Winter in our neck of the woods doesn’t have to feel so stagnant — shake things up and take a hike before the season is behind us!

By Catie Keller

(Above: Winter trail in WNY. Photo courtesy of the Erie Cattaraugus Rail Trail Inc.)

We all know winters in WNY can be long and dreary, but when the weather’s just right, it’s worth getting bundled up to beat the cabin fever. Thankfully, we have numerous opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, along with the casual winter stroll.

For those dedicated to the outdoors all year round, micro-spikes come in incredibly handy for icy patches on the trails.  Some local spots that carry micro-spikes include Sierra, REI Co-Op, and Gear for Adventure in Amherst.

For more casual hiking fans, these picks are still perfect for a late winter escape.

Tillman Road Wildlife Management Area

What was once farmland back in the 1940s is now a tranquil wooded delight tucked away in Clarence. Offering a 2.4-mile loop trail with varying offshoots and very little elevation, this wildlife refuge is a great place for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. This wetland area is home to turkeys, deer, herons, beavers, snapping turtles, raccoons, snakes and several species of frogs, as well as the occasional black bear. With a 300-foot boardwalk and a few makeshift shelters, this wildlife refuge is also considered a popular birding trail amongst locals, with a variety of flowers and interesting fungi to survey.

The refuge allows leashed dogs, so take extra precautions from potential ticks in the area.   

With the area typically being a bit muddy, it’s always wise to wear rainboots and insect repellent while exploring the area during warmer weather.

Como Lake Park

Along Cayuga Creek, surrounding Como Lake, this favorite amongst Lancaster locals is a popular sledding destination, as well as a prospective area for cross-country skiing. Boasting its 3.8-mile loop trail with 121 feet of elevation and numerous offshoot trails, this park is a lovely spot for dogs and the whole family. Biking and birding are other popular activities at this site; and be sure not to miss the infamous lighthouse next to the dam during your visit.

Overall, this is a convenient place to wander your own way through the woods’ nooks and spend time by the water, watching the snapping turtles.   

Erie County Forest

This combination of forest lots in Concord, Holland, and Sardinia is an opportune area for casual hiking, as well as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. It contains a conjunction of three trails: Silent Wood Trail, Old Scarbuck Trail and the Erie County Restoration Trail. Totaling almost 5 miles of trails, ranging from 170 to 213 feet in elevation, most of the trails loop around. Make sure to have a copy of a map handy in case cell service is limited.

Dogs are allowed on the trails, and hikers may have the chance to see horseback riding, along with woodpeckers, owls, hawks, salamanders, red foxes, or deer.

Sprague Brook Park

A popular destination for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing enthusiasts, this hike is a bit more challenging, yet offers gorgeous views overlooking the creek and the surrounding woods. Located in Glenwood, NY, the path is an 8.5-mile loop trail with 570 feet in elevation, and can be rocky in certain spots. Whether you’re searching for a peaceful place to take your dog for a walk or guided hiking groups, this space is sure to enchant!

There are a few ponds available for fishing, as well as a suitable sledding hill for the whole family to enjoy. Mountain biking, snowmobiling, tobogganing and camping are other popular activities here. Frequently spotted fauna and fungi include foxes, porcupines, snowshoe hare, woodpeckers, herons and a multitude of different mushrooms!

Genesee Valley Greenway State Park

Covering 84 miles of public, multi-use trails, this is an excellent area for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. It’s also a popular park for biking, fishing and equestrian trails. The closest access point to the trail is on Route 243 in Caneadea, which covers 13.4 miles with roughly 213 feet in elevation. Other nearby access points include Cuba, Hinsdale and Belfast.

Visitors who brave a majority of the trek can see the Keshequa Creek gorge and smaller waterfalls in Sonyea State Forest, passing through Letchworth State Park and various farmlands. Lots of maple, pine and oak trees surround the area, and it’s a great chance to see osprey, hawks, wild turkeys, deer, beavers, foxes, fishers and the occasional black bear.

Leashed dogs are allowed, and there are a variety of events that are held, including group snowshoeing and cross-country skiing meetups.

Pop Warner Rail Trail in Springville

Along part of the Erie Cattaraugus Rail Trail in Springville, a well-maintained pathway opened to the public in 2016. There are two primary trails: a 5.8-mile rail trail, along with a 1.8-mile trail running from the south end to the north end of town. The terrain is very flat, making it handicapped accessible, and leashed dogs are welcome.

This spot is a great opportunity for biking, cross-country skiing and getting a glimpse of the nearby woods and streams. There is a wide array of native wildflowers, along with a few murals and a free little library to peruse while on the trail!

Be sure to get outside and explore the beauty of these spaces before winter comes to an end later this month. Remember to always go at your own pace and leave no trace!