How to Enjoy Nature at Zoar Valley in Buffalo New York

Surrounded by stunning scenery, Zoar Valley, a 2,927-acre park situated in Western New York just 30 miles south of Buffalo, offers the outdoor enthusiast a perfect place to hike, explore and photograph. Here are some ways to enjoy the scenery and stretches of awe-inspiring sights.

Things You'll Need

• Sturdy walking shoes
• Hiking boots
• Casual, comfortable clothing
• Camera
• Film

Instructions

1. Begin on Point Peter Road. Park in the lot at the end of Valentine Flats Road. You’ll see the trail, which will go to the left where it heads to Point Peter, a nice overlook. Follow it down the hill and head to your right, but be careful. It turns into a pretty steep incline. At the bottom of the hill, you’ll head toward the water’s edge. Known as “Little Paradise,” Valentine Flats boasts a beautiful view. It’s flat land completely surrounded by cliffs, waterfalls, and river beach. You’ll also find an abundance of raspberries and blackberries to pick.

2. View the amazing waterfalls. Zoar Valley's steep, stonewalled gorge creates truly breathtaking waterfalls. Some are called “cascades,” which rain down from the cliffs reaching heights of 500 feet. Waterman's Cascade is magnificent. Extremely graceful, it drops in a series of falls and rapids, widening as it plunges through a wooded and picturesque glen.

3. You'll be enchanted with the Gallery of Giants. It's home to over forty-five species of trees and rare native plants. The oldest trees are up to 500 years old. This spectacular site is now scientifically recognized as one of the largest remaining Eastern old growth forests in the Untied States. Here, you’ll find a variety of rugged and primeval treasures while walking through the area.

4. One of the best ways to enjoy Zoar Valley’s natural beauty is through hiking. The Zoar Valley Canyon is incredible. It glows golden and provides breathtaking scenery along with spectacular views. The more adventurous can set out on a group-kayaking trip along Cattaraugus Creek, while the less risky can enjoy floating leisurely in a canoe.

5. Enjoy fishing? This gorgeous wilderness has many wild, secluded streams. You’ll find some of the best freshwater fishing in North America that team with rare bird life, including nestling American Bald eagles and red shouldered hawks, frequently spotted soaring in and around the canyons.

Tips & Warnings

• Buffalo International Airport is served by numerous major airlines.

• Rent a car and drive from Buffalo to Zoar Valley. You'll take U.S. Route 62 south to Gowanda.

• For more information about Zoar Valley and lodging in the Gowanda area, call 800-724-0696 or visit the Gowanda website.

• Some Zoar Valley trails can be challenging for first-time visitors. If you do a little research ahead of time, you'll be prepared for making the best of your day.

Resources

• Gowanda Chamber