Letchworth State Park (New York)
“The Grand Canyon of the East”
Letchworth State Park is located in western New York State. The park is over 14,000 acres and 17 miles long, following the course of the Genesee River as it flows north through a deep gorge and over several large waterfalls. Its southeast portion is considered its "wilder" side, since the opposite (western) bank of the Genesee River is more developed and family friendly . . .
A Hike to See It All
7.2 miles, 1000ft elevation gain, AllTrails
Here is a great way to see some of the best aspects of the park (on both banks of the river) in a single day including all of the waterfalls and a stone footbridge. The terrain is relaxed and scenic with intermittent stone staircases as you ascend and descend the waterfalls.
Parking: Start here just past Letchworth's Parade Grounds on the eastern bank of the Genesee.
Details: Start off hiking south with this 3.5 mile (total) out-and-back "past spectacular views of Letchworth Canyon, amazing views of waterfalls, a walk under the high railroad bridge and an unbelievable view from the top of Upper Falls."
You have the option to refresh your layers/food/water at your car before proceeding north towards the Portage Trail for an additional ~4 miles (total) of hiking. The Portage Trail (0.5 miles) leads to the Footbridge Trail (0.5 miles) which crosses the Genesee River for beautiful views of the Lower Falls, and then connects up to the Gorge Trail which leads to the "Lower Fall Restaurant and Gifts" open 11am-8pm for a small snack or lunch at the 5.5 mile mark. Then back to the car for a total of 7.2 miles / 1,000ft of elevation gain on the day.
Campgrounds / Stony Brook State Park
If you plan far enough in advance, you can reserve a campsite in Letchworth State Park. Otherwise, Stony Brook State Park, 30 minutes east of Letchworth, also has campsites, as well as 500+ acres of hilly woodlands, a deep gorge with rugged cliffs, 3 waterfalls and fascinating rock formations.
Stony Brook has several hikes ranging from 0.75-1.5 miles that you can also enjoy during your visit. A great choice is the approximate ~2.5 mile clockwise loop of the Gorge Trail and East Rim Trail. (See Map Below).
