Artpark State Park Connector Trails Projects

Visitors to the park should be aware of ongoing site improvements as a part of the Artpark State Park Connector Trails project managed by New York State Parks.

As a result of these projects, the Box Office is closed for in-person, walk up sales until further notice. Lot D and the South 4th St. entrance are now closed until mid-May 2024. 

Elements of the Artpark project include:

• Creating a sloped switchback trail that connects the Shoreline Trail to the upper Artpark parking area. This includes a direct scramble that will create an adventurous climb to the overlook on the escarpment;
• Transforming the existing South Fourth Street parking area into a sustainable parking area & multipurpose space;
• Installing additional power access on the above trails and lower Parking Lot D to allow for more public and arts engagement.
   

The Lower Park is still accessible to pedestrians who park in the upper lots, accessed off our Portage Rd. entrance, and walk down into the rest of the park.

Construction is continuing near Lot A in the Upper Park as part of a plan to expand the Lower Niagara River Trail network to help create safer, off-road connections north toward Old Fort Niagara State Historic Site, south toward Niagara Falls, and westward to the Village of Lewiston. Work in Lot A to complete the switchback is expected to be completed by December 2025.

This project is funded by Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation, New York Power Authority, New York State Parks and Empire State Development.