Wellness walk in Niagara Falls will focus on community connection, health

‘Walk With Us’ event on April 24

The Niagara Falls National Heritage Area and Create a Healthier Niagara Falls Collaborative are partnering together once again to host “Walk With Us,” a 5K wellness walk, from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, April 24, beginning at the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center at 825 Depot Ave. West. 

Organizers said, “The walk offers an opportunity for members of the community to participate in a physical activity that also improves mental health while engaging in social connection.”

Those interested in participating in the walk can find more information and register here.

The walk has two routes, the first of which is 1.5 miles and follows the Niagara Gorge Trail toward Whirlpool State Park where there are restrooms. The second route is about 3 miles total, and goes to Devil’s Hole and back to the Heritage Center.

“Walk With Us” was created in 2021. It was designed as a way “to combat the isolation and sedentary lifestyle many people had experienced due to the pandemic.” The event had a turnout of a few hundred participants of all ages and abilities, as it is accessible for everyone in the community.

Brian Archie, co-chair for the Create a Healthier Niagara Falls Collaborative, is again looking forward to the walk, and hopes it will continue each year.

“Walking is an accessible, mindful exercise that can help us work through negative emotions,” Archie said. “Exercise, getting outside, and safely being around others are all important ways that we can help prevent current or future mental health crises.” 

For any service providers who would like to have a table set up at the event, fill out information here. To make a donation to the collaborative, click here.

The Niagara Falls National Heritage Area is one of 55 National Heritage Areas in the U.S. Designated by Congress in 2008, its mission is to preserve, protect and promote the historic, natural and cultural resources of the area stretching from Niagara Falls to Old Fort Niagara in Youngstown. Through partnerships and initiatives, the National Heritage Area supports small grants to community partners; develops significant projects including the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center, Discover Niagara Shuttle and #NFMurals; and is a leading advocate for enhancing appreciation of the significant historic, cultural and natural resources within the National Heritage Area. Learn more at discoverniagara.org.

The Create a Healthier Niagara Falls Collaborative is a 501(c)(3) that gives opportunities to residents of Niagara Falls to become change agents with a focus on social connection, healthy eating and physical activity. The collaborative is engaged in the community, provides tools and support to residents, and partners with local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and faith communities to positively impact the health and wellbeing of Niagara Falls residents. Learn more at healthierniagarafalls.org.