Letchworth State Park: Revel In The Beauty Of A Three-Tiered Waterfall In The 'Grand Canyon Of The East'
By Sarah McCosham|Published March 15, 2021
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
In Upstate New York, there’s a particularly epic, 176-foot waterfall that attracts upwards of 8 million visitors each year and definitely demands the spotlight. Of course, we’re talking about Niagara Falls, which truly is one of the world’s most splendid natural wonders. However, there’s another destination that’s less than two hours from the world-famous falls that’s equally wondrous and meritorious in its own right: Letchworth State Park.
This New York State Park has some of the most sublime scenery in the country. Here, the Genesee River roars through the majestic gorge, over picture-perfect tiered waterfalls, between stately cliffs, and along the lush Upstate wilderness. Lauded as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park is absolutely magnificent – a stunning wonder that must be experienced.
Located in the majestic Genesee River Gorge, Letchworth State Park is one of Upstate New York's most glorious wonders.
This state park stretches for 14,350 resplendent acres and contains some of the most stunning gorges and waterfalls in the entire country.
There are roughly 66 miles of hiking, biking, snowshoe, cross-country skiing, and horse trails in Letchworth State Park, making this a must-visit destination for any outdoor enthusiast.
The largest of the three falls, Middle Falls is a staggering 107 feet in height, and the only waterfall visitors can actually stand right alongside its edge.
Though the Lower Falls are the smallest of the three, they are lovely in their own right.
This one is also a little more challenging to reach, as you have to descend (and later ascend on your return) 127 steps to reach a stone bridge with a view looking upstream at the cascade.
Being close to something so commanding is truly wondrous and life-affirming.
This historic hotel is the former country estate of William Pryor Letchworth, and it opened its doors to guests in 1914. While only open seasonally, the inn is a popular wedding venue in New York and also has a restaurant that focuses on fresh, local cuisine. Glen Iris Inn has a charming, old-world feel, and the waterfall views are extraordinary.
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Of all the trails at this state park, the eponymous Letchworth State Park Gorge Trail is truly a tour de force of this amazing natural area.
At 14 miles long, the Gorge Trail is definitely on the more advanced end of the hiking spectrum, but it winds through some of the park's most unique geological features; most notably, its iconic, 600-foot-tall gorges. It's these weathered walls that have earned Letchworth the moniker "Grand Canyon of the East," and this trail put hikers right in the middle of it all.
The Letchworth State Park Gorge Trail also journeys past two waterfalls, making the experience all the more magical.
It runs parallel to the Gorge, and the terrain is relatively flat and easy to navigate. In addition to offering incredible views of the lower and middle falls, there are several secluded, scenic points along the Genesee Fall Gorge Trail that make it an underrated treasure at Letchworth.
Of course, with the Genesee River at the center of the park, the water recreation opportunities here are unparalleled.
For some of the very best whitewater rafting in the country, visit Letchworth State Park. Adventure Calls Outfitters has excursions for families, beginners, and advanced rafters, making this experience incredibly accessible, no matter your familiarity with this fun activity. A rafting trip down the mighty Genesee, through the Grand Canyon of the East is an experience you'll remember forever.
But perhaps the most perfect way to experience the splendor of Letchworth State Park is from above.
Hot air balloon rides offer beautiful views any time of year, but in the autumn months, Upstate New York becomes especially swoon-worthy. A hot air balloon ride provides a panoramic perspective of the park that would otherwise be out of reach.
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Believe it or not, the incredible views don't die down with the sunset; the stargazing at Letchworth is out-of-this-world.
The park's Upstate location puts it well beyond city light pollution, offering clear views of the Milky Way. And because the park is open daily until 11 p.m., stargazers can stay and soak up the stellar sky views all year round.
The Grand Canyon of the East is a sublime space for cultivating a sense of wonder and curiosity.
The radiant falls, roaring waters, and towering gorges will have you marveling at the infinite majesty of Mother Nature and feeling like you're exactly where you're meant to be.
“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart.” Helen Keller said that, and it’s true. Beauty is something that cannot simply be seen; it must be experienced. And at Letchworth State Park, you’ll experience natural beauty at its best.
General Information:
Accessibility: Given the varied terrain and geography of Letchworth State Park, most of its trails are not handicap-accessible; however, the public viewing and picnic areas are. Read more about accessibility at New York State Parks here.
Pet Friendly: Dogs are allowed throughout Letchworth State Park and on the trails, provided they remain on a leash and owners assume responsibility for cleaning up after them.
Parking: Letchworth State Park has six main entrances; four on the west side of the park, including the Glen Iris Inn, Humphrey Nature Center, Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls, Stone Museum, and the Visitor’s Center/Main Office. Parking is free, and there are a variety of places to park at Letchworth State Park. The Visitor Center is a great place to start; it’s located near the south end of the park near Inspiration Point. The visitor center houses the main offices for the park, a staffed desk, informational kiosks, gift shop, bathrooms, and has a charging station for electric cars.
Seasonal Access: Letchworth State Park is open daily from dawn to dusk, with camping and outdoor recreation following a seasonal schedule. You can learn more on the park’s website.
Cost: Letchworth State Park, as with most New York State Parks, charges a vehicle use fee to enter. The entry fee at Letchworth State Park is $10 per vehicle, collected daily from May 25 through October 28. Fees can vary by season, and more information can be found on the Letchworth State Park website.
