The One Place In New York That Looks Like Something From Middle Earth
By Lea Monroe|Published October 25, 2016
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Lea Monroe
Author
Writer for Only In Your State. Scribbling about all things New York and Buffalo related while also keeping you updated on the latest travel news! Inquiries: Lmonroe@onlyinyourstate.com
There’s not many people in this day and age that aren’t familiar with the J. R. R. Tolkien’s famous trilogy, Lord of the Rings. Most of Tolkien’s well-known story line takes place in the magical setting of Middle Earth, a fictional fantasy world that’s covered in vibrant green landscapes and mythical wonders. If the idea of not being able to visit such whimsical place like this has always broken your heart, then no need to get upset! This one scenic park in New York is everything you need to get away from it all.
A gem of Chautauqua County, in the small village of Panama you can find one of New York's most beautiful scenic parks.
From deep crevices to cavernous dens, there's so much to see and explore in this extraordinary scenic park. The rock formations in the park date back to 300 million years ago, reaching upwards of 60-feet tall!
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A one-mile long hiking trail surrounds the towering rock formations, an easy hike for visitors of all ages.
Not only does the scenic park feature a one-mile long trail that leads you to fascinating places, off-trail exploring is also allowed here! You'll be able to make your way through passageways and explore crevices that look like places from out of this world. The trail is great for visitors of all ages but does feature moderate inclines and pathways that will take you over the many roots you'll find exposed throughout the park.
Open daily, the park features a variation of trees that create a magical scene during the fall.
From Black Cherry and Elm to Red Maple and Sugar Maple trees, the park is amazing to see during our fall foliage. Panama Rocks is open daily from 10AM to 5PM, closing for the season on October 31st! if you've never been here or have yet to take your annual visit, this upcoming week is your last chance to experience New York's very own Middle Earth until next year.
Pricing: General Admission: $7.50, Children Ages 6-12: $5.00, Children under 5: FREE
Wondering if you're eligible for a discount? All Seniors (65+), Veterans, Military and College Students (25 and under, with a valid ID) can get into Panama Rocks for just $6.00.
Covered in vibrant ferns and mosses, like always when exploring any one of our parks, you'll want to be respectful of the delicate features surrounding you.
One of the main reasons that this park is so eye-catching and unique is that the mosses and ferns create a lush scenery amongst such rough formations. To enjoy the perfect day at this park all you'll need to do is respect Mother Nature (AKA use your common sense) and wear your best pair of sneakers or hiking boots! It's as simple as that.
How to get here: 11 Rock Hill Road Panama, NY 14767
Can’t get enough of this place? Then watch this extraordinary footage of Panama Rocks Scenic Park, captured by David Niedbala on Youtube!
