Secret Places of Western New York

Discover secret and scenic day hikes within a day’s driving distance of Buffalo and Niagara Falls. SECRET PLACES: 25 Scenic Hikes in Western New York is more than a trail guide. Hidden in these pages, you’ll uncover what makes these hikes special enough to be a Secret Place. Lifetime locals and visitors to the region will be guided to the best paths and trails along the scenic trails of the Niagara, Buffalo, Rochester, and Southern Tier regions. Hike to grottos where the only sound is the trickle of water, crawl through hidden caves, commune with nature in ancient forests, stumble upon tucked away treasures like lonely graves, splash on secluded beaches and creeks, admire towering waterfalls and if you dare, step under the cascade yourself! Find historical carvings on rocks and trees that many walk past, but never see, and be awestruck when ice volcanoes erupt on the shores of Lake Erie! 


These outdoor adventures appeal to a range of abilities, with most hikes accessible for the whole family. Co-authors Jennifer Hillman and Bill McKeever have teamed up to encourage the next generation of explorers to discover compelling secret and not-so-secret scenic day hikes within driving distance of Buffalo and Niagara Falls.  Discover 25 little-known scenic treasures of Western New York that provide a day’s outing for families and friends to explore. 


Go take a hike!