Beaver Island Park to Nike Base trails, NY

Overview
This walk starts on the South end of Grand Island, New York, near Beaver Island State Park and follows the West River paved trail which used to be West River road a few years ago. It was decided to convert this road/highway into a walking path and bike path in 2018. This path continues all of the way to the North end of the island, on its West side, and connects with other trails on Grand Island.


Geography
The Niagara river flows North from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario and also serves as the border between the United States and Canada. Grand Island is situated on the river and on the US side. About 3 miles downstream from Grand Island is Niagara Falls. The currents can get pretty strong on the North end of the island.Walk
If you parked in the small lot near West Oakfield Road, you will walk North until you reach a paved path that can be used for walking and biking. Turn left and follow this path along the river.

Going North, the walking path is on the left side, and the 2-way bike path is on the right side. There are some docks along the river which are all on private property to my knowledge. Across the river is Canada.

Follow this path North for approximately 5 miles. Cross West River road and look for an entrance into the woods which marks the start of the Nike Base trails which also connect to the Margery Gallogly Nature Sanctuary. For a shorter walk, turn around at any point and walk back to where you parked.

If you parked at the West River Overlook, you can walk the path North about 1,000 feet until you see a paved path leading East toward West river road. Cross West River road and look for an entrance into the woods which marks the start of the trails mentioned above.

2022-09-18 Mike_W