Estimated Read Time: Eight Minutes

A good hike works up an appetite and in Erie, you never have to go far to find a local brewery ready to help you refuel. From lakeside trails and scenic overlooks, pair these Erie County walks and hikes with a local pint for the perfect outdoor adventure.

Erie Ale Works + Presque Isle State Park’s Gull Point Trail

One of Erie’s most unique natural landscapes is the Gull Point Trail at Presque Isle State Park. The 1.5-mile trail winds through sandy terrain at the eastern most end of the peninsula, where hikers can spot everything from ospreys and herons to bald eagles and migrating shorebirds. After your hike, head to Erie Ale Works for a local favorite like Tattooed Lady Blonde Ale, a crisp, easy-drinking beer that’s the perfect way to toast a day on the trail.

Twisted Elk Brewery + Erie Bluffs State Park’s Bluffs Edge Trail

Take in some of the best views of Lake Erie along the Bluffs Edge Trail at Erie Bluffs State Park. The trail follows the edge of the park’s 90-foot bluff, with overlooks offering sweeping views of Lake Erie. The park is also home to a rare black oak savanna habitat, adding to its ecological significance. After soaking in the views, make your way to Twisted Elk Brewery in nearby Lake City and order the Irish Red Ale, one of the brewery’s best sellers.

Nostrovia Brewing Co. + Wintergeen Gorge’s Four Mile Creek Trail

For a hike with a little more adventure, head to Wintergreen Gorge, where the trail follows Fourmile Creek through a dramatic wooded gorge that was carved by glacial forces more than 11,000 years ago. The trail winds through forest and along the creek before climbing toward the overlook known as Devil’s Backbone. After exploring the Gorge, continue your east-county adventure at Nostrovia Brewing Co. in Harborcreek. Check out the brewery’s seasonal brew, Octoberfest which is a traditional Märzen-style lager with flavors of toasty malt, fruit, and subtle tobacco notes.

Black Monk Brewery + Asbury Woods’ Greenway Trail

Trade the lake views for a peaceful walk through the woods at Asbury Woods, a 234-acre preserve featuring forests, wetlands, fields, streams and more than five miles of trails. One of the highlights is the steel bridge crossing Walnut Creek, offering a scenic viewing spot along the way. After exploring the trails, head to Black Monk Brewery for a Blind Squirrel Nut Brown Ale, a fittingly named brew to enjoy after a day spent wandering through the woods.

John Russell Brewing Company + Headwaters Park’s Hillside Trail

Discover a quieter side of Erie County at Headwaters Park, where nearly three miles of trails wind through forests, meadows and wetlands. The park gets its name from the headwaters of Mill Creek, and remnants of old logging roads and skid trails offer a glimpse into the property’s past. After enjoying the fresh air, head to John Russell Brewing Company on Upper Peach Street. Pair your post-hike meal with Me & Julio, the brewery’s best-selling Mexican lager. At just 4.2% ABV, its crisp, refreshing profile makes it an easy choice after a day outdoors.

The Brewerie at Union Station + Bayfront Promenade

For an urban hike with waterfront views, follow the Bayfront Promenade near Bayview Park and the iconic “Erie” sign. This easygoing walk offers views of Presque Isle Bay, downtown Erie and the lake, making it an especially scenic spot around sunset. When you’re ready to trade waterfront views for a locally brewed treat, head downtown to The Brewerie at Union Station and order an Apple Fritter Ale, a collaboration with Erie’s own Mighty Fine Donuts that brings the flavors of the apple and cinnamon to your pint.