Although some believe the Canada side of the Falls is more beautiful, the U.S. side is also spectacular — and wonderful for running. Like the Canada side, a bike path runs alongside the Niagara Scenic Parkway. The prettiest section for running is from the Aquarium of Niagara, heading south to Niagara State Park, with a loop around Goat Island. Here, you’ll get a great view of the falls from Cave of the Winds. This is an out and back run of ~4 miles, including the loop out to and around Goat Island.
Longer Run: A multi-use path runs alongside the Niagara Scenic Parkway for another 4 miles south of Niagara State Park, to I-190 (North Grand Island Bridge). The Parkway is busy, but the path is decently separated and alongside the water. A full out and back is 7.2 miles (11.6 km). Also, you can combine this with the Canada side path — use the Rainbow Bridge, which pedestrians are allowed to cross (about 1 km).
Goat Island
Although some believe the Canada side of the Falls is more beautiful, the U.S. side is also spectacular — and wonderful for running. Like the Canada side, a bike path runs alongside the Niagara Scenic Parkway. The prettiest section for running is from the Aquarium of Niagara, heading south to Niagara State Park, with a loop around Goat Island. Here, you’ll get a great view of the falls from Cave of the Winds. This is an out and back run of ~4 miles, including the loop out to and around Goat Island.
Longer Run: A multi-use path runs alongside the Niagara Scenic Parkway for another 4 miles south of Niagara State Park, to I-190 (North Grand Island Bridge). The Parkway is busy, but the path is decently separated and alongside the water. A full out and back is 7.2 miles (11.6 km). Also, you can combine this with the Canada side path — use the Rainbow Bridge, which pedestrians are allowed to cross (about 1 km).
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Essentials
Aquarium to Goat Island Loop: 4 miles (6.4 km); Longer run is 7.2 miles (11.6 km)
200 feet
North End: Aquarium of Niagara; South End: I-190 North Grand Island Br.
The classic Niagara Falls run, located on the Canada side. A wonderful path starts near Rainbow Bridge, heading south for 6 km to Kingsbridge Park. Great views of the falls and the Niagara River. On return, can use Queen Victoria Park. VIDEO OF ROUTE!
Pleasant, green running in the northern part of Niagara Falls. It's 7.5 km one-way from the Whirlpool Aero Car to Brock's Monument in Queenston Park on a paved multi-use trail. Can continue from there along Niagara River for up to 20 km to Niagara-on-the-Lake!
Pretty town on Lake Ontario known for the Shaw summer theater festival, wineries, historic homes and sites. We've designed a 10.7 km 'grand tour', including a 4 km loop of Fort George, flower-filled Queen St., lakeshore, and Historic Old Town.
One of the better off-road running options outside of the immediate Niagara Falls area. 36 km path follows the Welland Canal between Lake Ontario in St. Catharines to the Lake Erie shore in Port Colbourne. Nice water views and flat!
For those looking for a slightly more rugged but not too challenging trail run, the section of the Bruce Trail close to Niagara Falls is a good option. Mainly wooded in the 5.2 km from Brock's Monument to the 405. Many more km possible
Largest city in the Niagara region is known as "The Garden City". Lots of wonderful parks and trails near downtown, and some wonderful waterfront running in North St. Catharines along Lake Ontario, Port Dalhousie, & the Welland Canal.
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Essentials
Aquarium to Goat Island Loop: 4 miles (6.4 km); Longer run is 7.2 miles (11.6 km)
200 feet
North End: Aquarium of Niagara; South End: I-190 North Grand Island Br.
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