Letchworth State Park | Buffalo

Letchworth State Park, often called the “Grand Canyon of the East,” is a vast and breathtaking natural area spanning about 14,500 acres in the Genesee Valley near Castile, New York. It is famous for its dramatic gorge carved by the Genesee River, which drops nearly 600 feet through a series of cliffs and waterfalls, creating one of the most spectacular landscapes in the northeastern United States.

Geography and Natural Features

The centerpiece of Letchworth State Park is the deep Genesee River gorge, which stretches about 17 miles through the park. The river plunges over three major waterfalls in succession, each with its own unique character:

Upper Falls: The first major waterfall in the series, about 70 feet high. The Upper Falls is notable for the impressive railway bridge that towers 200 feet above it, creating an iconic photo opportunity.

Middle Falls: The tallest of the three main waterfalls, plunging 107 feet into the gorge below. It’s framed by towering cliffs and lush forests, often photographed with the Glen Iris Inn perched above it.

Lower Falls: The smallest of the three main falls, about 55 feet tall, located near a historic stone bridge that spans the gorge. The bridge and falls together create a picture-perfect scene.

In addition to these, the park is home to over 50 smaller waterfalls scattered along tributary streams feeding into the Genesee River, many of which are especially beautiful in spring when water flow is highest.

The geology of the park reveals layers of shale, sandstone, and limestone, shaped by glacial meltwaters over thousands of years. The gorge’s cliffs rise up to 600 feet in places, providing sweeping views and diverse habitats for wildlife.

Recreational Opportunities

Hiking Trails:
Letchworth offers more than 66 miles of well-maintained hiking trails of varying difficulty:

The Gorge Trail runs about 7 miles along the rim of the gorge, providing access to all three major waterfalls and breathtaking overlooks.

The Finger Lakes Trail extends for 24 miles through the park, offering a longer, more secluded experience on the east side of the river.

Additional trails allow for horseback riding, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing during winter months.

Camping and Lodging:
Visitors can choose from several types of accommodations:

Glen Iris Inn: A historic lodge located near Middle Falls, offering overnight rooms and fine dining with views of the waterfall.

Cabins: The park maintains 82 rustic cabins scattered throughout the property, equipped with basic amenities. Some are pet-friendly, but linens must be brought by guests.

Campgrounds: There are approximately 270 campsites, suitable for tents and RVs, with access to picnic tables, grills, and bathhouses.

Water-Based Activities:
The Genesee River is popular for:

Whitewater Rafting and Kayaking: Guided trips are available in the spring through early fall, navigating the rapids and calmer sections of the river.

Fishing: The river and tributaries support trout, bass, and other freshwater fish.

Unique Experiences:

Hot Air Ballooning: From spring to fall, visitors can take hot air balloon rides over the gorge to see the waterfalls and forests from the air.

Autism Nature Trail: A specially designed accessible trail with sensory stations and quiet areas, aimed at visitors with autism and other sensory needs.

Facilities and Visitor Services

Visitor Center: Offers educational exhibits, maps, and information about the park’s natural and cultural history.

Picnic Areas: Numerous designated spots with tables, grills, and shelters suitable for family outings and group gatherings.

Playgrounds and Pools: There are children’s play areas and seasonal swimming pools within the park.

Accessibility: Many overlooks and facilities are wheelchair accessible, including some trails.

Seasonal Highlights

Spring: Waterfalls are at peak flow from snowmelt; wildflowers bloom along trails.

Summer: Warm weather supports hiking, camping, rafting, and swimming.

Fall: Famous for spectacular autumn foliage, turning the park into a mosaic of reds, oranges, and yellows.

Winter: The park offers snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snow tubing on designated trails and areas.

History and Conservation

Letchworth State Park is named after William Pryor Letchworth, a 19th-century businessman and philanthropist who purchased much of the land to protect it from industrial exploitation. He donated the property to New York State in 1907 with the vision of preserving its natural beauty for public enjoyment.

The park is managed by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and balances recreation with the preservation of the region’s unique ecosystems, including mature hardwood forests, diverse wildlife, and pristine waterways.

Visitor Information

Location: 1 Letchworth State Park, Castile, NY 14427

Phone: (585) 493-3600

Hours: Open year-round, with visitor services and facilities operating primarily from spring through fall

Entrance Fee: A vehicle use fee applies, varying by season and residency

Letchworth State Park offers a rich blend of stunning natural scenery, outdoor adventure, and peaceful retreat, making it a premier destination for nature lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts in the Northeastern United States.