Four Hikes Erie Locals Love, Even in Winter

Presque Isle State Park is great — we all know that. It’s the go-to for anyone who wants to spend a little time in nature, even in winter. But this also means it’s one of the busiest outdoor spots in town. I promise you, even on the worst winter day, you won’t be alone at Presque Isle.

If you’re craving a little solitude and an outdoor experience that is quieter and wilder, I’ve got four trails for you that are spectacular in winter, especially after a fresh snowfall.

All these trails are free, dog-friendly (leashed, please!), and open year-round.

Hiking in winter? In Erie?

Yes! Winter hiking is underrated. No bugs, no hot sun, no crowds, no humidity — just crisp air and peaceful woods.

Do note that Erie trails hold onto snow and ice long after roads are clear, so dress in layers and wear waterproof boots. Ice cleats and poles are smart for anything with hills (looking at you, Wintergreen Gorge). Snowshoes? Bring ’em if the snow’s deep.

Alright, let’s get to the good stuff.

1. Headwaters Park (Millcreek) — The “Wait, There’s a Park Here?” Trail

Headwaters Park is home to the headwaters of Mill Creek and consists of 35 acres of woods adjacent to the Thomas E. Bundy Industrial Park. So, you’re driving into an industrial park thinking your GPS led you wrong, and then there it is–an administration building, plenty of parking, natural play space for kids, and a well maintained trail system you are likely to have all to yourself in the winter.  

• About 2 miles of blazed trails

• Several bridges and a big observation deck

• Mill Creek running right through it

• Dogs lose their minds here (in a good way)

In winter, it’s peaceful and perfect for snowshoeing. Just know: if temps are above freezing, this place turns into a mud festival. Bring towels if you’re bringing a dog. There are no restroom in winter, but there’s a portable toilet in summer/fall.

2. Wintergreen Gorge (Harborcreek) — The Dramatic One

Locals get a little smug about this one, and honestly? Fair. It’s a legit gorge trail with real elevation, roots, rocks, and views that feel more “state park” than “Harborcreek.”

• Out-and-back trail, roughly 1 mile each way

• Runs along Fourmile Creek

• Ends at Devil’s Backbone — a rocky overlook worth the climb

• Moderate-to-strenuous depending on conditions

Winter tip you’ll thank me for: The Cooper Road parking lot/trail entrance is closed in winter. Do not park in front of the gate. It’s an emergency route, and the ticket price is way above normal, if they don’t tow you.

In winter, you can park at Penn State Behrend behind the Otto Behrend Science Building. Follow College Drive to the last parking lot before the woods. You’ll see signs for the trail and a few visitor spots. Park in a visitor spot or you will get a ticket. This campus access point drops you in the middle of the trail — head downhill first, then save the Devil’s Backbone climb for last. No restrooms.

3. Eaton Reservoir / Bulls Dam (North East) — Choose Your Own Adventure

This spot is beloved by locals who call it Bulls Dam, maps call it Eaton Reservoir — either way, you get a choice between two totally different hikes depending on your mood.

Option 1: The Reservoir Loop

• 3 miles

• Flat, easy, scenic

• Gorgeous in winter

• Great for cross-country skiing – they lay a track, too

Option 2: The Wooded Trails

• On the right side of the reservoir

• Blazed, hilly, more adventurous

• A totally different vibe from the loop

The left-side trails exist, but they’re easier to get turned around on if you’re new. Near the spillway, you might walk through shallow water — nothing dramatic, just don’t wear your fancy shoes. There is plenty of parking and a porta john on site (a small miracle).

4. Pleasant Ridge Park (Fairview) — The Crowd-Pleaser

If you need a trail that works for everyone — kids, grandparents, runners, dogs, people who “don’t really hike” — this is the one. This is also the one you are likely to have company as it’s a popular space for those who live on the west side of Erie.

• 1.7-mile loop

• Well-marked, well-maintained

• A mix of woods, gentle hills, and a little single-track

• Great for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing

It’s the perfect middle ground: not a stroll, not a sufferfest. Just a genuinely pleasant place to be outside. Free parking and real restrooms (yes, with running water). Dogs must be on a leash here.

The Bottom Line

Erie’s outdoor scene is way bigger than Presque Isle. These four trails prove it — and most days, you’ll have them practically to yourself. Pack water, wear layers, consider trekking poles, and go explore.

If you catch one of these trails on a quiet winter morning with fresh snow and no one else around? You’ll understand exactly why locals keep these spots close to the vest.