Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts look no further than Chestnut Ridge Park, which is located in Orchard Park, NY and bursting with hiking and running trails. Highlighted by a breathtaking view of the City of Buffalo, and 1151 acres of forestry, the Ridge is a great place to cherish the essence of the outdoors.
You’ve likely heard of the Eternal Flame Falls, one of the most popular hiking trails and destinations in this park and a natural wonder which has captivated the hearts of local adventurers for years. However, entrenched within the park there are tons of other hidden trails worth checking out.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best lesser known trails you can find at the Ridge, all of which are family friendly and dog-friendly!
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1. Chestnut Ridge Orienteering and Boy Scout Trails
The 5.6 mile loop presents the perfect chance to emancipate yourself from the highly trafficked ‘Eternal Flame Trail’. This trail is characterized as moderate in difficulty with an opportunity to see wildlife and experience tranquility. Whether it’s running, hiking, or cycling there are a variety of activity options that this beautifully wooded trail has to offer. Furthermore, you can take your dog on this trail as long as they are on a leash.
2. Chestnut Ridge Loop
The Ridge Loop is easily navigable and rated moderate in difficulty. This trail is paved and spans approximately four miles in length. The allure are the beautiful wild flowers which span across the duration of the loop, and it is encouraged to bring your four-legged friend as long as they are on a leash.
3. Chestnut Ridge Reservoir Trail
The Reservoir Trail spans approximately 0.8 miles which is the one of the shortest trails. This is an easy hike which is perfect for all ages and skill levels. Your adventure will be centered around a Lake featuring breathtaking scenery. This trail is used for walking, hiking, nature trips, and bird watching. Prepare yourself for a blissful journey where you will become acclimated with wildlife. Dogs are also able to use this trail but they must be kept on a leash.
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4. Boy Scout Trail from Ward Road
The Boy Scout Trail can be accessed from Ward Road which presents it’s own unique journey. This trail is a woodland abyss full of birds, deer, and other wildlife. It’s rated moderate in difficulty, with an ascension of nearly five hundred feet, so be prepared to venture uphill! The trail spans 4.8 miles in length and is perfect for hiking, running, and nature trips. The best time to impart on this adventure is during the summer, and it is also dog friendly as long as they are on a leash!
5. Snowmobile Trail
The Snowmobile Trail spans 0.8 miles in length. It’s rated moderate in difficulty and accessible year round. Highlighted by gorgeous scenery and a waterfall, this sensory experience is captivating for anyone who enjoys the outdoors and a new adventure. This trail is one of the most secluded and certainly worthwhile. It used primarily for hiking and trail running during the summer, and it is also dog friendly as long as they are on a leash.
This post was originally published in 2021 and has been updated.
