Red Jacket River Front Park

Red Jacket Riverfront Natural Habitat Park is a unique urban green space located along the Buffalo River in Buffalo, New York. The park, situated just a couple of blocks south of busy South Park Avenue, offers a secluded natural environment despite its proximity to the city center.

Once part of Buffalo's industrial landscape, the area has been transformed into a natural habitat park. It showcases the city's efforts to reclaim and restore former industrial lands along the Buffalo River. The park is nestled between two active railroad lines, with remnants of its industrial past still visible, including old railroad bridge abutments.

Red Jacket Riverfront Park provides visitors with an opportunity to experience nature in an urban setting. The park features a diverse ecosystem, including wooded areas, marsh habitats, and direct access to the Buffalo River. It has become a popular spot for wildlife observation, particularly bird watching. Visitors can spot various species including shorebirds, wading wetland birds, singing sparrows, and warblers. The park is also noted as one of the best places in Buffalo to observe turtles.

The park offers a network of hiking trails that wind through its natural areas, allowing visitors to explore the restored landscape. These trails are suitable for activities in both summer and winter, with snowshoeing being a popular winter activity.

As part of the Buffalo Blueway project, Red Jacket Riverfront Park includes a kayak and canoe launch, enhancing access to the Buffalo River for water-based recreational activities.