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Cycling routes
United States
New York
Erie County

Cheektowaga

The best cycling routes around Cheektowaga

4.6

(72)

461

riders

30

rides

Touring cycling routes around Cheektowaga offer access to extensive trail networks and varied landscapes. The region features a mix of paved and unpaved paths, including segments of the historic Erie Canalway Trail and local Rails-to-Trails routes. Natural areas like Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve and Stiglmeier Park provide additional recreational opportunities. This connectivity allows cyclists to explore local scenery and link to broader regional attractions.

Best touring cycling routes around Cheektowaga

  • The most popular touring cycling route is Erie Canalway and Iroquois Refuge Loop, a 80.2 miles (129.1 km) trail that takes 7 hours 30 minutes to complete. This difficult route combines historic canal paths with natural refuge areas.
  • Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Erie Canal view – Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails loop from Amherst Street, a moderate 50.4 miles (81.1 km) path. This route provides scenic views along the Erie Canal and utilizes the Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails network.
  • Local touring cyclists also love the Portable Toilet – The Brickhall loop from New Enterprise, a 18.4 miles (29.7 km) trail leading through local landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 45 minutes.
  • Touring cycling around Cheektowaga is defined by extensive trail networks, historic canal paths, and local parks and preserves. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy paved paths to more challenging segments.
  • The routes in Cheektowaga are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 70 reviews. More than 500 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Cheektowaga's varied terrain.

Last updated: June 28, 2026

#1.

Erie Canalway and Iroquois Refuge Loop

129km

07:30

230m

230m

The Erie Canalway and Iroquois Refuge Loop offers a unique touring bicycle experience, blending historic waterways with diverse natural habitats. You'll start along the Erie Canalway Trail, enjoying canal-side views and passing through charming towns, before transitioning into the tranquil wetlands of the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, where you can spot abundant wildlife like waterfowl and bald eagles. The terrain is a mix of paved, stone dust, and some natural, rutted sections, requiring a hybrid or gravel bike for the best ride.

Planning your trip for this difficult 80.2-mile (129.1 km) route, which takes about 7 hours and 30 minutes with 745 feet (227 metres) of elevation gain, is best done between May and September for optimal weather. While specific parking details for the entire loop aren't highlighted, amenities like bike repair stations and hostels are available along the way. This route is ideal for experienced cyclists looking for a substantial challenge and varied scenery.

What makes this loop truly stand out is its combination of historical significance and natural beauty. The Erie Canalway Trail follows a world-famous waterway that shaped American history, while the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge provides a stark contrast with its extensive wetlands and unique ecosystems. This blend offers a rich cultural and ecological journey, making it one of the top rated loop bike routes in New York for those seeking a diverse and rewarding adventure.

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Hard

5.0

(6)

43

riders

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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The Erie Canal view – Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails loop from Amherst Street offers a long, pleasant touring cycling experience, primarily on paved surfaces. You'll follow the historic Erie Canal, enjoying water views and spotting local wildlife, before transitioning to the Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails, a smooth path known for its blend of urban convenience and nature observation. This moderate 50.4-mile (81.1 km) route, with a gentle 444 feet (135 metres) of elevation gain, is a great choice for cyclists looking for a scenic, accessible long ride that takes about 4 hours and 33 minutes to complete.

For planning your visit, parking is conveniently located at various points along the route, including Ives Park, Walter M. Kenney Field, and Amherst Veterans Canal Park. While the trail is mostly off-road, be prepared for a few short on-road sections where you'll share the shoulder with traffic. The Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails section is equipped with HAWK signals or RRFB at major intersections, enhancing safety for crossings.

This loop combines significant portions of the historic Erie Canalway Trail, part of the larger Empire State Trail, with the newer Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails. The Erie Canalway Trail offers a glimpse into New York's past, while the Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails, constructed in 2016, provides a vital recreational link for the community. You might even spot turkeys and various bird species along the way, adding a natural element to this urban-adjacent ride.

Moderate

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

Freelancer 🥾 🚵 🏍️🏃‍♂️
September 11, 2025, Erie Canal view

Great place for cycling and dog walking for nature lovers

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A pretty bridge, a nice bike path underneath and if you're lucky you might see a train passing overhead.

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The waterfalls are beautiful! The path is not easy and overgrown. There is a wooden ladder you can use to go down and skip part of the way, but it's not attached to the wall, so be careful.

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8.5-hectare park with concerts, children's programs, water sports, and comfortable Adirondack chairs.

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One of the most beautiful spots along the Buffalo waterfront. The attached photos show the large marble remnants of the facade of the original M&T Bank headquarters/branch. It's a wonderful place to stroll and enjoy the scenery. There's also a kayak launch and kayak rentals.

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A beautiful little gem! Beautiful views, plenty of picnic tables, restrooms, a playground, informative signs, and two pairs of binoculars. I'm already looking forward to more picnics there! Beware of a wasp nest in the ground and the strong smell of dead fish among the rocks.

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The Amherst Canalway Trail offers a peaceful, paved route perfect for walking, biking, or rollerblading along the historic Erie Canal. Stretching about eleven miles, it connects Tonawanda to Amherst and showcases scenic views, parks, and local history just outside Buffalo.

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oliviakellis
May 16, 2025, Park Site

Here you have a small but pleasant park space perfect for a break.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available in Cheektowaga?

There are over 30 touring cycling routes around Cheektowaga, offering a diverse range of experiences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 70 reviews.

What kind of terrain can I expect on Cheektowaga's touring cycling routes?

Cheektowaga's touring cycling routes feature a mix of paved and unpaved paths. Many trails, like segments of the Erie Canalway Trail and the Cheektowaga Historic Rails to Trails, are mostly flat and accessible. However, some routes may include more challenging segments with varied surfaces, catering to different fitness levels.

Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, Cheektowaga offers 21 easy touring cycling routes, many of which are suitable for beginners and families. The Portable Toilet – The Brickhall loop from New Enterprise is an easy 18.4-mile (29.7 km) trail, often completed in about 1 hour 45 minutes. The Cheektowaga Bike Path and Ellicott Creek Trailway are also paved, multi-use paths ideal for leisurely rides.

Are there more challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?

Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, there is at least one difficult route available. The Erie Canalway and Iroquois Refuge Loop is a demanding 80.2-mile (129.1 km) trail that combines historic canal paths with natural refuge areas, typically taking around 7 hours 30 minutes to complete.

What natural features or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes?

Along the routes, you can explore various natural features and landmarks. The Erie Canalway Trail offers historical artifacts like guard gates and aqueducts. You can also visit natural areas such as Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve and Stiglmeier Park. Notable highlights include Wilkeson Point, Lake Kirsty, and Tiff Nature Preserve.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Cheektowaga?

Yes, many routes in Cheektowaga are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. An example is the Erie Canal view – Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails loop from Amherst Street, a moderate 50.4-mile (81.1 km) path providing scenic views along the Erie Canal.

Is parking available near the touring cycling routes in Cheektowaga?

Yes, parking is generally available near many of the trailheads and parks that serve as access points for Cheektowaga's touring cycling routes. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages or local park websites.

What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Cheektowaga?

The best time for touring cycling in Cheektowaga is typically from spring through fall. During these seasons, the weather is generally pleasant, and the trails are in optimal condition. While some trails may be accessible in winter, conditions can vary due to snow and ice.

Can I expect to see wildlife while cycling in Cheektowaga?

Yes, areas like Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve and the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge (accessible via routes like the Erie Canalway and Iroquois Refuge Loop) offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. Cyclists might encounter various bird species, deer, and other local fauna, especially in quieter, more natural segments of the trails.

Do the routes offer any historical insights?

Absolutely. The Erie Canalway Trail traces the path of the historic Erie Canal, a significant engineering feat, and you can see historical artifacts along the way. The Cheektowaga Historic Rails to Trails also highlights the area's railway past, with remnants of large coal trestles and historical markers, offering a journey through local history.

How do Cheektowaga's routes connect to broader regional networks?

Cheektowaga's routes are well-connected to broader regional networks. The area serves as a gateway to the extensive Erie Canalway Trail and provides access to the wider Empire State Trail system. You can also connect to the Buffalo Shoreline Trail, which leads to attractions in Buffalo like Canalside Boardwalk, Buffalo.

What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Cheektowaga?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive and varied trail networks, the scenic views along the Erie Canal, and the blend of natural beauty with historical context. The availability of routes for all skill levels is also frequently highlighted.

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