The Erie County Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry has announced the completion of improvements to the Eternal Flame Trail at Chestnut Ridge Park. Working in partnership with the Chestnut Ridge Conservancy, significant safety and access improvements to the popular trail were completed over the past four weeks at the site and will be appreciated by trail users venturing to the Eternal Flame. Today, Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz was joined by Deputy Parks Commissioners James McDonald and Kate Hilliman along with departmental personnel, Treasurer of the Chestnut Ridge Conservancy Michael Corbin, and members of the public to review the improvements and take a tour of the Trail.

“The Eternal Flame Trail draws visitors from around the country and the world, so this project was important to address safety and accessibility for the thousands of hikers who come here to see this natural wonder,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “I thank our Parks’ Department and our partners for their alacrity in getting this project done and having the trail ready for more vistors so quickly.”

“It is through partnerships, like we have with the Chestnut Ridge Conservancy that it is possible to address some of the special projects we otherwise may not be able to in the Erie County Park System,” said Deputy Commissioner of Parks Jimbo McDonald. “The safety enhancements made to the Eternal Flame Trail through this project will not only make it possible for some who otherwise could not traverse the previous terrain of the trail to see this natural wonder, but also cut down on the need for rescue and recovery efforts from Emergency Services personnel.”

139 steps were installed on the Trail to the Flame along with 119 feet of railings and 200 feet of new Trail. A new drainage ditch installed above the Trail’s upper steps also enhances safety and walkability along the Trail. This $134,000 investment, funded in partnership by Erie County and the Chestnut Ridge Conservancy, was completed by Tawahus Trails, a full-service recreations trail design, construction, and consulting company based in the Hudson Valley of NYS.

“The Chestnut Ridge Conservancy took on this project to enhance the park experience, coordinating the contractor selection process and overseeing this phase of construction and we are very pleased with the result, making the rugged Eternal Flame trail safer and more accessible,” said Gordon Panek, Chestnut Ridge Conservancy President.  “We’d like to thank John Mills office and the county for their significant financial contributions to seed the funding, along the conservancy members and benefactors who worked tirelessly to raise the remaining needed funds, but there is more work to do, and would invite people to join the Conservancy membership to help make it happen.”

Background on Chestnut Ridge Park:

Chestnut Ridge was named by early settlers of the region for the wealth of Great Chestnut trees on the hills. The park is approximately 1151 acres. The Casino, established in 1925, provided a meeting area for public and private uses. Included in the Casino designs were a fireplace, concession counter and observation platform on the upper level which offered an impressive view of Buffalo to the Canadian shore. A timber and stone structure replaced the original Casino in 1938; this Casino structure remains in commission today.

In summer, Chestnut Ridge offers scenic driving, forest hiking, biking, and trail explorations. There are places for family and group picnicking, as well as great children's play areas. The park also features 12 tennis courts, which offer court lighting from April 15th - September 30th each year, and other various informal ball diamonds.

In winter, Chestnut Ridge offers tobogganing, sledding, downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing (ungroomed), hiking, and snowmobiling on designated trails.

For more information:

On the Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry visit https://www3.erie.gov/parks/

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