If you’re anything like us, you’re itching to get outside as soon as spring has sprung! And while you’re busy making plans to do outdoorsy things, don’t overlook the picturesque picnic spots and spectacularly scenic hikes in Buffalo and the surrounding areas. You’ll definitely want to set aside an afternoon for picnics and hikes – two popular warm-weather activities. Luckily, there are lots of places you can enjoy both. You don’t have to waste time searching online for “picnic hiking trails near me,” though. We’ve already scoured the area, and if you ask us, the following eight treks are the best hikes in Buffalo when craving a scenic stroll paired with an outdoor meal.

1. Chestnut Ridge (Orchard Park)
6121 Chestnut Ridge Rd, Orchard Park, NY 14127, USA
Paradox Wolf - Flickr
Chestnut Ridge has some of the best picnic spots around, and you don't even have to get your hiking boots muddy to get to most of them! Spread your blanket out on the sprawling grounds of the park or take a seat at a picnic table under a pavilion.
2. Letchworth State Park (Castile)
1 Letchworth State Park, Castile, NY 14427, USA
Darryl Kenyon - Flickr
Who wouldn't enjoy a picnic with this backdrop? Letchworth State Park is billed as the "Grand Canyon of the East" and is one of our favorite scenic spots to picnic. There are several hiking trails to utilize at the park with varying difficulties, but the end views are all similarly striking!
3. Wilkeson Pointe (Buffalo)
225 Fuhrmann Boulevard, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
Pat Kerl - GoogleMaps
Wilkeson Pointe is one of the best picnic hikes within city limits. There are plenty of benches and picnic tables available for seating or choose a spot on the dunes for a more interesting approach. Walking along the waterfront with a picnic basket in hand is enjoyable either way.
4. Zoar Valley (Cattaraugus)
Zoar Valley, Persia, NY 14070, USA
Andy Arthur - Flickr
If you plan on taking a picnic hike to Zoar Valley, you might want to consider packing a lunch in your backpack. These trails are a bit more challenging than the rest, but look on the bright side – at least you'll work up an appetite for that delicious picnic lunch!
5. Griffis Sculpture Park (East Otto)
6902 Rohr Rd, East Otto, NY 14729, USA
Griffis Sculpture Park & The Essex Arts Center - Facebook
A quick drive and a short hike up the hill result in an amazing picnic experience at Griffis Sculpture Park. Bring the kids to play at the artsy playground or simply sit back and relax while you enjoy the peace and quiet of nature as you eat. You'll have great company with the numerous sculptures situated throughout this whimsical park!
6. Walton Woods (Amherst)
John James Audubon Parkway, John James Audubon Pkwy, Getzville, NY, USA
Leon Luscius - GoogleMaps
Walton Woods is one of Buffalo's best-kept secrets. It's also a perfect place for a picnic hike! Walk along the paved pathways until you find a spot that calls to you.
7. Charles E. Burchfield Nature and Art Center (West Seneca)
2001 Union Rd, West Seneca, NY 14224, USA
The New Charles E. Burchfield Nature & Art Center - Facebook
As if nature wasn't already beautiful enough on its own, the Charles E. Burchfield Nature and Art Center had to one-up it! This destination combines hiking and art in one inspiring experience. Pack your picnic lunch and dine al fresco at any spot along the trails.
8. Emery Park (South Wales)
2084 Emery Rd, South Wales, NY 14139, USA
Evan Roden - GoogleMaps
Emery Park is similar to Chestnut Ridge, in that there are several spots perfect for a picnic hike. Don't forget to explore the park a bit before you pack it up to head home!

So, what do you think? Are these the best hikes in Buffalo for picnicking? Where is your favorite place to picnic near Buffalo (whether it requires a hike or not)? Know of any other scenic hikes in Buffalo? Tell us!

You don’t have to be an avid hiker to enjoy the outdoors in Buffalo. There are treks for hikers of all skill levels. Consider yourself a novice hiker? Check out these easy hikes in Buffalo.

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Best Hikes In Buffalo

Daniella DiRienzo | April 13, 2022

What are the most scenic hikes in Buffalo?

When searching for scenic hikes in Buffalo, don’t overlook the Tifft Nature Preserve. Just a short, five-minute drive from downtown Buffalo, it couldn’t be easier to access. But its accessibility isn’t its only alluring feature. There’s also the fact that it’s one of the biggest municipal nature preserves in New York, boasting more than 250 acres of restored habitat and five miles of trails and boardwalks.

Aside from the best hikes in Buffalo, what are some other ways to enjoy the outdoors in the city?

Outdoor enthusiasts won’t be lacking in things to do in Buffalo. Among the city’s can’t-miss sites is Buffalo Harbor State Park. A waterfront paradise, the park is nestled along Lake Erie and boasts amazing waterfront views. The park’s perks also include a marina, restaurant, boat launches, a fish cleaning station, beach, and nautical-themed playground. What’s more, the park is adjacent to the Tifft Nature Preserve, making it easy to visit both in one day.

Are there any kid-friendly hikes around Buffalo?

There are quite a few kid-friendly hikes around Buffalo and the surrounding areas including the Glen Falls Trail Loop. Located in Williamsville, the 2.5-mile loop trail is paved, making it easy to navigate – even with a stroller in tow. Not only is the trail easy to traverse, but it’s stunning, too! True to its name, it leads to a waterfall, which is a breathtaking sight throughout the seasons.

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