The Niagara Gorge Trail is a series of five different trails that combine to provide a total of about 12.5 miles of trail through some of the most beautiful scenery in western New York State. Each trail is clearly marked and the trail start indicates the level of difficulty, the total distance, and the major landmarks or attractions along the trail. Since the trails are not all connected, hikers can work through all five of the trails to earn a hiking patch through the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. To earn this patch hikers must complete all five trails, write a brief summary of the trail and complete at least one of the hikes with a State Park Naturalist, which will require scheduling that particular hike.
While on the trails most hikers will take the time to observe the plants, animals and birds that they encounter. The trails are officially open all year round, although hiking in the winter months after November 1st and spring months is not recommended due to the possibility of rock slides and increased difficulty in crossing the more rugged trails during wet and cold weather. Most of the trails within the Niagara Gorge Trail system are easy to moderate in difficulty and will not require any special equipment other than sturdy hiking boots or other suitable shoes. In most places along the Gorge Trails overnight camping is not permitted, nor are open fires or firearms. Hikers are encouraged to hike with a buddy as well as notify others as to the trails they are attempting that day in case of an accident or unforeseen event.
The following tours drive by Niagara Gorge Trail:
We also offer a detail of most tour stops, drive bys and visits with our Tour Connections page.
