The best running trails around Tonawanda
5.0
(4)
158
runners
23
runs
Jogging around Tonawanda, New York, offers diverse landscapes and natural features. The region is characterized by a network of trails, parks, and waterways, including the Niagara River and Erie Canal. Terrain varies from paved paths and smooth crushed-gravel sections to natural park settings, with generally minimal elevation gain. These features provide varied scenery and experiences for runners.
Best jogging routes around Tonawanda
- The most popular jogging route is Tonawanda Rails to Trails, a 8.7 miles (14.0 km) trail that…
Last updated: May 5, 2026
8
runners
14.1km
01:27
20m
20m
Jog the Tonawanda Rails to Trails, a moderate 8.7-mile route with minimal elevation gain, offering varied scenery and wildlife sightings.
3
runners
18.6km
01:54
20m
20m
Jog the Erie Canalway Trail, a difficult 11.5-mile route with 78 feet of elevation gain, offering diverse scenery and historical views.
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5.0
(3)
22
runners
14.6km
01:31
50m
50m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
runners
6.61km
00:41
10m
10m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Tonawanda
Tips from the Community
Delaware Park is the jewel in the crown of Buffalo's park system. The park contains lakes, an art gallery, picnic areas, and trails. It also hosts the second largest free Shakespeare festival (after NYC) each summer. You could easily spend a full day here and still not discover everything on offer.
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The Ellicott Creek Trailway is a multiuse trail that follows the waterway of the same name. The trail is paved and takes you through several parks and to the outskirts of the University of Buffalo.
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The Shoreline Trail and Riverwalk share the same path for a number of miles. There are a bunch of great views of the Niagara River from the trail, and you connect to a bunch of different paved paths using this trail. The trail is pretty easy to follow, but there are still a lot of trail signs on the side of the path.
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Bird Island Pier stretches from Squaw Island past the Peace Bridge. It's a tight, paved path with railings on both sides of the trail. It's a super fun path to run on, but it can get annoying dodging people if you go too late in the day. There are some other paths in Broderick Park before you get out on the actual pier.
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There is a paved trail that follows along the banks of Hoyt Lake. The path is wide and is a great spot for a run. There are other paths and greenways that connect to this trail, and there are numerous trail signs and trail maps indicating how to connect the network of paths.
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Delaware Park is one of the most popular parks in the entire country. It has won awards for being one of America's most beautiful parks, and it offers a number of recreational options. The park is a great place to run with a couple different paths and a paved road circling around the perimeter of the park's boundary.
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The Tonawanda Rail Trail is a commuter and exercise trail running from Buffalo to Tonawanda. The trail is primarily paved, but there are some smooth crushed-gravel sections, and there are plenty of spur trails and other paths intersecting the main trail that you can run on. The trail is a really popular spot for runners and bikers, so be aware of other trail users while you run on the path. It's really well-marked, and there are trail maps placed sporadically along the course of the trail.
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Delaware Park is 350 acres in size, you can explore on bike, on food or in a paddle boat on the lake. This beautiful park was awarded one of the Great Places in America by the "American Planning Association" in 2014 and also awarded as one of the top ten parks in the whole world by "The Guardian" in 2015.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Tonawanda?
There are over 20 running routes around Tonawanda documented on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These include easy loops, moderate trails, and some more challenging long-distance runs.
Are there easy running routes for beginners in Tonawanda?
Yes, Tonawanda offers several easy running routes suitable for beginners. For example, the Delaware Park loop from Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin Martin House Complex is a pleasant 2.8-mile (4.5 km) path through a prominent park setting, perfect for a relaxed jog.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Tonawanda's running trails?
The running trails in Tonawanda feature diverse terrain. You'll find mostly paved paths, smooth crushed-gravel sections, and natural park settings. Many routes follow the Niagara River waterfront or the Erie Canal towpaths, offering generally flat surfaces with minimal elevation gain.
Which running routes offer the best scenic views in Tonawanda?
For scenic views, consider routes along the Niagara River and Erie Canal. The Erie Canalway Trail provides diverse scenery and historical views. Additionally, waterfront parks like Niawanda Park and Isle View Park offer tranquil trails with stunning vistas of the Niagara River.
Are there any circular running routes in Tonawanda?
Yes, many routes in Tonawanda are designed as loops or can be easily combined to form circular paths. An example is the Running loop from University at Buffalo, which provides a moderate 4.1-mile (6.6 km) option.
What interesting sights can I see while jogging in Tonawanda?
While jogging in Tonawanda, you can encounter various points of interest. Along the trails, you might spot the South Grand Island Bridge, or pass by facilities like Aqua Lane Park. The Erie Canal itself is a historic waterway, and the Tonawanda Rails to Trails offers opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Are the running trails in Tonawanda dog-friendly?
Many parks and trails in Tonawanda are generally dog-friendly, especially those with open spaces and paved or crushed-gravel paths. However, it's always recommended to check specific park regulations or trail signage for any leash requirements or restrictions before heading out with your pet.
Are there family-friendly jogging paths in Tonawanda?
Yes, several paths are suitable for families. The **Tonawanda Rails to Trails** is an excellent option, being mostly paved with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for various ages. Park settings like Ellicott Creek Park also offer multi-use trails perfect for a family jog.
Where can I find parking near jogging routes in Tonawanda?
Many of Tonawanda's parks and trailheads offer designated parking areas. For instance, parks along the Niagara River like Niawanda Park and Gratwick-Riverside Park typically have parking facilities. Trails like the Tonawanda Rails to Trails also have well-marked access points with parking available.
What do other runners enjoy the most about jogging in Tonawanda?
The running routes in Tonawanda are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, the scenic waterfront views along the Niagara River and Erie Canal, and the variety of terrain from paved paths to natural park settings, catering to all skill levels.
Are there any long-distance running options in Tonawanda?
Yes, for those seeking longer runs, Tonawanda offers several options. The Tonawanda Rails to Trails spans 8.7 miles (14.0 km), while the Erie Canalway Trail extends for 11.5 miles (18.5 km), providing ample distance for endurance training or extended jogs.
Can I find running routes that connect to other areas?
Absolutely. The **Tonawanda Rails to Trails** connects Buffalo to Tonawanda, and portions of the larger **Erie Canalway Trail** in the area link to other paved paths, allowing for longer, interconnected running experiences and exploration beyond Tonawanda itself.
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