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.
Hsa Htaw / 500px via Getty Images 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.
Leembe/iStock via Getty Images Plus The meandering, 17-mile stretch of the Genesee River also make for pretty epic water recreation.
Letchworth State Park’s panoramas are unreal, with the Genesee River thundering through the gorge and over three major waterfalls.
The Photo Matrix via Getty Images
The Upper Falls cascades 40 feet down the river and sit beneath a railroad bridge.
JimVallee/iStock via Getty Images Plus You can get a good look at the falls from Inspiration Point, where there is are coin-op binoculars to get a closer look.
The Middle Falls is arguably the most astounding.
Michael Ver Sprill/iStock via Getty Images 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.
JimVallee/iStock via Getty Images Plus 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.
Posnov/Moment Collection via Getty Images Letchworth’s waterfalls are the muse of this inspired natural work of art.
At the historic Glen Iris Inn, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Middle Falls from the suites.
Gary Brownell/Flickr 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.
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.
scott olson/AllTrails 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.
Tony Shi Photography via Getty Images The scenic views are an immense payoff for your efforts.
The Genesee Falls Gorge Trail is an equally amazing hike at the park.
Orchidpoet/E+ Collection via Getty Images 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.
Adventure Calls Outfitters, Inc./Facebook 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.
JimVallee/iStock via Getty Images Plus 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.
Believe it or not, the incredible views don’t die down with the sunset; the stargazing at Letchworth is out-of-this-world.
Michael Orso/Moment Collection via Getty Images 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.
Chris Murray/Getty Images 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.
Hsa Htaw / 500px via Getty Images
This state park stretches for 14,350 resplendent acres and contains some of the most stunning gorges and waterfalls in the entire country.
Leembe/iStock via Getty Images Plus
The meandering, 17-mile stretch of the Genesee River also make for pretty epic water recreation.
The Photo Matrix via Getty Images
JimVallee/iStock via Getty Images Plus
You can get a good look at the falls from Inspiration Point, where there is are coin-op binoculars to get a closer look.
Michael Ver Sprill/iStock via Getty Images
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.
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.
Posnov/Moment Collection via Getty Images
Letchworth’s waterfalls are the muse of this inspired natural work of art.
Gary Brownell/Flickr
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.
scott olson/AllTrails
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.
Tony Shi Photography via Getty Images
The scenic views are an immense payoff for your efforts.
Orchidpoet/E+ Collection via Getty Images
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.
Adventure Calls Outfitters, Inc./Facebook
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.
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.
Michael Orso/Moment Collection via Getty Images
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.
Chris Murray/Getty Images
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.
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.
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Address: Letchworth State Park, 1 Letchworth State Park, Castile, NY 14427, USA
