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Letchworth State Park

Letchworth State Park, renowned as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” features spectacular vistas of raging waterfalls and of deep canyons.

Approximately 1½ miles wide and 17 miles long, Letchworth State Park is centered around the Genesee River as it snakes its way down over three major waterfalls and through a deep and remote canyon. It features countless vistas, such as Inspiration Point, more than 30 waterfalls on tributaries, 66 miles of hiking trails, large campgrounds, whitewater rafting and kayaking, hot air ballooning, museums, and historic buildings. There are also trails for horseback riding, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.

The historic Glen Iris Inn offers overnight accommodations and features a restaurant that is open to the public for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Humphrey Nature Center offers interactive exhibits highlighting the unique ecology, geology, and wildlife of the park.

Resources

Upper Falls

Upper Falls is a 70-foot block cascade waterfall along the Genesee River.

Middle Falls

Middle Falls is a 107-foot block cascade waterfall along the Genesee River.

Lower Falls

Lower Falls is a 70-foot block cascade waterfall along the Genesee River.

Deh-ga-ya-soh Falls

Deh-ga-ya-soh Falls is a 150-foot ribbon multi-tier cascade waterfall along Deh-ga-ya-soh Creek.

Letchworth State Park offers 66 miles of trails for those who seek a simple walk in the woods to backpackers, horseback riders, mountain bikers, cross-country skiers, and snowmobilers. Additionally, 24 miles of the Finger Lakes Trail cuts through the eastern fringes of the park, offering quiet, unspoiled views of the Genesee River. Featured trails include:

Gorge Trail

Gorge Trail (No. 1): The moderate, one-way 7 mile Gorge Trail passes by Upper Falls, Middle Falls, and Lower Falls along the Genesee River before hugging the rim of the gorge as it connects to several notable overlooks.

Footbridge Trail

Footbridge Trail (No. 6A): The Footbridge Trail connects the Gorge Trail (No. 1) and the Portage Trail (No. 6), passing over a scenic stone-faced arch bridge over the Genesee River. It provides unparalleled views of Lower Falls and the associated canyon.

Official Website

(585) 493-3600

  • From Interstate 390 at Mt. Morris: Follow NY Route 408 west for 2 miles. Turn right onto NY Route 36 north and follow for 1.2 miles. Turn left into the park entrance.
  • From Interstate 86 at Hornell: Follow NY Route 36 north for 6.8 miles. Turn left onto NY Route 70 north and follow for 18 miles. Turn left onto NY Route 436 west and follow for 3.3 miles to Portageville. Turn right onto NY Route 19A north and follow .3 miles to the park entrance.
  • From Interstate 90/New York Thruway at Dunkirk, follow NY Route 60 south for ½ mile. Turn left onto US 20 east and follow for 2 miles. Turn right onto NY Route 39 east and continue for 65½ miles. At the junction with NY Route 19, continue onward to Griffith Road and follow east for 4.8 miles to the park entrance.

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American Byways is an exploration-focused website that helps you discover hidden gems, find unique waypoints, and trek to spectacular natural wonders.

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