Trail Overview
This 8-mile Empire State Trail section starts at Buffalo Harbor State Park on the shore of Lake Erie, where there is ample free parking, visitor services, and a formal “Gateway” marking the beginning/end of the Empire State Trail. From the state park, the route follows the Shoreline Trail north through downtown Buffalo, passing through the harbor area, Canalside, and several city parks. Five of the 8 miles are paved off-road path, dedicated to walkers and bicyclists only. However, several sections are designated on the shoulders of public roadways. Street parking and visitor services are available in Buffalo at many locations a short distance off the trail. Heading north from Wilson Centennial Park, the Shoreline Trail runs under the Peace Bridge (which provides a bicycle/pedestrian connection to Canada), and continues north for 2.5 miles alongside Niagara Street on a state-of-the-art protected cycle track. North of Hertel Avenue, the EST route follows the off-road Shoreline Trail, on the bank of the Niagara River.