The best walks and hikes around Lackawanna
3.3
(3)
23
hikers
12
hikes
Hikes around Lackawanna are characterized by lakeside paths and urban greenways. The terrain is generally flat, featuring routes that follow the Lake Erie shoreline and navigate through nature preserves situated near the city of Buffalo. These trails offer a mix of waterfront and parkland environments.
Best hiking trails around Lackawanna
- The most popular hiking route is Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Greenway to Buffalo Main Lighthouse — Buffalo Waterfront, a 6.2 mile (9.9 km) trail that takes about 2 hours…
Last updated: July 11, 2026
6.23km
01:35
20m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
984m
00:15
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
11
hikers
5.19km
01:18
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
4.22km
01:04
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Lackawanna
Tips from the Community
Nice walk. Current opening hours can be found on the Facebook page. Volunteers work very hard. Many volunteers are out and about and enjoy chatting.
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I reviewed the USS Little Rock as part of the Buffalo Naval Park tour. It was excellent. However, if you'd like to tour the Little Rock on its own, that's certainly possible. It's an unforgettable tour. However, you have to pay to see all three boats, so don't miss the opportunity to see the other two.
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Great area for walking and enjoying the sunset
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The outer harbor is becoming a great destination. There's nothing technical here. Enjoy the ride and the view. Reddy Bikeshare is available there, too. Download the app and ride from the lighthouse (closed access) to the canal at the other end. Great for sunsets.
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A beautifully preserved World War II submarine that sank the Japanese cruiser Nagara on its first mission in 1944. The engine room sound reproduction gives a good impression of what it would have been like on board the ship with its diesel engines running.
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Nice marina with small snack bars and seating areas.
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Buffalo is a city in the U.S. state of New York on the shores of Lake Erie. Its past as an industrial center in the early 20th century is still evident in its magnificent Neo-Classical, Beaux-Arts, and Art Deco architecture. Buffalo's notable landmarks include the 121-meter-tall City Hall, the Darwin D. Martin House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and the Greek Revival-style Albright-Knox Art Gallery, which houses works by Picasso and Warhol.
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Open to runners, walkers, bike riders, and pedestrians in general, the Tifft Street Pier looks over the Buffalo Harbor South Entrance and a few different grain elevators. You can run along the water for miles in both directions if you stick to the paved paths.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any family-friendly hiking trails in Lackawanna County?
Yes, the region offers several great options for families. The Lakeshore Trail in Lackawanna State Park is a popular choice, providing easy, scenic paths along the water. Many sections of the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail are also paved and relatively flat, making them suitable for strollers and hikers of all ages.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Many trails in Lackawanna County are dog-friendly, but policies can vary by park. Generally, dogs are welcome in state parks like Lackawanna State Park as long as they are on a leash. It's always a good practice to check the specific regulations for the park you plan to visit before you go.
Where can I find hikes with waterfalls in the area?
For waterfalls, Nay Aug Park in Scranton is the premier destination. The park features a stunning gorge with beautiful waterfalls that are accessible via its trail system. It's a local favorite for those seeking dramatic water features on their hike.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Absolutely. If you prefer a walk that brings you back to your starting point without retracing your steps, the Tiff Nature Preserve loop is a great option. Many parks, including Lackawanna State Park, also feature multiple interconnected trails that allow you to create your own loops of varying lengths.
What are some good places to park for the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail?
The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail has several dedicated trailheads with parking. Popular access points in Scranton include the 7th Avenue Trailhead and the Broadway Street Trailhead. These provide convenient starting points for exploring different sections of this extensive trail.
Are there any trails with good scenic views or vistas?
Yes, many trails reward hikers with expansive views. Trails within Lackawanna State Park offer lovely vistas over the 198-acre lake. For more elevated, panoramic scenery, the trails at the Dick & Nancy Eales Preserve at Moosic Mountain are known for their beautiful overlooks of the surrounding landscape.
What is the best time of year to hike in Lackawanna County?
Hiking is a year-round activity here, with each season offering a unique experience. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers lush green forests, and autumn is famous for its spectacular fall foliage. In winter, many trails are suitable for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, offering a completely different perspective on the landscape.
How long is the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail?
The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail is an extensive multi-use trail that spans approximately 70 miles. It follows the course of the Lackawanna River, connecting numerous communities throughout the valley. You can hike short sections or plan longer point-to-point treks along its length.
Are there any easy trails suitable for beginners?
Yes, the area is very welcoming to beginners. A great place to start is the Greenway Nature Trail at Lakeside Park loop — Buffalo Waterfront, which is a straightforward and relatively flat path. Additionally, the main trails at McDade Park and the Lakeshore Trail at Lackawanna State Park are excellent, well-maintained options for a gentle hike.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Lackawanna?
The komoot community rates the trails here well. Reviewers often praise the diversity of the hikes available, from the serene lakeside paths at Lackawanna State Park to the historical and natural blend along the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail. The accessibility of beautiful natural features like waterfalls and forests so close to urban areas is a frequently mentioned highlight.
Are there any long-distance hiking options?
The primary long-distance route is the 70-mile Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, which can be tackled in sections or as a multi-day journey. For a moderately long day hike, consider the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Greenway to Buffalo Main Lighthouse — Buffalo Waterfront, which covers over 6 miles.
Are there any accessible or paved trails?
Yes, several sections of the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail are paved, making them accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, and those looking for a smooth, even surface. The Boulevard Ave. Trailhead in Scranton is one such access point to a paved section.
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