Genesee Valley Greenway
🌤 Weather at Genesee Valley Greenway by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24–69 °F | 56–81 °F | 32–73 °F | 15–37 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Mount Morris 2 W, 5 mi away, elevation 880 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 90-Mile Mega Trail — 90-mile multi-use trail from Rochester to Cuba — one of the LONGEST rail trails in the United States, following the historic Genesee Valley Canal
Genesee Valley Greenway is a 90-mile multi-use trail running from Rochester south to Cuba — one of the longest rail trails in the United States! The trail follows the route of the historic Genesee Valley Canal (1840–1878), which connected the Erie Canal at Rochester to the Allegheny River at Olean — providing a water route from the Great Lakes to the Ohio/Mississippi river system. The trail passes through the spectacular Letchworth State Park gorge (the “Grand Canyon of the East” — 600 feet deep!) and crosses 17 feet of elevation change per mile on average.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Rochester to Cuba, NY |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Length | 90 miles — one of longest in US! |
| History | Genesee Valley Canal 1840–1878! |
About Genesee Valley Greenway
Genesee Valley Greenway is a 90-mile multi-use trail following the former Genesee Valley Canal (1840-1878) and Pennsylvania Railroad through western New York from Rochester to Cuba. The trail passes through the dramatic Letchworth State Park gorge — the “Grand Canyon of the East” with 600-foot cliffs — and connects dozens of small communities in the agricultural heartland of the Genesee Valley.
Things to Do
Hiking, biking, and horseback riding the 90-mile trail, passing through Letchworth State Park, crossing historic canal locks and railroad bridges, birdwatching, and cross-country skiing in winter.
Insider Tips
Rail trail: The Genesee Valley Greenway follows the historic Genesee Valley Canal (1840-1878) and railroad corridor for 90 miles. Pro tip: The Genesee River valley was the “breadbasket of the nation” in the early 1800s — Rochester was “Flour City” before becoming “Flower City.” Letchworth: Nearby Letchworth State Park is called the “Grand Canyon of the East” — a 17-mile gorge with 600-foot cliffs.
Best Time to Visit
Fall: Valley foliage. Summer: Full trail season. Spring: Wildflowers. Winter: Cross-country skiing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Letchworth called the Grand Canyon of the East?
Letchworth State Park features a 17-mile gorge with cliffs up to 600 feet — the Genesee River drops over three major waterfalls (the tallest is 107 feet). The dramatic scenery earned the “Grand Canyon of the East” nickname. The park was saved from industrial development by William Pryor Letchworth, who donated his estate to the state in 1906 — one of the earliest acts of private conservation in New York.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Conesus Lake Boat Launch (a short drive away) or Letchworth State Park (a short drive away).
Wildlife & Nature
Genesee Valley Greenway — a 90-mile multi-use trail following the former Genesee Valley Canal and Pennsylvania Railroad corridor from Rochester to Cuba (Allegany County). The trail passes through farmland, forests, and river valleys. Bald eagles patrol the Genesee River. Great blue herons fish the canal remnants. White-tailed deer cross the trail. Bluebirds nest in boxes along the route.
Nearby Attractions
Rochester — northern terminus. Letchworth SP — trail passes nearby — has the “Grand Canyon of the East” (600-foot gorge). Geneseo — midpoint — has the charming college town. Cuba — southern terminus — has Allegany SP nearby.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Genesee Valley Greenway
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are permitted in most state parks and campgrounds (maximum two pets per site where allowed), but policies vary by park and some parks prohibit pets entirely.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 6 ft required, pet under control at all times
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted on guarded beaches, boardwalks, pools or spray-grounds
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- No uniform statewide rule — pets are prohibited in buildings and most cabins, but some parks designate pet-friendly cabin areas (e.g. Letchworth Cabin Area C); check with the individual park
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Proof of rabies vaccination required upon request; maximum two pets per campsite; some parks (e.g. Wildwood State Park) do not allow pets at all
Are dogs allowed at Genesee Valley Greenway?
Pets are permitted in most state parks and campgrounds (maximum two pets per site where allowed), but policies vary by park and some parks prohibit pets entirely. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via parks.ny.gov. More: New York state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
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