


Ellicott Creek Trailway Park
About
Ellicott Creek Trailway Park offers families a beautifully maintained, paved multi-use trail that's perfect for introducing kids to outdoor adventures. The smooth, flat surface makes it ideal for toddlers on balance bikes, beginning cyclists, and families with strollers, while the scenic creek views and shaded sections keep everyone engaged and comfortable throughout your journey.
Highlights
- ✓Smooth, well-maintained paved trail perfect for beginners and young riders
- ✓Beautiful creek views and natural scenery that keep kids engaged
- ✓Safe, car-free environment for children learning to bike or rollerblade
- ✓Shaded sections providing relief on hot summer days
- ✓Connection to larger trail network for families wanting longer adventures
Pro Tips
- 1.Park at the N Forest Road lot for easy trail access with restrooms nearby and plenty of space to unload bikes and gear
- 2.Visit on weekday mornings for the quietest experience,weekends after 10am can get crowded with cyclists and joggers
- 3.Bring bug spray during summer months as the creek area can attract mosquitoes, especially in shaded sections
- 4.Pack a blanket and snacks to enjoy a picnic break along one of the scenic creek overlooks midway through your ride
- 5.The trail connects to other paths in the system,download a trail map beforehand if you want to extend your adventure
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall mornings (7-10am) offer the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with spring wildflowers or autumn foliage along the creek. Weekday visits are less crowded than weekends, making them perfect for beginning cyclists who need extra space to practice.
What to Know
The park is free to visit with ample parking available. The paved trail is stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for families with varied mobility needs. There are no food vendors on-site, so pack water and snacks.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, though winter visits require appropriate gear and caution on potentially icy sections. Spring (April-May) offers blooming wildflowers, while fall (September-October) showcases stunning foliage. Summer can be humid but the shaded sections provide relief. Trail is typically plowed but check conditions before winter visits.
Nearby Eats
Stop at Ted's Hot Dogs (a Buffalo institution) just a few minutes away on Niagara Falls Boulevard for classic hot dogs and root beer, or visit Panera Bread on Maple Road for healthy kid-friendly options and quick service after your ride.
More Activities Near Amherst
Trillium Nature Center / Buffalo Audubon Society
Trillium Nature Center offers families an immersive outdoor classroom where kids can explore woodland trails, observe native wildlife, and participate in hands-on environmental programs. With its excellent 4.8-star rating and focus on local ecosystems, this nature preserve provides a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and educational discovery that keeps children engaged while learning about the natural world around them.
Glen Park
Glen Park is Amherst's go-to destination for family fun, offering something for everyone from toddlers to teens. With its popular splash pad for hot summer days, multiple playgrounds for different age groups, and plenty of open space for running around, it's the perfect spot for a few hours of outdoor entertainment. The well-maintained walking trails and pavilions make it ideal for extended family gatherings or casual weekend outings.
Amherst State Park
Amherst State Park is a welcoming neighborhood park that delivers all the essentials for a great family outing. With well-maintained playground equipment, expansive open fields perfect for impromptu soccer games or kite flying, and scenic walking paths that accommodate strollers, this park offers something for every member of the family without overwhelming younger children.
Hon. Shirley Chisholm (Audubon) branch - Amherst Public Library
The Hon. Shirley Chisholm branch offers a welcoming, modern library experience designed with families in mind. Beyond an impressive children's book collection, you'll find hands-on maker spaces where kids can explore STEM activities, regular storytimes that bring books to life, and educational programs tailored to different age groups that make learning fun and interactive.