The best walks and hikes around Bedford Heights

Yes, dogs are generally welcome in the Bedford Reservation, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. The trails are shared with other hikers, runners, and sometimes horses, so it's important to maintain control of your pet.

The area is famous for its waterfalls. A great option is the Great Falls and Bridle Veil Falls via the Buckeye Trail, which takes you to two of the most prominent falls. For a shorter walk, the Aurora Branch Falls loop from Bentleyville is another excellent choice that features a lovely cascade.

Absolutely. The Bridal Veil and Tinkers Creek Falls Loop is a fantastic choice for families. It's a relatively short and easy walk through the woods that still offers the reward of seeing two beautiful waterfalls.

Most trails are within the Bedford Reservation. A popular and convenient starting point is the Egbert Picnic Area, which has ample parking and provides direct access to the Buckeye Trail. Another good access point with parking is Astorhurst Park, the site of a former golf course.

While the region is not known for high mountains, you can find moderately challenging hikes. The Great Falls of Tinkers Creek – Bridal Veil Falls loop from Bedford is a longer route at nearly 8 miles, offering a good workout with some elevation changes through the gorge.

Many trails within the Bedford Reservation offer scenic glimpses into the gorge. The Tinker's Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook provides one of the most dramatic and accessible views. For a view from within the gorge itself, trails that follow the Buckeye Trail often run alongside the creek, offering a different perspective.

You'll find a mix of surfaces. Many of the popular hiking trails, like sections of the Buckeye Trail, are natural surface paths with dirt, rocks, and roots. For those who prefer a paved surface for walking or jogging, the Bedford Reservation also features a 5-mile All-Purpose Trail.

Yes, hiking is a year-round activity here. Winter can be a beautiful time to visit, with fewer crowds and a stark, quiet landscape. However, trails can become icy and slippery, especially near waterfalls and in the gorge. It's essential to wear appropriate footwear with good traction, such as microspikes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers frequently praise the dramatic scenery of the Tinkers Creek Gorge, the beauty of the numerous waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls, and the well-maintained trail system that offers a true sense of wilderness so close to the city.

Yes, many of the most popular routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. The Bridal Veil Falls – Bedford Reservation loop from Bedford is a great example of a longer circular hike that explores the heart of the park.

After a hike, many people visit the Great Falls of Tinkers Creek in Viaduct Park. It's a highly-regarded local spot with an impressive 15-foot waterfall over a wide sandstone cliff, located near historic mill ruins.