Jules HoeptingAre you a fan of puttering around in creeks and being stunned by stunning cliffs? Well, Zoar Valley, located near Gowanda, is just the place for you!
Carved out by Cattaraugus Creek, Zoar Valley winds and turns, sculpting curves and cutting through steep rock. There are several entrances and trails to explore, as can be seen in the link below, but a lot of folks prefer to walk around in the water.
Link: https://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/regions_pdf/zoarmap.pdf
There is something magical about seeing the world from a creek’s view. I am absolutely amazed at how shale rock is able to cut in such jagged, layered pieces and simultaneously cut in nearly perfect lines. How the water erodes the basin rocks to a smooth, curved surface.
There is something about looking up and seeing cliffs stretching above you. Thinking about how the water used to be up there. Realizing one of the few constants on Earth is change. Change is, as much of an oxymoron it seems, dependable.
If you’re not a fan of puttering around in water and prefer walking a forest trail with a lookout, you can always check out Deer Lick Nature Preserve. The preserve offers several trails, the longest one leading up to a view above Zoar Valley.
Happy trails! =)
