Century Ride around Erie County

New York

Erie County

Buffalo

Century Ride around Erie County

Hard

4.5

(6688)

8,508

riders

Century Ride around Erie County

Q: How challenging is the Century Ride around Erie County?

This route is classified as difficult and is a true test of endurance, requiring a very good fitness level. It's a 161-kilometer (100-mile) road ride, designed for cyclists who are comfortable with long, steady efforts.

Q: What is the terrain like on this century ride?

The terrain is predominantly smooth, consisting of 121 kilometers of asphalt and 38.3 kilometers of paved roads. You'll encounter very small segments of unknown or unpaved surfaces, but it's largely a road cycling experience.

Q: How long does it typically take to complete this century ride?

Komoot estimates the riding time for this 161-kilometer route to be approximately 7 hours. However, including stops for rest, food, and enjoying the scenery, you should plan for a full day of cycling, likely 8-10 hours or more depending on your pace.

Q: What can I see along the route?

The ride takes you past several interesting points. You'll cross the impressive Grand Island Bridges , ride sections of the Erie Canalway Trail and the Clarence Akron and Peanut Line Bike Pathways . Other highlights include Aqua Lane Park , The Brickhall , and the Tifft Street Pier , with Gallagher Beach offering waterfront views.

Q: What is the best time of year to ride the Century Ride around Erie County?

The best time for road cycling in Erie County is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder and more predictable, making for a more enjoyable long-distance ride. Always check the local forecast before you head out.

Q: Where can I park to access this route?

While the Komoot tour starts in Buffalo, specific parking details for this exact route are not provided. However, Buffalo offers various public parking options, especially near waterfront areas or parks that connect to cycling routes. Consider starting near a section of the Erie Canalway Trail or other public access points with available parking.

Q: Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees for this ride?

No, you do not need any special permits or pay entrance fees to cycle this route. It primarily uses public roads and established cycle paths that are free to access.

Q: Is this century ride dog-friendly?

As a long-distance road cycling route, this ride is not typically suitable for dogs. While some sections might pass through parks where leashed dogs are allowed, the majority of the route is on roads and dedicated cycle paths not designed for accompanying pets.

Q: Does this route connect with other cycling paths?

Yes, the route incorporates significant portions of well-known paths. You'll ride along sections of the Erie Canalway Trail (Buffalo to Fairgrounds), the Erie Canalway Trail (Hertel Avenue to Tonawanda), and the Peanut Line Trail, among others.

Q: Are there places to stop for food or water along the way?

Given its length, planning for food and water stops is essential. The route passes through various towns and populated areas within Erie County, so you will find opportunities to resupply at cafes, convenience stores, or public parks. It's always wise to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for the more rural segments.

06:57

161km

450m

Road cycling

The Century Ride around Erie County offers a truly diverse road cycling experience, blending waterfront vistas with rural charm. You'll pedal through farmlands and past vineyards, enjoying the changing scenery from the expansive Lake Erie shoreline to the quiet countryside. Highlights include crossing the Grand Island Bridges and cruising along sections of the Erie Canalway Trail, providing a mix of natural beauty and historical context.

This difficult 100.0-mile (160.9 km) route, with 1481 feet (452 metres) of elevation gain, is designed for experienced cyclists and typically takes around 6 hours and 57 minutes. While there isn't a single designated trailhead, you can access various segments from public parking areas near highlights like Aqua Lane Park. Plan to start early, especially on weekends, and carry ample water for this long-distance journey.

Erie County is notable for its extensive network of cycling paths and roads, connecting to larger systems like the Empire State Trail. This route exemplifies the region's commitment to cycling, offering a challenging yet rewarding ride that showcases the area's varied landscapes and historical significance. It's a fantastic way to experience the best century rides Erie County has to offer.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Tips

Includes a movable bridge

Check opening times.

After 155 km for 109 m

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

8.60 km

Aqua Lane Park

Highlight • Rest Area

A thoughtfully planned out park, Aqua Lane Park was created with ideas for not just its people visitors but also its animal visitors. Park planners planted native plants including sunflowers, milkweeds, asters, bee-balm, and goldenrods, all great plants for pollinators like butterflies and bees.

Tip by

12.5 km

Grand Island Bridges

Highlight • Bridge

Though both of the Grand Island Bridges look like they were built in 1930, actually the northbound traffic bridge is nearly 30 years younger, being built in 1963, while the 1935 southbound traffic bridge is 30 years older. The second bridge was built to maintain the original aesthetic.

Tip by

54.4 km

Erie Canalway Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

Part of the greater Empire State Trail, the Erie Canalway Trail is 360 miles long. The segment from Buffalo to Lyons is described by the National Park Service as "Level cycling along the canal with charming canal villages to explore along the way. This is an excellent place for a long weekend cycling trip"

Tip by

87.4 km

Clarence Akron and Peanut Line Bike Pathways

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

This bikeway is a shorter branch of a series of countryside rails to trails. A good turnaround point if you are riding out from downtown Buffalo. In the winter these trails can be used for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

Tip by

95.9 km

The Brickhall

Highlight • Religious Site

Formaly known as the First Presbyterian Church, this church was erected in 1844. It was built with early Gothic Revival church architecture. Today it is a space rented out as a venue for weddings and parties.

Tip by

108 km

Town Line Road

Highlight (Segment) • Historical Site

According to Town Line Legend in 1861, 125 men voted resolution to secede from the United States. Years later 1946, Town Line held a ceremony in to "rejoin" the Union. This gave Town Line the nickname "last holdout of the Confederacy”.

Tip by

153 km

Tifft Street Pier

Highlight • Viewpoint

An elegantly designed pier; the Tiff Street Pier is one of five access areas to TWMLA. The pier was added as part of the Buffalo Outer Harbor Parkway project. It is a pedestrian pier and popular for fishing and watching the massive grain elevators.

Tip by

153 km

Gallagher Beach

Highlight • Beach

A dark sand beach, Gallagher Beach looks a little bit out of place among the old industrial giants in the area. But this beach is hidden gem, catch sun bathers and swimmers there in the summer time enjoying the warmth!

Tip by

161 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

77.8 km

70.8 km

9.41 km

2.68 km

292 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

121 km

38.3 km

1.19 km

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (280 m)

Lowest point (170 m)

Weather

Today

Tuesday 13 October

24°C

18°C

26 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 34.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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Frequently Asked Questions

How challenging is the Century Ride around Erie County?

This route is classified as difficult and is a true test of endurance, requiring a very good fitness level. It's a 161-kilometer (100-mile) road ride, designed for cyclists who are comfortable with long, steady efforts.

What is the terrain like on this century ride?

The terrain is predominantly smooth, consisting of 121 kilometers of asphalt and 38.3 kilometers of paved roads. You'll encounter very small segments of unknown or unpaved surfaces, but it's largely a road cycling experience.

How long does it typically take to complete this century ride?

Komoot estimates the riding time for this 161-kilometer route to be approximately 7 hours. However, including stops for rest, food, and enjoying the scenery, you should plan for a full day of cycling, likely 8-10 hours or more depending on your pace.

What can I see along the route?

The ride takes you past several interesting points. You'll cross the impressive Grand Island Bridges, ride sections of the Erie Canalway Trail and the Clarence Akron and Peanut Line Bike Pathways. Other highlights include Aqua Lane Park, The Brickhall, and the Tifft Street Pier, with Gallagher Beach offering waterfront views.

What is the best time of year to ride the Century Ride around Erie County?

The best time for road cycling in Erie County is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder and more predictable, making for a more enjoyable long-distance ride. Always check the local forecast before you head out.

Where can I park to access this route?

While the Komoot tour starts in Buffalo, specific parking details for this exact route are not provided. However, Buffalo offers various public parking options, especially near waterfront areas or parks that connect to cycling routes. Consider starting near a section of the Erie Canalway Trail or other public access points with available parking.

Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees for this ride?

No, you do not need any special permits or pay entrance fees to cycle this route. It primarily uses public roads and established cycle paths that are free to access.

Is this century ride dog-friendly?

As a long-distance road cycling route, this ride is not typically suitable for dogs. While some sections might pass through parks where leashed dogs are allowed, the majority of the route is on roads and dedicated cycle paths not designed for accompanying pets.

Does this route connect with other cycling paths?

Yes, the route incorporates significant portions of well-known paths. You'll ride along sections of the Erie Canalway Trail (Buffalo to Fairgrounds), the Erie Canalway Trail (Hertel Avenue to Tonawanda), and the Peanut Line Trail, among others.

Are there places to stop for food or water along the way?

Given its length, planning for food and water stops is essential. The route passes through various towns and populated areas within Erie County, so you will find opportunities to resupply at cafes, convenience stores, or public parks. It's always wise to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for the more rural segments.

Is the Century Ride around Erie County a loop trail?

Yes, this route is designed as a loop, starting and ending in the Buffalo area. This means you will return to your starting point without needing to arrange transportation back.

What should I wear or bring for this century ride?

For a ride of this distance and difficulty, wear appropriate cycling attire, including padded shorts and layers suitable for changing weather. Essential items include a helmet, plenty of water, energy snacks, a basic bike repair kit (spare tube, pump, levers), navigation device, and identification. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also highly recommended.