In the heart of Chautauqua County, a new chapter is unfolding for outdoor enthusiasts. The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG) has secured a $35,000 grant to breathe fresh life into the Overland Trails, specifically targeting the Earl Cardot Eastside Overland Trail in Boutwell Hill State Forest. This funding, awarded by the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds through the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, marks a significant step in Phase V of the Overland Trails Revitalization Project, promising upgrades that will make the trails more inviting and durable for years to come. Announced on June 4, 2025, this initiative is set to enhance the experience for hikers, bikers, and cross-country skiers who flock to the region’s scenic landscapes.
The Overland Trails, stretching 43 miles across Chautauqua County, are a cherished network, split between the Earl Cardot Eastside Overland Trail and the Fred J. Cusimano Westside Overland Trail. These trails wind through lush forests, offering a rugged escape for those looking to reconnect with nature. The latest grant will focus on improving trail sustainability, addressing drainage issues, and ensuring year-round accessibility. Whether it’s a summer hike through dense greenery, a fall bike ride with leaves crunching under tires, or a winter ski across snow-dusted paths, these upgrades aim to make every adventure smoother and safer.
CCPEG, the driving force behind this project, isn’t working alone. They’ve partnered with the County Parks Department and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to ensure the revitalization meets high standards. The collaboration emphasizes practical improvements, like rerouting sections of the trail to avoid erosion and building up low areas for better drainage. These changes aren’t just cosmetic—they’re designed to preserve the trail’s natural beauty while making it more resilient to heavy use and unpredictable weather. Trail Construction Associates, a local firm known for its expertise in eco-friendly trail design, will handle the construction, pending additional funding. If all goes as planned, shovels could hit the ground by late summer or early fall 2025.
This isn’t the first time the Overland Trails have seen upgrades. Phase IV, completed in October 2024, transformed sections of the Fred J. Cusimano Westside Overland Trail in Panama and Brokenstraw State Forests. That project tackled similar issues, rerouting paths and improving drainage to enhance user experience. Earlier efforts, like a $25,000 grant in May 2024, also supported the Westside Overland Trail, showing a steady commitment to revitalizing this trail system. The new $35,000 grant builds on these successes, turning the Eastside Overland Trail into a priority for 2025.
The Chautauqua County Greenway Plan underscores the importance of these trails, highlighting trail loop development at the north and south ends of the Eastside Overland Trail as a key goal. These loops will create more dynamic routes, giving adventurers options to explore without backtracking. The plan also aligns with broader efforts to maintain and expand the county’s outdoor offerings, like the Marden E. Cobb Waterway, ensuring Chautauqua remains a haven for those who love the outdoors.
The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds, the source of this grant, honor the late philanthropist’s passion for community assets and accessibility. Wilson, a Buffalo native and founder of the Buffalo Bills, believed in creating spaces where people could come together and stay active. His legacy is evident in projects like this, which not only preserve natural spaces but also make them welcoming for everyone—whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a weekend warrior dusting off the bike. The $35,000 grant is part of a broader set of awards announced by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, with other 2025 recipients including the City of Buffalo for similar community-focused projects.
For locals and visitors alike, the Overland Trails are more than just paths through the woods. They’re a chance to unplug, challenge yourself, and soak in the quiet beauty of Chautauqua County. The planned upgrades will make these trails even more appealing, ensuring they can handle the wear and tear of boots, tires, and skis while staying true to the natural landscape. CCPEG’s ongoing efforts to secure additional funding show their dedication to getting this project right, with hopes of breaking ground before the leaves start falling in 2025.
As the county continues to invest in its trails, the Overland system stands out as a gem for those who value adventure and the outdoors. Whether you’re chasing a heart-pounding bike ride, a peaceful winter ski, or a long hike to clear your mind, the revitalized Earl Cardot Eastside Overland Trail will soon offer an even better way to experience Chautauqua’s wild side. Keep an eye out for updates as construction nears, and get ready to hit the trails with a renewed sense of exploration.
