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Zoar Valley Multiple Use Area
4.7 ★★★★★ 546 Google reviews · Running trail in Gowanda, New York · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Zoar Valley Multiple Use Area's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Zoar Valley Multiple Use Area
“These rocky behemoths, carved out by the relentless flow of the Cattaraugus Creek, serve as the perfect backdrop for the most scenic hikes I've ever embarked upon.”
“The creek itself, meandering through the gorge, adds a serene soundtrack to the entire experience, its waters dancing in the sunlight.”
“Very easy hike, barely any elevation change.”
Zoar Valley was awesome. The water was so perfect, Although, for some reason I didn't think you could swim and we were not completely prepared to get wet, we did anyways... Next time we will certainly take a floaty and try to ride the Rapids down river.
They have so many different trails. Easy to difficult. Great place to bring the family. Pack a lunch and spend the day. Lots of nature.
My experience of the valley as a beginner was pleasant. Maybe it’s the Beauty of the trails but there really were no indicators or mini maps in the area i was in, needless to say i got lost a couple times. Not so much lost, just got a dead end and wasted time trying to get to my destination.
I can't believe I've never been here before! So picturesque, especially right now with leaves changing. It was a beautiful sunny day and barely any one there. Very easy hike, barely any elevation change.
Trail conditions & character
“These rocky behemoths, carved out by the relentless flow of the Cattaraugus Creek, serve as the perfect backdrop for the most scenic hikes I've ever embarked upon.”
“The moment you step into Zoar Valley, you're greeted by the breathtaking sight of steep, towering cliffs that seem to touch the sky, some rising as high as 400 feet.”
“These rocky behemoths, carved out by the relentless flow of the Cattaraugus Creek, serve as the perfect backdrop for the most scenic hikes I've ever embarked upon.”
“The creek itself, meandering through the gorge, adds a serene soundtrack to the entire experience, its waters dancing in the sunlight.”
“Each visit feels like a new discovery, a chance to connect with nature on a profound level.”
Plan your run at Zoar Valley Multiple Use Area
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- Websitedec.ny.gov
- Phone(716) 379-6364
Hours
| Monday | 6 AM–8 PM |
| Tuesday | 6 AM–8 PM |
| Wednesday | 6 AM–8 PM |
| Thursday | 6 AM–8 PM |
| Friday | 6 AM–8 PM |
| Saturday | 6 AM–8 PM |
| Sunday | 6 AM–8 PM |
Running trails near Gowanda
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Larkin Woods/Franklin Gulf County Park Trailhead
4.8 ★★★★★ 122 reviews
Town of Brant State Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 101 reviews
Eighteenmile Creek Conservation Park
4.9 ★★★★★ 60 reviews
Scenic wilderness featuring waterfalls, hiking trails, a creek and 18-mile gorge.