Letchworth State Park
Letchworth State Park: New York’s Grand Canyon of the East
In western New York, the Genesee River has carved a masterpiece. Over millions of years, the water has sliced through 600 feet of ancient rock, creating a gorge so dramatic that it earned the name “Grand Canyon of the East.” Within this 17-mile chasm, three majestic waterfalls cascade over ledges of shale and sandstone, while 66 miles of hiking trails wind through forests of oak, hemlock, and tulip tree along the gorge rim.
Letchworth State Park protects 14,350 acres of this geological wonder. It’s consistently voted one of the best state parks in America — a place where you can hike along sheer 600-foot cliffs in the morning, soar over waterfalls in a hot air balloon at sunset, and fall asleep in a creekside cabin under star-filled skies. From the thundering 107-foot Middle Falls to the quiet solitude of backcountry trails, Letchworth delivers a landscape that rivals national parks in scale, beauty, and diversity.
Park Facts at a Glance
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Location | Livingston & Wyoming Counties, Western New York |
| 📐 Park Size | 14,350 acres |
| 🏞️ Gorge | 17 miles long, up to 600 feet deep |
| 💧 Waterfalls | 3 major falls (Upper, Middle 107 ft, Lower) + Inspiration Falls (350 ft) |
| 🥾 Trails | 66 miles of hiking trails |
| 🏕️ Camping | 257 campsites (electric), 81 cabins, 2 cottages |
| 🎈 Hot Air Balloons | Balloons Over Letchworth (May-Oct) |
| 💰 Entry Fee | $10/vehicle (free for campers) |
| 🕐 Hours | Year-round, dawn to dusk |
| 📞 Phone | (585) 493-3600 |
| 🌐 Website | parks.ny.gov |
The Gorge and Waterfalls
The Genesee River Gorge is the defining feature of Letchworth. Over 17 miles, the river has carved through layers of Devonian-era shales, siltstones, and sandstones — rock deposited 350-400 million years ago when this region was a shallow tropical sea. The result is a canyon with sheer walls rising up to 600 feet, layered in bands of gray, red, and brown stone.
The Three Major Waterfalls
| Waterfall | Height | Best Viewpoint |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Falls | 70 feet | Gorge Trail viewpoints above the railroad bridge |
| Middle Falls | 107 feet | Inspiration Point overlook — the park’s most iconic view |
| Lower Falls | 60 feet | Lower Falls Footbridge and trail overlooks |
Beyond the big three, the park harbors lesser-known gems: Wolf Creek Falls and the extraordinary Inspiration Falls, which at 350 feet is the tallest single-drop waterfall in New York State — a hidden treasure that few visitors discover.
Hiking: 66 Miles of Trails
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gorge Trail (#1) | 7.5 mi | Moderate | The signature trail — views of all three waterfalls, gorge rim |
| Mary Jemison Trail | Various | Easy-Mod | Named for the “White Woman of the Genesee,” connects to historic sites |
| Highbanks Trail | 7.0 mi | Moderate | Less crowded west side of gorge, excellent birding |
| Finger Lakes Trail | 24 mi (section) | Strenuous | Long-distance trail crossing through the park |
| Dehgayàsoh Creek Trail | 1.5 mi | Easy | Accessible nature walk through forest |
Hot Air Balloon Rides
Balloons Over Letchworth is the only company authorized to launch from within the park, lifting off from a meadow near Middle Falls. A hot air balloon ride over the gorge is one of the most extraordinary ways to experience any state park in America — floating silently above the 600-foot canyon as three waterfalls cascade below. Flights operate May through October, weather permitting. Book well in advance, especially for fall foliage season.
Camping and Lodging
| Accommodation | Count | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Campsites | 257 | 8 loops, some pet-friendly (loops 100, 200, 700, 800) |
| Cabins | 81 | A-frame and cottage-style, various sizes |
| Cottages | 2 | Larger family accommodations |
| Glen Iris Inn | Historic inn | Overlooking Middle Falls (the park’s former private estate) |
Campground amenities include flush toilets, hot showers, laundry, dump station, and a swimming pool. Rates are $24-$26/night for campsites. The Glen Iris Inn — the former estate of William Pryor Letchworth, who donated the land — sits directly overlooking Middle Falls; its dining room may have the most spectacular restaurant view in New York State.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Conditions | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr-May) | High water, wildflowers, 40-70°F | Most powerful waterfalls, fewer crowds |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Warm, green, 70-85°F | Camping, swimming pool, balloon rides, full trail access |
| Fall (Sep-Oct) | Peak foliage, 50-70°F | Most spectacular views — gorge framed in crimson and gold |
| Winter (Nov-Mar) | Snow, ice, 15-35°F | Frozen waterfalls, cross-country skiing, winter photography |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter Letchworth State Park?
The entrance fee is $10 per vehicle. This fee is waived for overnight guests (campers, cabin, and inn guests). An Empire Pass ($80/year) provides unlimited access to all New York State Parks. The park is open year-round from dawn to dusk.
Can you swim at Letchworth State Park?
Swimming is not permitted in the Genesee River or at the base of the waterfalls. However, the park has a swimming pool available for campers and day visitors during summer months. There is also a designated fishing area along the river.
What is the best trail to see all three waterfalls?
The Gorge Trail (Trail #1) is a 7.5-mile moderate hike that follows the rim of the gorge and provides viewpoints of all three major waterfalls — Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls. For a shorter experience, the area around Inspiration Point and Middle Falls is accessible from parking areas with only a short walk.
How much do hot air balloon rides cost at Letchworth?
Balloons Over Letchworth typically charges around $250-$375 per person for a flight over the gorge. Flights operate May through October, weather permitting. Sunset flights are most popular, as the golden light on the gorge walls is spectacular. Book well in advance, especially during fall foliage season (October), which is the most spectacular and most requested time.
When is the best time to see fall foliage at Letchworth?
Peak fall foliage at Letchworth State Park typically occurs in mid-to-late October. The gorge becomes a tapestry of crimson maples, golden birches, and russet oaks against the gray rock walls. It’s the most popular time to visit, so arrive early on weekends. A hot air balloon ride during peak foliage is one of the most unforgettable experiences in any American state park.
