It’s no wonder that Letchworth State Park is the most visited state park in New York. With more than 50 miles of trails, three cascading waterfalls, and some of the best camping facilities in the Northeast, it doesn’t take long to see why this is such a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Welcome to Letchworth State Park
Welcome to Letchworth State Park nestled in the heart of western New York, spanning over 14,000 acres across Livingston and Wyoming counties. With its deep gorges carved by the Genesee River, lush forests, and majestic waterfalls – including the Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls – Letchworth offers a panoramic vista unlike any other seen in New York. No wonder it is considered New York’s best state Park (well in my opinion anyway and I’ve been to many of NY parks).
The park’s commitment to conservation and historical preservation has also garnered national recognition, including the esteemed USA Today Readers’ Choice Award for the best state park in the nation. The many activities along with its beauty have solidified its status as a treasure within the national parks system and a pillar among New York State Parks.
Key Takeaways:
- Letchworth State Park is celebrated as the Grand Canyon of the East, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
- The park’s geological wonders, such as the Genesee River Gorge and the major waterfalls, provide breathtaking scenery and numerous recreational opportunities.
- Letchworth could very well be a national park with its lush forests, historic sites, campground, and lodging, and should be on your bucket list when visiting New York.

Planning Your Visit: Entry Essentials
Embarking on an adventure to Letchworth State Park begins with understanding the essentials for entry. With multiple main entrances, accessibility is convenient, whether you’re arriving from the Castile, Portageville, or Mount Morris directions. Nearby towns also offer additional lodging, campgrounds, and restaurants.
Tip: Near the town of Perry, Silver Lake offers fishing and boating including canoeing, paddle boarding, and kayaking (as there is no boating in Letchworth)
Regarding costs, a modest entrance fee applies, ensuring the preservation of this mesmerizing natural asset. For those visiting in their vehicles, a vehicle use fee is also in effect, supporting the upkeep of the state park’s facilities and trails. Residents of New York State might be eligible for reduced fees on certain days of the week.
To fully embrace the serenity of Letchworth State Park, consider visiting outside of peak times. Early mornings or weekdays offer a tranquil experience, away from the bustling crowds of weekends and holidays. Embrace the calm to appreciate the awe-inspiring views of the major waterfalls and the Genesee River Gorge without the cacophony of heavy foot traffic, making your visit unforgettable.
Exploring the Majestic Waterfalls
Among the most scenically magnificent areas in the United States, Letchworth State Park hosts an ensemble of breathtaking cascades: the Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls. Each of these main waterfalls carves a dynamic narrative of natural power and beauty through the deep gorge, known affectionately as the “Grand Canyon of the East.”
The Upper Falls, with its captivating allure, sets the stage for an exploration filled with awe.

Not to be outshined, the Middle Falls offers a spectacle of roaring waters and misty rainbows, particularly enchanting under the moonlight.

Meanwhile, the Lower Falls encapsulates the tranquil yet persistent force of nature, inviting onlookers into a serene embrace.

Top Hiking Trails to Explore
Letchworth State Park is a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts. Among the attractions the park offers, the hiking trails stand out, weaving through lush forests, along rushing riverbanks, and past the park’s renowned waterfalls – the Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls.
Tip: For those who can’t hike the upper and middle falls can be viewed from the parking lots. However, you do have to hike to the lower falls. Also, the Middle Falls is lit up at night so try to revisit it with the lighting shining, wow what a sight to see and very peaceful!

The Gorge Trail is particularly noteworthy, providing an immersive experience into the park’s natural grandeur. This trail, accessible to hikers of varying abilities, reveals breathtaking views of the deep gorge and the protective canopy of the forests above.

For those seeking a challenge, trails that ascend to vantage points like Inspiration Point offer panoramic views that encapsulate the essence of Letchworth’s beauty.
Regardless of the path chosen, each step taken on Letchworth’s trails promises an unforgettable journey through one of New York State Parks’ most scenically magnificent areas.
Adventures in White Water
For the more adventurous among you, Letchworth State Park offers whitewater rafting, a thrilling escapade for the daring and the bold. Facilitated by Adventure Calls Outfitters, this exhilarating experience invites you to navigate the turbulent waters of the Genesee River Gorge. The best times of year to indulge in this heart-pounding activity are spring and early summer, largely thanks to the higher water levels that ensure a more spirited ride down the river.
Historical Sites Within the Park
Stepping into Letchworth State Park not only opens vistas of sprawling landscapes but also ushers visitors into corridors of history, preserved and presented with care. Among these, the William Pryor Letchworth Museum stands as a beacon of the past, showcasing artifacts that span Native American history, the pioneering days of the Genesee Valley, and the legacy of William Pryor Letchworth himself. It’s a profound reminder of the area’s rich heritage, conveniently located near the majestic Middle Falls, offering context and depth to the natural beauty.
Equally captivating is the Glen Iris Inn, originally the residence of William Pryor Letchworth before he graciously donated his estate to become the park we cherish today. Now serving as an inviting lodge, the inn overlooks the mesmerizing Middle Falls, providing guests with both comfort and splendid views. Its preservation is a testament to Letchworth’s dedication to conservation and his love for this land, underscored by his efforts in historical preservation that continue to impact and inspire.
Picnic Areas and even a Pool
Letchworth offers everything to make your family vacation one to remember. Just wanted to mention that near the Mount Morris entrance, there is a full pool area for your use from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Letchworth offers many picnic areas throughout the park and most of them have playground areas for the kids to enjoy. The areas were clean with picnic tables and grills.
Mount Morris Dam Tours

Mount Morris Dam is a significant structure built on the Genesee River and serves primarily for flood control, protecting areas downstream including Rochester from potential flooding.

Constructed between 1948 and 1952 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the dam is impressive for its size and engineering. It stands about 230 feet high and stretches 1,028 feet across. Mount Morris Dam also offers educational and recreational opportunities.
The visitor center provides exhibits and tours, educating the public about the dam’s history, operations, and role in flood prevention. We took a tour of the dam and found it fascinating, it is worth the time while in the area.
Outdoor Activities Across the Seasons
Letchworth State Park offers a treasure of outdoor activities that cater to every season, ensuring there’s never a dull moment regardless of the time of year you decide to visit.

Letchworth State Park, often hailed as one of the best state parks in the United States, transforms with the seasons, each bringing its unique charm and set of activities.
- In spring, the park becomes a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts, with the lush forests coming alive with the symphony of bird calls. It’s an ideal time to observe a variety of species in their natural habitat.
- Summer ushers in arts programs, transforming the park into a creative landscape for both visitors and locals. The blend of natural beauty with artistic expression makes for a unique experience.
- When winter sweeps across the park, it doesn’t signal the end of the adventure. Cross-country skiing through the serene, snow-covered trails offers a peaceful yet refreshing way to explore the grandeur of Letchworth State Park.
Engaging Nature and Learning
At the heart of Letchworth State Park’s engaging nature and educational opportunities is the Humphrey Nature Center. This modern facility offers interactive exhibits that dive deep into the park’s geology, flora, and fauna, making learning fun and accessible for visitors of all ages. During warmer months, the center hosts a summer lecture series, featuring experts in various fields who share insights about the natural world, conservation efforts, and the history of this magnificent park.

One of the center’s standout features is the autism nature trail, designed with inclusivity in mind. This trail offers a sensory-rich experience that is welcoming for individuals with autism and other sensory processing challenges, ensuring everyone can connect with nature’s wonders. Letchworth State Park truly embraces the spirit of outdoor adventure and discovery while fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world.
Tip: Not far from this area is Trout Pond where you can take the kids. It’s a short walk to a catch-and-release fishing pond that your kids will love.
Unique Experiences: Hot Air Balloon Rides
Imagine gently lifting off the ground and ascending into the sky as the landscapes of Letchworth State Park unfold beneath you. This is the exhilarating experience of a hot air balloon ride, offering an unparalleled perspective of the park’s lush forests, deep gorges, and the flowing Genesee River. The vibrant hues of sunset or the tranquility of dawn make these rides an absolute must-do, painting memories in the sky.
To embark on this sky-high adventure, you’ll need to book your flight with a reputable company. Adventure Calls Outfitters, known for their expert pilots and stellar safety record, provides these breathtaking journeys. The best times for flying are during the late spring through early fall when the weather is most favorable.
Camping and Overnight Stays
As day turns into night, Letchworth State Park transforms into a haven for those seeking solace under the night sky. Among its sprawling acres visitors find a variety of overnight accommodations that cater to every type of adventurer.

Campsites nestled among lush forests offer a rustic escape, where one can listen to the gentle whispers of nature and gaze upon the unobstructed celestial display. Note: We were there in early September and although we loved this campground we found it very buggy so make sure you bring bug spray and a canopy for your enjoyment.
For those desiring a touch more comfort, the cabins within the park serve as cozy retreats, equipped with amenities that promise a comfortable stay amidst the wilderness.
To secure your spot under the stars, reservations can be made at reserveamerica.com. Both the campground and cabins won’t disappoint making Letchworth State Park not just a stop, but a destination.
Spotlight on Inspiration Point
Among the most scenically magnificent areas within the boundless beauty of Letchworth State Park, Inspiration Point stands out as a mesmerizing sight that captures the essence of the park’s grandeur. This breathtaking vantage point offers you panoramic views that intertwine the deep gorge carved by the Genesee River with the lush forests that embrace the waterways below. It’s a place where the thundering majesty of the Middle Falls can be witnessed in its full glory, offering a symphony of nature’s power that’s both awe-inspiring and humbling.
To reach this remarkable vista, visitors are advised to enter through the Castile entrance of the park. A short drive along the park road, watching out for signposts, will lead you directly to Inspiration Point. Here, detailed guideposts offer easy instructions to ensure you don’t miss this iconic spot. Once there, plentiful picnic tables invite you to linger over a leisurely lunch, all the while soaking in the views that have inspired countless visitors before you. It’s more than just a stop; it’s a destination where memories are made, amidst the backdrop of one of New York State Parks’ crowning jewels.
The Genesee River Gorge: A Deep Dive
The Genesee River Gorge, often hailed as the beating heart of Letchworth State Park, showcases the park’s geological splendor with its deep and dramatic chasms carved out by the relentless flow of the Genesee River. This magnificent area, affectionately known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” boasts some of the most scenically magnificent areas not just in New York State Parks, but across the United States. The gorge presents an awe-inspiring canvas of lush forests cascading down cliffs to the Genesee River below.
For those eager to witness the gorge in all its glory, numerous vantage points are spread throughout the park. Inspiration Point offers panoramic views that capture the essence of the park’s grandeur, making it a must-see vistas. Additionally, the newly constructed Genesee Arch Bridge provides another unique perspective, allowing visitors a thrilling view of the river from above. Each location offers a unique lens through which to view the gorge, ensuring that every visit is as breathtaking as the last. Whether you’re a long-time admirer or a first-time visitor, the Genesee River Gorge stands as a testament to nature’s power and beauty, inviting all to explore its depths.
Picnicking at Wolf Creek
Imagine unfolding a picnic blanket amidst the lush greenery of Letchworth State Park, where the serene ambiance of Wolf Creek becomes the soundtrack to an idyllic afternoon. This creek not only offers a picturesque scene but also provides the perfect backdrop for a family picnic. Surrounded by towering trees and the melody of nature, it’s a moment where time seems to stand still, allowing you and your loved ones to bask in the beauty of the moment.
Nearby, the convenience of amenities ensures that your picnic is as comfortable as it is memorable. With picnic tables nestled in thoughtfully selected spots, you have the choice of setting up your feast in a shaded area, offering relief on warmer days.
Letchworth State Park: An Unforgettable Journey Awaits
Whether you came to Letchworth for its beautiful gorge, stunning waterfalls, whitewater rafting or the thrill of a hot air balloon ride your adventure to this park will be worth your trip. Discover miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and an abundance of wildlife as well as educational enrichment at the Humphrey Nature Center and William Pryor Letchworth Museum, this park caters to all.
From the breathtaking vistas at Inspiration Point to the tranquility of Wolf Creek, each corner of the park tells a story and creates memories. A true gem in the crown of New York State Parks, Letchworth’s legacy continues to enchant visitors from across the globe, securing its place as not just a park, but a destination with a soul.