Highlight • Rest Area
Ellicott Creek Park
Cycling
5.0
(2)
Hiking
5.0
(1)
Ellicott Creek Park is a sprawling 165-acre public park located in the Town of Tonawanda, Erie County, New York, just northeast of Buffalo. Situated between the scenic Tonawanda Creek and Ellicott Creek, this facility offers a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities at an elevation of approximately 175 meters. It stands as one of Erie County's original "Heritage" parks, providing a vital green space within the Western New York region.
Visitors consistently praise the park for its diverse offerings, making it a popular destination for various outdoor activities. Many appreciate the extensive network of paved trails, perfect for walking, cycling, and rollerblading along the picturesque creek banks. The availability of numerous picnic areas, including charming historical stone structures, also makes it a favorite spot for family gatherings and events.
Before visiting, it's helpful to know that access to Ellicott Creek Park is free and it's open to the public year-round. The park features relatively flat terrain, making it accessible for most visitors, though comfortable footwear is always recommended for exploring the trails. Parking is generally available, and the park's location in the Town of Tonawanda makes it easily reachable for residents of Buffalo, Amherst, and North Tonawanda. For those considering public transport, options are available to reach the vicinity of Ellicott Creek Park.
The park is a year-round destination, offering different experiences with each season. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the Ellicott Creek Park trails, disc golf course, and water access for kayaking and fishing. Fall brings vibrant foliage, while winter transforms the park into a snowy playground with opportunities for sledding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The park's inclusive playground, opened in 2023, ensures fun for all ages and abilities, making it a truly family-friendly destination.
For those looking to explore the park's natural beauty, the paved trails offer excellent loop walks along the creek. These routes connect to the broader Ellicott Creek Bike Path and even the Erie Canalway Trail, providing options for longer rides or walks. While there isn't one single designated "highlight route," the paths along both Ellicott Creek and Tonawanda Creek are highly recommended for their scenic views and ease of access.
Visitors often highlight the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to observe local wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for Ellicott Creek Park bird watching. The Ellicott Island Bark Park, accessible via a footbridge, is a standout feature for dog owners, allowing pets to roam freely. The park's historical significance, with structures built by Works Progress Administration crews in the 1930s, also adds a unique charm to the experience.
Whether you're interested in a leisurely stroll, a family picnic, or an active day of cycling, Ellicott Creek Park offers a wealth of options. You can discover various Ellicott Creek Park trails popular routes and plan your visit using komoot, which provides detailed maps and insights into the best trails for hiking, cycling, and walking. With its diverse facilities and natural beauty, it's a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts in Erie County.
Tips
July 2, 2024
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Ellicott Creek Park
4
hikers
7.13km
01:48
10m
10m
Embark on the Ellicott Creek and Canalway Trail Loop for an easy hike that blends urban convenience with natural beauty. This route offers picturesque water views as you follow Ellicott Creek, crossing charming iron bridges along the way. You will cover 4.4 miles (7.1 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 30 feet (9 metres), making it a gentle walk that takes about 1 hour and 47 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit to this trail is straightforward, as it is generally accessible throughout the year. You will find ample parking available at Ellicott Creek Park, which serves as a convenient starting point for your adventure. Restrooms are also located along the route, ensuring a comfortable experience during your time outdoors.
This trail is notable for its pleasant mix of landscapes and the chance to spot local wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and various bird species, especially around Ellicott Island Park. The paved terrain makes it a versatile option, welcoming not only hikers but also those who enjoy jogging or biking.
12.3km
03:06
10m
10m
Embark on the Ellicott Creek Trailway, a moderate hiking route spanning 7.7 miles (12.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 41 feet (12 metres). This trail offers a pleasant journey along the banks of Ellicott Creek, where you can enjoy open water views and pass through the University at Buffalo North Campus. Expect to spend about 3 hours and 5 minutes exploring this scenic path, crossing several bridges that enhance the picturesque landscape. You might even spot local wildlife like birds and deer as you go. The paved surface makes for a smooth and enjoyable experience. You can easily access the Ellicott Creek Trailway, which provides practical amenities like parking lots and restrooms conveniently located near its access points. The entire route is paved, making it a welcoming option for various users, including those with strollers or wheelchairs. Consider starting your hike in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, ensuring a relaxed outing. This trail is a great choice for a leisurely day outdoors. The Ellicott Creek Trailway stands out for its unique blend of natural beauty and urban accessibility, following the winding path of the creek. It offers a chance to connect with nature without venturing far from developed areas. The trail's paved surface and minimal elevation make it an inclusive option for many, highlighting its role as a community asset. It's a perfect example of how green spaces can be integrated into a bustling environment, providing a peaceful escape.
Details
Informations
Elevation 180 m
Weather
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Today
Friday 12 June
26°C
18°C
16 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 26.0 km/h
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular trails or routes for walking and cycling in Ellicott Creek Park?
Ellicott Creek Park offers a network of paved trails ideal for walking, cycling, and rollerblading. The paths along both Ellicott Creek and Tonawanda Creek are highly recommended for their scenic views and ease of access. These trails also connect to the broader Ellicott Creek Bike Path and the Erie Canalway Trail, providing options for longer rides or walks beyond the park's boundaries.
What is the terrain like in Ellicott Creek Park, and how difficult are the trails?
The park features relatively flat terrain, making it accessible and suitable for most visitors. The trails are generally paved, offering an easy experience for walkers, cyclists, and families. There are no significant elevation changes, so it's considered a novice-friendly area for activities like disc golf and casual strolls.
Are there any specific landmarks, viewpoints, or natural features worth seeking out in Ellicott Creek Park?
Beyond the scenic creek views, visitors can explore historical stone structures built by Works Progress Administration (WPA) crews in the 1930s, which add a unique charm. Ellicott Island, accessible via a footbridge, is another notable feature. The park also boasts diverse plant life and is a good spot for observing local wildlife, including deer, foxes, and various bird species.
How is parking availability at Ellicott Creek Park, especially during peak times?
Parking is generally available throughout Ellicott Creek Park. However, during peak seasons, especially summer weekends and holidays, parking lots can fill up quickly. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended to secure a spot, particularly if you plan to use popular picnic areas or facilities.
Is Ellicott Creek Park family-friendly, and what activities are available for children?
Absolutely! Ellicott Creek Park is very family-friendly. It features multiple children's play areas, including a new inclusive playground that opened in 2023, designed to be accessible for all children and featuring a sensory walkway. The flat, paved trails are perfect for family walks and bike rides, and numerous picnic areas are available for gatherings.
Is Ellicott Creek Park dog-friendly, and are there specific areas for pets?
Yes, Ellicott Creek Park is dog-friendly. A standout feature for dog owners is the Ellicott Island Bark Park, which is a designated area where dogs can run unleashed. This area is accessible via a footbridge, providing a safe and fun space for pets to play.
What kind of winter activities can be enjoyed at Ellicott Creek Park?
Ellicott Creek Park transforms into a winter wonderland, offering several seasonal activities. Visitors can enjoy a dedicated sled hill for tubing and sledding. The park's ungroomed trails are also suitable for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, providing a peaceful way to experience the park's natural beauty in the colder months.
Are there accessible facilities for visitors with mobility challenges at Ellicott Creek Park?
Yes, the park has made efforts to be accessible. The paved trails offer smooth surfaces suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Additionally, the new inclusive playground, opened in 2023, was specifically designed to be accessible for all, including a sensory walkway, ensuring that children of all abilities can enjoy the play areas.
Are there public restrooms available in Ellicott Creek Park?
Yes, public restrooms are available within Ellicott Creek Park, typically near the main recreational areas and picnic shelters. These facilities are maintained by the Erie County Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry.
Can I fish or launch a kayak/canoe in Ellicott Creek Park?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity along both Ellicott Creek and Tonawanda Creek within the park. Additionally, there is a seasonal kayak and canoe launch available, providing convenient access to the water for paddlers to explore the creeks.
What types of wildlife can be seen in Ellicott Creek Park?
Ellicott Creek Park is home to a variety of wildlife. Visitors might spot opossums, white-tailed deer, rabbits, foxes, raccoons, weasels, and squirrels. Birdwatchers can enjoy observing hawks, ducks, geese, and various woodpeckers. The creeks also support diverse fish, frogs, turtles, and salamanders, especially in areas with enhanced native plant shorelines.