The best walks and hikes in Reservoir State Park
4.7
(118)
2,396
hikers
89
hikes
Hikes in Reservoir State Park NY are situated around the Robert Moses Power Plant Reservoir in Niagara County. The area's landscape is a mix of open parkland, serene woodlands, and wetlands. While the park itself contains mostly gentle paths, it serves as a gateway to the more rugged trail network of the adjacent Niagara Gorge.
Best hiking trails in Reservoir State Park
- The most popular hiking route is Artpark State Park loop — Niagara County, a 2.6 mile (4.3…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
4.26km
01:10
70m
60m
The Artpark Gorge Trail offers a captivating journey along the Niagara River, showcasing its striking blue-green waters and dramatic gorge. You'll traverse varied terrain, from gravel and dirt paths to…
17
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
The Devil's Hole State Park – View of the Niagara River loop from Niagara Glen Nature Reserve offers a captivating, easy hike through diverse landscapes. You'll wander through the pristine…
5.0
(1)
13
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
2.30km
00:39
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Reservoir State Park
Tips from the Community
Great views and a lovely place to relax and fish. I met a few people fishing from the platforms, and the water reaches the bottom of the stairs near the parking lot. There are a lot of stairs here, so take your time and hold onto your little ones and your phones while taking photos on the platforms. In some places, the railings are so wide that your phone could fall through. There's also an elevator to take you there and back if you can't manage the stairs.
5
0
The view is simply magnificent....
1
0
This place is simply fantastic. We loved it. The trails were a bit challenging, but it was a great experience. It's usually quiet here during the week. There's ample parking, so parking isn't a problem. The public restrooms were very clean. Don't forget to click on the map image, as it can be confusing otherwise. I don't recommend going with children, as the trails are very rocky and would be difficult for children. If you enjoy hiking and want to experience nature up close, this place is ideal. An absolute must for anyone looking for an adventurous hike.
4
0
Beautiful hiking trails. Warning: This difficult trail is only for experienced hikers. You'll need to do a lot of climbing and be free from vertigo. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water. Otherwise, enjoy the wonderful nature.
4
0
Beautiful views and a moderately difficult hike; definitely a worthwhile experience! However, the end of the trail was temporarily closed during our visit. We had to turn around and take a different route on the way back to Whirlpool State Park. Nevertheless, the walk was pleasant and scenic.
4
0
If you do the course in reverse direction, CCW, then the up hill gradient is more uniformly distributed.
0
0
And another very impressive view of the river
3
0
Just past the Niagara Glen Nature Center is a fenced area, and over the fence is an impressive view of the Niagara River in the gorge below. Walk to Niagara Glen Nature Trail to navigate the cliff sides and get to know the forest below, but some of the best views are from up top by the nature center, easily accessible from the parking area.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult are the hiking trails in Reservoir State Park?
The trails within Reservoir State Park itself are generally easy and well-maintained, featuring gentle paths suitable for all fitness levels. However, the park also serves as a gateway to the more challenging Niagara Gorge Trail System, which includes routes with steeper inclines and more rugged terrain.
Are there any good hikes for families with children?
Yes, the park is very family-friendly. A great option is the one-mile paved "Reservoir State Park Fitness Path," which is perfect for a leisurely walk or for strollers. For a short and scenic trail experience, consider the View of Niagara River loop from Queenston, which is an easy walk with rewarding views.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Dogs are generally permitted in New York State Parks, including Reservoir State Park, as long as they are kept on a leash. However, it's always a good practice to check for specific signage at trailheads, as some routes, particularly the more rugged gorge trails, may have restrictions.
Are there any circular walks available?
Yes, many of the trails in and around the park are loops. A picturesque walking path encircles the entire park. For a route that explores the nearby gorge system, the Artpark State Park loop — Niagara County is a popular choice that offers great views of the Niagara River.
What are some popular nearby parks for hiking?
The area is rich with excellent hiking spots. Nearby Devil's Hole State Park is a local favorite, offering trails that descend into the river gorge. Another highly-regarded option is Whirlpool State Park, which provides stunning overlooks of the Niagara Whirlpool and access to more gorge trails.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the hikes?
The scenery is quite diverse. Hikes within the park feature serene woodlands, open parkland, and vibrant wetlands around the reservoir. For more dramatic landscapes, trails leading into the Niagara Gorge offer breathtaking views of the river, rapids, and steep rock walls. The Niagara River Viewpoint – View of the Whirlpool Rapids loop from Niagara Glen Nature Reserve is particularly known for its spectacular river views.
Are there any waterfalls on the trails?
While the main attraction is the Niagara River and its powerful rapids, the trails within Reservoir State Park and the immediate vicinity do not feature significant waterfalls. The focus is more on the gorge, the reservoir, and the woodland scenery.
Is it possible to go hiking here in the winter?
Yes, winter hiking is possible, though you should be prepared for snow and ice, especially on the gorge trails. The park's gentler paths are also popular for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing when conditions permit. Always wear appropriate footwear with good traction.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this region?
The hiking routes around Reservoir State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning views of the Niagara Gorge and the mix of easy park paths with more challenging riverside trails.
How many hiking trails are in the Reservoir State Park area?
There are over 80 designated hiking routes in and around Reservoir State Park available on komoot. These range from short, easy walks within the park to more demanding hikes that explore the extensive Niagara Gorge trail network.
Where can I park to access the trails?
Reservoir State Park has its own parking areas, which are convenient for accessing the trails within the park. For trails that start in adjacent parks, both Devil's Hole State Park and Whirlpool State Park offer their own parking facilities close to the trailheads.
Are there any other activities available in the park besides hiking?
Absolutely. Reservoir State Park is a multi-use park with numerous recreational facilities. You can find tennis courts, baseball diamonds, basketball courts, and a roller hockey rink. It's also a great spot for fishing in the reservoir, picnicking, and birdwatching.
Most popular routes in Reservoir State Park
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
