
As outdoor enthusiasts, we all know that finding suitable hiking trails can be a challenge, especially if you’re visiting a new area. But, if you’re in or around Erie, PA, you’re in luck – plenty of hiking options are available.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a challenge or a beginner hoping to enjoy the great outdoors, this post will discuss some of the best hiking options near Erie. So, put on your hiking boots, grab a map, and get ready to explore the area’s natural beauty.
Amazing Hiking Trails Await
With its rolling hills, lush forests, and crystal-clear streams, the Erie area is a fantastic place for hiking enthusiasts to explore. From leisurely walks to challenging terrain, the area’s hiking trails offer something for everyone, with stunning scenery to enjoy at every turn.
1. Asbury Woods Nature Center
Nestled just a short distance southwest of the bustling city of Erie lies a hidden gem known as the Asbury Woods Nature Center. Here, visitors can escape the busy city life and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of over five miles of hiking trails meandering through the serene wooded areas and lush wetlands, abundant with local flora and fauna.
Additionally, educational exhibits and activities are available to enlighten and engage those seeking to learn more about the ecosystem and environment they are exploring.

2. Presque Isle State Park
If you’re on the hunt for a diverse natural experience, Presque Isle State Park is the place to be. This state park is the most visited in the state, and for good reasons. Here, visitors have access to an impressive 11-mile network of hiking trails that meander through a variety of terrains, from sandy beaches and picturesque dunes to lush forests.
Hikers of different skill levels can enjoy the scenic pathways as the trails offer a range of difficulty levels, from leisurely strolls to moderate inclines. Additionally, the park provides ADA-accessible options so everyone can appreciate the natural beauty.
3. Erie Bluffs State Park
Erie Bluffs State Park is the ultimate challenge if you’re looking for an experience that will get your heart racing and immerse you in the natural beauty. Nestled west of Erie, the park offers hiking enthusiasts over five miles of thrilling trails with varying degrees of difficulty that wind through various exceptional habitats.
From dense forests to peaceful wetlands and awe-inspiring lakefront bluffs, every section of the trail presents its unique charm. Of course, you’ll want to be in good shape to tackle the park’s steep, rugged landscapes, but the breathtaking views of Lake Erie are well worth the effort.
4. Headwaters Park
Headwaters Park is a perfect place to head to for an afternoon of hiking. With multiple hiking trails that wind through the lush landscape and cover nearly two miles, it’s the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. The park’s trails offer a variety of difficulty levels, from easy flat terrain to sloping inclines; there is also an ADA-accessible section.
Along the way, hikers may have the opportunity to see wildlife, including birds, deer, squirrels, and more. Additionally, the trail network offers various scenic vistas – from tranquil streams to wetlands (with an observation deck) to verdant forests. So whether you’re looking for a quick afternoon hike or an all-day adventure, the hiking trails at Headwaters Park will surely exceed your expectations.

5. Lake Erie Community Park
Lake Erie Community Park in Girard Township offers multiple hiking trails that all can enjoy. The trail runs along the shores of Lake Erie and provides some stunning views of the lake and its surroundings. In addition, the park boasts quiet, meandering pathways that are perfect for a casual stroll or an invigorating jog.
From the Sunset Trail, which offers a mile of trail weaving throughout the park, to the Kelly’s Run Nature Trail that connects to the Woodland Trail, there truly is something for everyone.
With well-groomed natural trails or trails of wood chips or gravel, visitors can take their time and soak up the beauty of the surroundings. Additionally, there are several beach access points where visitors can dip their toes in the water or build a sandcastle. So whether you’re looking to take photos or simply unwind and relax by the lake, the Lake Erie Community Park hiking trails are a perfect choice.
Keystone Answers Fun Fact: Pennsylvania has over 229 miles of the Appalachian Trail covering a range in elevation from 320 to 2080 feet.
6. Fourmile Creek Trail
Nestled in picturesque Harborcreek Township, The Fourmile Creek Trail at Wintergreen Gorge near Erie is an absolute gem. This beautiful 1.2-mile trail offers hikers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, with winding paths that meander alongside the creek and through the forest.
Along the way, visitors will encounter an array of wildlife, from birds and butterflies to deer and other mammals. With its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, the trail is perfect for nature lovers to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re an avid hiker, jogger, bicyclist, or just looking for a tranquil place to take the dog for a walk, this trail is not to be missed.
7. Elk Creek Trail
Nestled in the heart of Girard Borough, the Elk Creek Trail is known for its picturesque beauty and stunning surroundings. This 1.75-mile trail allows visitors to immerse themselves in nature and explore diverse terrain. From sweeping views of babbling streams and lush forests, the trail takes hikers on a journey through some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the region.
In addition to serving as a prime location for hiking, the trail is also a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers. With an abundance of flora and fauna unique to the area, visitors are sure to encounter a variety of colorful birds, mammals, and reptiles throughout their journey on the trail. So whether you’re a hiker or simply looking to spend a peaceful afternoon in nature, this breathtaking trail promises an unforgettable experience like no other.

8. Highmeyer Park
Highmeyer Park, located in Harborcreek Township, is an exceptional park that boasts some of the best hiking in the area. Visitors can immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty by exploring the miles of winding trails throughout the forest, along the creek, and through the meadows.
Along Perimeter Trail, which is over 2 miles in length, and the approximately 1-mile-long Inner Loop Trail, hikers can expect to see a diverse range of wildlife in their natural habitat, such as deer, songbirds, and other small mammals.
In addition, the park is home to various plant species that flourish in the park’s rich soil. The trails offer scenic viewpoints, from tranquil creeks to rocky terrain with diverse vegetation. The park is a haven for recreational enthusiasts seeking to hike, walk their dog or explore the great outdoors. Overall, the hiking trails at Highmeyer Park offer visitors a chance to escape the stress of everyday life and experience the wonders of the natural world firsthand.
A Hiker’s Dream
In conclusion, Erie and the surrounding area offer diverse hiking trail options for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a leisurely walk or a more challenging trek, there’s something for everyone in this stunning region.
From the winding paths along Fourmile Creek Trail at Wintergreen Gorge to the panoramic vistas along Lake Erie Community Park’s trails, Erie offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the state. With abundant wildlife and plant species to observe, these hikes can be more than just physical activity and an opportunity to connect with nature. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, explore all that Erie has to offer on its numerous hiking trails.