Trail Users

Here are some frequently asked questions from enthusiasts who would like to use the trail.

What is the proposed Erie Cattaraugus Rail Trail?

The former trail line traverses two counties (Erie and Cattaraugus) and connects five communities, starting in the Village of Orchard Park, going through towns of Orchard Park, Aurora, Colden, Concord, the Village of Springville and ending in Ashford.
The trail features historic rail depots, quaint villages, woodlands, marshes, farmlands, popular ski areas and a spectacular high-trestle bridge.
ECRT’s 27-mile trail will be the first safe, off-road bicycling trail in the south towns.
This trail is included in the NYS trail and greenway long range plan.

When will it open and who gets to use it?

ECRT is just beginning the design effort, which could take up to a year to complete. We are estimating the entire trail could take anywhere from 5-10 years to complete.

The Springville Pop Warner Trail is currently in use and is a model for our ECRT trail development vision. The remaining trail will be built in sections as community funding and planning is completed. Announcements will be made as soon as other sections are ready for public use.

ECRT will partner with the communities along the trail to fulfill our mission to develop a multi-use trail. Surface design will be up to each community to determine what is most desirable for their population.

Outdoor enthusiasts, including bikers, hikers, horseback riders, cross-country skiers, bird-watchers, and snowmobilers are envisioned to have access. However, every use may not be allowed on every segment of the trail.

Can I explore the current rail-line?

No, please do not. The current right-of-way is still owned by the Buffalo and Pittsburgh Rail Road, and walking on the trail is considered trespassing.

Where will the proposed trail go?

Visit our Future Trail page to see a map of the proposed trail.

Where can I visit a local trail?

In addition to the Springville Pop Warner trail section of ECRT, you can walk or bicycle on the trail from the Orchard Park Railway Historical Society Depot at 395 S. Lincoln Ave through to Ellicott Road in Aurora.

Other regional trails you can visit include: Chautauqua Rails to Trails, the Allegheny River Valley Trail, the Cattaraugus Pat McGee Trail, the Genesee Valley Greenway, the Tonawanda Rail Trail, Clarence-Akron-Newstead Bike Path, and Lancaster’s Heritage Trail.