenway .

SHORELINE TRAIL; GREENWAY UPPER RIVER SECTION:

[Northern Section]

SHORELINE TRAIL; RIVERWALK SECTION:

[North Buffalo along the Upper Niagara River to Tonawanda]

The Shoreline Trail; Greenway Upper River; Riverwalk Section continues North, alongside River Rd. [Continuing Mileage] I haven't checked out this section. Travel underneath a RR bridge before coming to the I-190 bridge and an intersection at 14.2 miles.

Note; I haven't checked out any trails on Grand Island yet. If you head right, Southeast, along a paved trail, then straight when it splits, this leads up to the I-190 bridge. This is the paved Shoreline Trail; Grand Island; I-190 South Bridge Section which takes you Northwest, across the Niagara River to the South Parkway on Grand Island after 1 mile. See; Shoreline Trail; Grand Island Section Below.

Continuing underneath the I-190 bridge you enter Isle View Park at 14.8 miles. Multiple parking lots, boat launch, dock, picnic tables and gazebos. I've checked out this section. Across the river is Grand Island. The trail meanders through the park alongside the river before crossing a bridge over Two Mile Creek and coming to a Map Board at 16.1 miles in Niawanda Park. Multiple parking lots, a boat launch, dock, band shell and restrooms located here.

Note; This is the Northern End of the Two Mile Creek Greenway which travels right, across Niagara St and South alongside Two Mile Creek.

Continuing North, you come to the juncture of the Niagara River, the Erie Canal and Ellicott Creek at 17.3 miles. Across the river is Tonawanda Island. 

The Erie Canal utilizes the Niagara River South, past Grand Island. Just South of Grand Island, the Erie Canal utilizes Black Rock Canal which continues South, between Buffalo and Unity Island. It is then separated from the Niagara River via a stone causeway before entering Buffalo Harbor in Buffalo.

Head right, East, along the Erie Canal and Ellicott Creek passing by an old RR turn bridge out in the middle of the Canal. Travel underneath Seymour St heading right, out to Niagara St in Tonawanda. Head left to Main St and Tonawanda Gateway Harbor across the road at 18 miles.

Note; The Erie Canalway Trail; Rochester-Buffalo continues straight, East, from Gateway Harbor crossing an iron bridge over Ellicott Creek. 

Note; Straight, East, along Young St will bring you to the Tonawanda Gateway (Tonawanda Blue & Greenways Intermodal Hub) on your right. Parking, picnic tables and restrooms for bikers, hikers and Canal users.

This is the end of the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Upper River/Riverwalk Section.

SHORELINE TRAIL; NIAGARA RIVER GREENWAY SECTION:

[North Tonawanda Northwest along the Upper Niagara River to Niagara Falls]

Starting from the Tonawanda Gateway Harbor in Tonawanda [Continuing Mileage from Shoreline Trail; Greenway Upper River/Riverwalk Section]; Travel North, across the Renaissance Bridge (Main St) over the Erie Canal to Sweeney Street in North Tonawanda.                        

Note; From here you can access the Gateway Harbor Canalway Trail. I've checked out this section. Heading right, East, along a wide cement path takes you above the Erie Canal and through a pavilion (rest rooms) at North Tonawanda Gateway Park. Cross Main St, then turn right through a parking lot to a brick lined trail along the Erie Canal. Travel underneath a RR bridge where you pick up a wide paved trail at 0.4 miles. Trail meanders alongside the Erie Canal before traveling around the Sweeney Street parking lot out to Sweeney St at 0.7 miles where a BIKE LANE continues east. Just past Bryant St you'll pick up the paved trail again on your right for a short time before the BIKE LANE continues East, underneath Route 425. Just after 1.1 miles you'll pick up the paved trail again on your right. I haven't checked out this section. The trail then pulls away from the Canal before turning right off Sweeny St at 1.5 miles and back along the Erie Canal bringing you to Mayors Park at about 1.9 miles. Future plans call for continuing the trail Northeast, along the  Erie Canal to the City Botanical Garden. Construction is planned for 2024.

I haven't checked out this section. Head left, West, on-road (low traffic) along Sweeney Street and travel underneath the Seymour Street Bridge and bear right, North, along Sweeny St Ext past the Wardell Boat Yard. After 18.3 miles you'll pick up the paved Shoreline Trail; Greenway Upper River/Niagara River Greenway Section that brings you out to River Rd (Route 265). Here the wide paved trail continues straight, North, alongside River Rd through North Tonawanda. Tonawanda Island is across the Niagara River on your left. Pass by Raymond Klimek Veterans Park at 19.4 miles. Parking, picnic pavilions, monuments. The Navy Seabees Monument complete with an old bull dozer. Next you'll pass by a Marina where the trail turns off the road at 20.2 miles and alongside the river as it travels through Gratwick Waterfront Park. Parking lots, boat ramp, pier, playground and picnic pavilion. You exit the park back out to River Rd at 21.2 miles. 

Note; A *Gap exits, Northwest for 2.5 miles to Griffon Park. Construction is underway on a paved trail in 2024. See; "orange line" in North Tonawanda in Map Below.

*Gap Cross River Rd and travel left, Northwest, along the Northern Side of River Rd for a short distance into Wheatfield, before the trail turns right, North, to an active rail line. It then follows an old rail bed, with the active rail line along your right, Northeast. Pull away from the active rail line before crossing Liberty Dr. Come to Williams Rd and head left, to and across River Rd and continue Northwest, along the Southern Side of River Rd. Cross back over River Rd to Griffon Park at 23.7 miles in Niagara Falls. River Rd is now called Buffalo Ave (Route 265). To your right, North, across La Salle Expressway, is Love Canal (site of Superfund disaster). Come to a crosswalk at 24.1 miles.

Note; This takes you South, across Buffalo Ave to Griffon Park, where you'll find Parking, a restroom, boat ramp, kayak launch and a 0.5 mile paved Griffon Park Loop Trail down alongside the Niagara River. The Niagara River splits creating Cayuga Island across this narrow section of the river.

Continuing North, you'll cross over Cayuga Creek at 24.5 miles and come to Buffalo Ave/Cayuga Dr. 

Note; A Gap currently exits, West, to Lasalle Waterfront Park. Trail under construction in 2024. See; "orange line" in Niagara Falls in Map Above & "green line" in Map Below. Not sure how much will be on-road.

Note; This next 1.4 mile section West is all on-road. Not recommended for novice bikers.

Turn left along Buffalo Ave (Route 265). This on-road section travels through a densely populated suburb of Niagara Falls. Use Caution Biking. You'll pick up the paved Shoreline Trail; Niagara River Greenway Section on your left at 25.9 miles just before an overpass. This brings you to the La Salle Waterfront Park parking lot. 

Note; If you continue straight, underneath the overpass, you'll come to a paved trail on your left. This leads up to the Shoreline Trail; I-190 North Bridge Section [Northbound]. Continuing underneath I-190 you'll come to another paved trail on your left after 0.25 miles. This leads up to the Shoreline Trail; I-190 North Bridge Section [Southbound]. This trail takes you South across the Niagara River to Buckhorn Island State Park on Grand Island after 1 mile. I haven't checked out any trails on Grand Island yet. See; Shoreline Trail; Grand Island Section Below.

Travel down through La Salle Waterfront Park where the trail continues West, alongside the Niagara River. You travel underneath the I-190 bridge then between the river and the Niagara Scenic Pkwy. Pass through the 53rd Street Fisherman's Park, before coming to the Upper Niagara Intake Observation Area & Fort Schlosser parking lot at 27.4 miles.

Fort Schlosser was a fortification built around 1760 by British Colonial forces, in order to guard the upper entrance to the portage around Niagara Falls, near the Porter-Barton Dock. The Old Stone Chimney from Fort Little Niagara (previous Fort on site) was incorporated into Fort Schlosser. Fort Schlosser was captured in 1813 and burned during the War of 1812. This site s now the current water intakes for the NY Power Authority. Today, all that remains is the Old Stone Chimney, which was moved North. You'll pass by it later. 

Continuing West, come to an intersection. Left, a stone-dust trail takes you down along the river. Continue along the paved trail and you'll come to the Old Stone Chimney parking lot and Old Stone Chimney. You then travel around an inlet and come to a Map Board. Right leads to the Overlook parking lot. Continue along the inlet to another intersection.

Note; Right leads up to the Overlook parking lot and the Overlook Trail, which includes an overlook, as it travels West. This trail rejoins Shoreline Trail; Niagara River Greenway Section.

Continuing West, alongside the river, you rejoin the Overlook Trail, which quickly heads right again.

Note; The Overlook Trail travels around a small pond to an *Intersection. Right, North, is the Niagara Falls Downtown Trail. Straight, the trail rejoins the Shoreline Trail; Niagara River Greenway Section.

 Continuing West, between a small pond and the river, come to an intersection at 29.5 miles. 

Note; Right, North, the Overlook Trail leads to an *Intersection. Left, North, leads to the Niagara Falls State Park sign (picture spot). This is the official entrance to Niagara Falls State Park (est. 1885). The Niagara Falls Downtown Trail continues North, crossing the Riverway. 

Note; The Niagara Scenic Pkwy ends at a traffic circle. The Riverway continues West, one-way along the river, while the John B Daly Blvd travels North, through Niagara Falls.

Come to another intersection, where you'll find another short Loop Trail, as well as, a trail West, to 4th St, where you can connect back to the Shoreline Trail; Niagara River Greenway Section. Continuing North, along the Niagara Falls Downtown Trail, you'll come to Buffalo Ave. Map Board. Continue straight, on-road, along Quay St (low traffic) to Rainbow Blvd. Here the trail continues as a double wide sidewalk as it follows John Daly Blvd. Pass by a REDDY BIKE SHARE station and travel past the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino along your left. Come to to Niagara St after 0.6 miles and head left, West along a paved trail. This takes you through downtown Niagara Falls to Rainbow Blvd. The Rainbow Bridge over the Niagara River to Canada is straight ahead. Travel across Rainbow Blvd and head right, North, along a wide sidewalk past Little Lady Liberty Park (Miniature Stature of Liberty). Cross Main St and pick up the Southern End of the paved Shoreline Trail; Greenway Lower River; Niagara Scenic Parkway Trail after 1.2 miles. Map Board. This trail will bring you to the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center at 1.6 miles where it intersects with the Northern End of the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Upper River; Niagara River Greenway Section. See; NIAGARA GORGE DISCOVERY CENTER . See; Shoreline Trail; Greenway Lower River; Niagara Scenic Parkway Trail Below.

Continue straight, West, between the Niagara River and Riverway (trail splits several times, but always merges back), passing by the 1st Riverway parking lot (right is the main trail, left follows the river with lots of overlooks). This is where the Niagara River splits at Goat Island, which you can spot across the river. Lots of rapids here as the river flows towards the American Falls. Pass by the 2nd Riverway parking lot before traveling underneath 1st Street Bridge and coming to Goat Island Rd at 30.2 miles. I've checked out this next section. 

Note; Left, South, along Goat Island Road Bridge, will take you across the Niagara River to Goat Island. Here, you can follow Goat Island Loop around the Island, where you can view both the American & Horseshoe Falls. If biking use the middle car lane or walk bikes if using the pedestrian lane. Head right, West, along the paved trail which splits. Keep left if biking. This will bring you to an overlook of the American Falls at 0.5 miles. 

Note; Stairs lead down to an overlook for the Bridal Veil Falls. 

Continuing left, South, you'll pass by shops, cafes, restrooms and the entrance for Cave of the Winds. Follow the trail closest to the river, passing by the Top of the Falls restaurant, behind which is the parking lot (Fee) and you'll next come to Terrapin Point. A path winds down to the point at 0.8 miles where you can view the Horseshoe Falls. Continue left, East, past the Falls heading upstream along the river (gradual climb) and you'll come to an intersection with Goat Island Rd (this road circles the Island) at 1.2 miles. Head right and you'll come to a Stone Bridge on your right. 

Note; This brings you South, out to Three Sisters Island. Head right over the stone bridge followed by 2 more steel bridges to an overlook of the Niagara River. If you look upstream you'll spot a dam across the river which is located on the Canadian side. Head back out to Goat Island Rd, back to the Stone Bridge. 

Continue right, East and you'll pass by a couple more parking lots as you round the Eastern Tip of the Island. Travel West, underneath the 1st Street Bridge and you'll return to the Goat Island Road Bridge. Head right, North and return to the Shoreline Trail; Niagara River Greenway Section after a 2.5 mile Loop.

Continuing West, along the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Upper River; Niagara River Greenway Section brings you to an overlook for the American Falls at Prospect Point Park after 30.4 miles and the start of the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Lower River; Niagara River Greenway Section.

SHORELINE TRAIL; GREENWAY LOWER RIVER SECTION:

[Northern Section]

SHORELINE TRAIL; NIAGARA RIVER GREENWAY SECTION:

[Niagara Falls State Park North above the Lower Niagara River]

The Shoreline Trail; Greenway Lower River; Niagara River Greenway Section continues North away from Niagara Falls and high above the Lower Niagara River. [Continuing Mileage] You travel underneath the Niagara River Observation Tower and Maid of the Mist Boat Tour. Up to your right is the NIAGARA FALLS SP VISITOR CENTER . Travel high above Niagara River Gorge, then underneath the Rainbow Bridge. You'll come to a set of stairs on your left. If biking you can bypass the stairs by continuing straight, then heading left, back above the river. You pass by the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center parking lots and come to the Schoellkopf Site.

The Schoellkopf Power Station was constructed in three sections between 1905 and 1924, and at the time of its completion was the largest hydro-electric power station in the world. Water was diverted from the Niagara River above the Falls, by a 4,600’ Canal that ran through the city to the edge of the Gorge. On June 7th, 1956, two-thirds of the power station was destroyed by a series of rockslides. In 2013 the original elevator shaft was restored and elevator access to the Gorge and the Schoellkopf Site was granted.

Next you come to the **Niagara Gorge Discovery Center at 31.1 miles. See; NIAGARA GORGE DISCOVERY CENTER .

From the **Niagara Gorge Discovery Center you have several options. 

SHORELINE TRAIL; NIAGARA SCENIC PARKWAY TRAIL:

[Downtown Niagara Falls State Park North above the Lower Niagara River]

The Shoreline Trail; Greenway Lower River; Niagara Scenic Parkway Trail starts off Main St in Downtown Niagara Falls, just East of the Rainbow Bridge. It travels 0.4 miles to the **Niagara Gorge Discovery Center where it intersects with the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Lower River; Niagara River Greenway Section. 

Continuing from the **Niagara Gorge Discovery Center [Northern End of the Shoreline Trail; Niagara River Greenway Section] in Niagara Falls [Continuing Mileage; 31.1 miles]; I haven't checked out this section yet. The Shoreline Trail; Niagara Scenic Parkway Trail continues North, along the former right of way of the old Robert Moses State Pkwy/Niagara Scenic Pkwy.

Note; The old Robert Moses State Pkwy, which was renamed the Niagara Scenic Pkwy, was removed to restore more parkland within Niagara State Park. 

The main Shoreline Trail; Niagara Scenic Parkway Trail stays inland, while the narrower, Niagara Gorge Rim Trail travels above the Niagara River. The trail parallels Whirlpool St after 31.5 miles. Pass by the steep stairs down to the GREAT GORGE RAILWAY TRAIL before coming to Freedom Plaza at 32.2 miles. Check out the 2 old bridge abutments, the 2nd still has an old RR bridge over the river (closed). Travel underneath the Whirlpool Rapids Railroad Bridge and continue North, paralleling Whirlpool St through a short industrial section, before retuning to greenery. After 32.9 miles the main trail utilizes one of the old Niagara Scenic Pkwy lanes, while the narrower, Niagara Gorge Rim Trail travels above the Niagara River. Come to an intersection at 33.1 miles.

Note; Right, East, leads to a crosswalk over the Pkwy to DE VEAUX WOODS SP . Left, West, takes you to WHIRLPOOL SP . Restrooms and parking lot. 

Continuing North, the trail utilizes one of the old Niagara Scenic Pkwy lanes and parallels the Pkwy. Come to the Devils Hole SP parking lot and DEVILS HOLE SP at 34.3 miles. Right, East, a pedestrian bridge takes you over the Niagara Scenic Pkwy to another parking lot.  

Note; The Niagara Gorge Rim Trail ends here. 

The Shoreline Trail; Niagara Scenic Parkway Trail continues North, alongside the Niagara Scenic Pkwy and below Lewiston Rd (Route 104) on your right. Travel across the Niagara Power Station Dam at 35.1 miles. Across the Niagara River is the Niagara Falls Power Station Dam in Canada. This is where all the water that was diverted from the Niagara River along Power Canals and reservoirs to generate electricity, returns back to the Niagara River. The trail continues alongside the Niagara Scenic Pkwy. Travel underneath I-190 (Lewiston-Queenston Bridge) at 34.8 miles. The trail then stops utilizing the old Niagara Scenic Pkwy lane and now travels alongside the Niagara Scenic Pkwy as a separate paved trail. Come to a Spur Trail on your left at 35.3 miles. 

Note; I believe you can access the Artpark Gorge Trail here. See; Artpark Gorge Trail Map Below.

The trail turns inland, Northeast, away from the river. The trail then turns off the Pkwy to Seneca Street & S 9th Street in Lewiston at 36.2 miles. 

Note; Heading left, West, on-road, along Seneca St brings you to the entrance for Earl Bridges Artpark State Park on your left, along with a Map Board. See; ARTPARK SP . This road also brings you Southwest, to Lewiston Dog Park & Richard Soluri Park. 0.9 miles to the Artpark Gorge Trail trailhead parking lot. I haven't checked out this trail.

Earl W. Brydges Artpark is dedicated to presenting the finest in performing and visual arts programs; including world-class amphitheater rock and pop concerts, interactive public art installations, outdoor festivals, gallery exhibits, art and theatre workshops, summer camps and more. The park is also home to a variety of historic sites and scenic nature trails. Lower Landing Archeological District is a key point in the Colonial Niagara Historic District. The park has picnic facilities, hiking and cross-country skiing, and access to fishing. The Artpark Gorge Trail travels South, below the Shoreline Trail; Niagara Scenic Parkway Trail.

Note; A Gap exists, as of 2024, between the next section, 0.7 miles North, paralleling the Niagara Scenic Pkwy. I'm not sure if this is officially part of the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Lower River; Niagara Scenic Parkway Trail, as there are no signs, however, there are Bike Markings painted on the road along this route.

From Seneca Street & S 9th Street head right, North, on-road [Bike Markings painted on the road] along S 9th St (some commercial, some residential) through Lewiston to Cayuga St. Here, a short, paved trail travels along the East side of Academy Park to Center St. Continue North, on-road, along N 9th St to Mohawk St and turn right, East. Just before the Niagara Scenic Pkwy Bridge you'll pick up the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Lower River; Niagara Scenic Parkway Trail on your left at 36.9 miles. 

Note; A paved trail continues East, underneath the Niagara Scenic Pkwy Bridge, then North alongside Eddy Dr, ending at Scovell Dr after 0.25 miles.

The paved trail travels North, through a wooded corridor parallel to the Niagara Scenic Pkwy to the East. Pass by a Spur Trail on your left at 37.8 miles, that leads to Kiwanis Park parking lot. Some sections of the trail are right next to the pkwy and others are in the woods. After 39.9 miles you'll come to Pletcher Rd. Here the trail leaves the Pkwy heading left, West, alongside Pletcher Rd. This is a residential corridor. Pass by the entrance to Lewiston Town Park parking lot (Picnic pavilions, playground, sports fields & restrooms) at 40.4 miles before coming to Lower River Rd at 40.6 miles. 

Note; A narrow paved trail travels left, South, alongside Lower River Rd before ending at Dutton Dr after 1 mile . 

Continuing right, North, a narrow paved trail travels along the East Side of Lower River Rd. Cross the entrance road for JOSEPH DAVIS SP at 41.6 miles. Just before Park Rd the trail crosses over to the West Side of Lower River Rd and continues North. The trail ends at Riverview Dr after 43.2 miles. 

Note; A Gap exists, as of 2024, North, to Fort Niagara. There are 2 projects to fill this Gap: Village of Youngstown: 2025; The trail will travel from Fort Niagara State Park South, to the Youngstown Estates neighborhood. Town of Porter: 2026 to 2027; The trail contained in the Town of Porter from Youngstown Estates South, to Joseph Davis State Park.

You may continue North, on-road (narrow shoulder). Travel through Youngstown along Main St (wide shoulder) at 43.7 miles. After 44.4 miles you'll enter FORT NIAGARA SP (Fee for cars). You can bike through the park and visit Fort Niagara (Fee ), swimming pool (Fee ), boat launch, picnic tables, playground, beach, restrooms. Views of the Niagara River entering Lake Ontario. Come to Fort Niagara after 45.6 miles

SHORELINE TRAIL; GRAND ISLAND SECTION:

I haven't checked out any trails on Grand Island yet. 

Starting from the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Upper River; Riverwalk Section & I-190 bridge; If you head right from the Shoreline Trail, along a paved trail, then straight when it splits, this leads up to the I-190 bridge. This is the paved Shoreline Trail; Grand Island; I-190 South Bridge Section which takes you Northwest, across the Niagara River to South Parkway on Grand Island after 1 mile.

From South Parkway on Grand Island: The paved Shoreline Trail; Grand Island; South Parkway Section travels both North & South. Heading South it brings you to Beaver Island SP, where you can access the paved Shoreline Trail; Grand Island; West River Shoreline Trail, which takes you North, to the Northern End of Grand Island and the Eagle Overlook & Kayak Launch parking lot. From here you can access the Shoreline Trail; Grand Island; I-190 North Bridge Section, via a short on-road section. Heading East from the North Bridge, you can access the Buckhorn Island SP Trail. The Shoreline Trail; Grand Island; I-190 North Bridge Section travels across the Niagara River to Niagara Falls, where you can access the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Upper River Section.

SHORELINE TRAIL; GRAND ISLAND; SOUTH PARKWAY SHORELINE TRAIL:

Starting from the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Upper River; Riverwalk Section & I-190 bridge; If you head right from the Shoreline Trail, along a paved trail, then straight when it splits, this leads up to the I-190 bridge. This is the paved Shoreline Trail; Grand Island; I-190 South Bridge Section which takes you Northwest, across the Niagara River to South Parkway on Grand Island after 1 mile. Here you'll pick up the paved Shoreline Trail; Grand Island; South Parkway Section.

Note; From South Parkway heading North; Here you can follow the paved Shoreline Trail; South Parkway Section to the Stanley Rd traffic circle after 0.8 miles. Places to eat.

From South Parkway heading South [Northern End]; Here you can follow the paved Shoreline Trail; South Parkway Section to Beaver Island SP. Just after passing by the River Lea Trail on your left you come to a *Traffic Circle. Continue around the *Traffic Circle passing by a Map Board and a sign for Beaver Island SP before coming to a crosswalk and Park Rd at 3 miles. 

Note; The Shoreline Trail; West River Shoreline Trail continues right, across Park Rd, then right, Northwest, alongside W River Pkwy. See; Shoreline Trail; West River Shoreline Trail Below.

Continuing straight, South, you'll soon cross Park Rd, pass by the Beaver Island SP Nature Center and Falconwood at Beaver Island SP before coming to the Beaver Island SP parking lot after 3.8 miles. Playground. See; BEAVER ISLAND SP .

SHORELINE TRAIL; WEST RIVER SHORELINE TRAIL:

Starting from the *Traffic Circle at Park Road & W River Pkwy [Southern End]; I haven't checked out this trail. The Shoreline Trail; West River Shoreline Trail travels Northwest, alongside W River Pkwy.

The Pkwy quickly ends at W Oakfield Rd where the trail continues inland along a grass medium between W & E Oakfield Rd. After 1.5 miles the trail continues between the Niagara River & W River Rd. Pass by the Fix Road parking lot at 2.6 miles. Pass by the Whitehaven Overlook parking lot at 5.3 miles. Cross over Big Six Mile Creek at 6.1 miles. After **7.6 miles come to **W River Pkwy & Long Road.

Note; Option 1 [For less experienced bikers]: To connect to the Shoreline Trail; I-190 North Bridge Section continue right, then left, East, on-road along Long Rd (narrow shoulder). Travel over I-190. Use Caution crossing over I-190 as there are on/off ramps. Come to Grand Island Blvd and head left, North, on-road (wide shoulder) a short distance and you'll pick up the paved Shoreline Trail; I-190 North Bridge Section [Southern End] at 8.6 miles. Continuing North will bring you to ***East-West Park Road at **9 miles [0.4 miles longer].

From **W River Pkwy & Long Road, the Shoreline Trail; West River Shoreline Trail continues North, alongside W River Pkwy w/out the medium. This brings you to the Eagle Overlook parking lot at 8.1 miles and the end of the trail.

Note; Option 2 [For more experienced bikers]: To connect to the Shoreline Trail; I-190 North Bridge Section from Eagle Overlook parking lot continue East, on-road along W River Pkwy (wide shoulder). This route intersects with the I-190 off/on ramps so Use Caution. Continue straight along East-West Park Road crossing a bridge over I-190. Continue straight past another on-ramp and you'll come to where the Shoreline Trail; I-190 North Bridge Section crosses ***East-West Park Road at **8.6 miles.

SHORELINE TRAIL; I-190 NORTH BRIDGE SECTION

Starting from Grand Island Blvd [Southern End]; The paved Shoreline Trail; I-190 North Bridge Section travels North, crossing ***East-West Park Road and traveling parallel to I-190 through Buckhorn Island State Park. Cross over scenic Burnt Ship Creek Marsh (overlook) and come to an intersection at 1.1 miles.

Note; Continuing straight brings you to another intersection. Here, left, West, leads up to the Shoreline Trail; I-190 North Bridge Section [Southbound]. Right, East, is the start of the Buckhorn Island SP Trail. I haven't checked out this trail yet. See; BUCKHORN ISLAND SP .

Continuing left, North, leads to a narrow path along the Shoreline Trail; I-190 North Bridge Section [Northbound]. Cross over the Niagara River to Buffalo Ave in Niagara Falls. Turn right, East and you'll come to the Shoreline Trail; Greenway Upper River; Niagara River Greenway intersection. Right leads to the Lasalle Waterfront Park parking lot after 2.1 miles.

HH

CLICK HERE FOR SHORELINE TRAIL MAP

CLICK HERE FOR NIAGARA FALLS MAP

CLICK HERE FOR NIAGARA GORGE TRAILS MAP

CLICK HERE FOR SHORELINE TRAIL GRAND ISLAND MAP

CLICK HERE FOR BUCKHORN ISLAND SP TRAIL MAP

CLICK HERE FOR BEAVER ISLAND SP TRAIL MAP

CLICK HERE FOR ARTPARK GORGE TRAIL MAP

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