Summary
- Letchworth State Park is known as the "Grand Canyon of the East" and offers stunning vistas, waterfalls, and forests in Upstate New York.
- Visitors can hike to the Upper Falls Scenic View and Middle Falls Lookout for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
- The pedestrian bridge at Lower Falls and the Archery Field Overlook provide panoramic views of the Genesee River gorge, while Inspiration Point offers exceptional views of the waterfalls and Upstate New York.
It's not hard to see why Letchworth State Park is called the "Grand Canyon of the East." From its winding river and rugged gorge to its stunning waterfalls and lush forests, it's definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Upstate New York.
The alluring destination offers visitors 14,350 acres to explore, which stretch for 17 miles along the banks of the State Park's centerpiece: the Genesee River. For those desiring a panoramic vantage point of New York's wondrous wilds, it's no secret that the best way to see Letchworth State Park is with a hot air balloon. However, from its scenic overlooks to its dramatic waterfall vistas, these beautiful views of the park are sure to leave one awestruck just the same.
10 See The Genesee Arch Bridge From The Upper Falls Scenic View
Letchworth State Park has some of the best hiking trails for all skill levels. For one breathtaking hike option, sightseers can head to the Upper Falls Scenic View to see unparalleled views of the park's second-tallest waterfall, Upper Falls, which stands about 70 feet high, and the Genesee Arch Bridge.
Located close to the Portageville Entrance, there is also a concession stand in the area called the Upper Falls Snack Bar for a quick pick-me-up.
- Address: 1 Letchworth State Park Castile NY 14427, Hunt, NY 14846
9 Marvel At The Rushing Waters At The Middle Falls Lookout
Visitors will find the mammoth Middle Falls sandwiched between Upper Falls and Lower Falls. The rushing waters span nearly 200 feet wide and tower about 108 feet tall above the ground, making for a fantastic photo opportunity.
Also, nearby are the historical landmark known as Council Grounds and the William Pryor Letchworth Museum, for those interested in learning about the State Park's fascinating history.
- Address: 6597 Park Rd, Castile, NY 14427
For more substantial food offerings, there is a restaurant located in the Glen Iris Inn, called Caroline's, which can be found near the Middle Falls.
8 Chase Waterfalls At Inspiration Point
For exceptional views of the Upper and Middle Falls and Upstate New York at large, a visit to Inspiration Point is an absolute must. Down the road, visitors will find the Letchworth State Park Visitor Center, which features a gift shop, informational kiosks, and bathrooms, as well as a charging station for electric vehicles.
- Address: Hunt, NY 14846
7 Cross The Pedestrian Bridge To See Lower Falls
The 46-foot-long Pedestrian Bridge, which stretches over the Genesee River, is one of the most beautiful nature spots in Upstate New York. The pedestrian crossing affords travelers amazing views of the scenic Lower Falls and the rushing waters below.
- Address: Lower Falls, Portage, NY 14846
For a nourishing meal and souvenirs to shop, the Lower Fall Restaurant and Gifts can be found nearby.
6 See The Gorge From The Archery Field Overlook
Located close to the Castile Entrance, this scenic overlook provides tourists with more incredible panoramic views of Upstate New York and the Great Bend in the Genesee River gorge. For those looking for the perfect Insta-worthy shot — Archery Field Overlook is the place to be.
- Address: Denton Corners Rd & Park Rd, Castile, NY 14427
5 Wander At Wolf Creek Scenic Waterfalls
It's no secret that Letchworth State Park is one of the best New York state parks with waterfalls. While some may say that the rushing waters of Wolf Creek aren't as magnificent as the waterfalls of Genesee River, this scenic oasis is still a sight to see.
- Address: Castile, NY 14846
For the quickest access to Wolf Creek Scenic Waterfalls, the Wolf Creek Parking lot can be found nearby.
4 Catch The Sunset At Eddy's Overlook
For more incredible views of the Genesee River gorge, head to Eddy's Overlook, which is located just down Park Road from the Wolf Creek Scenic Waterfalls. There's also a picnic area so be sure to pack a scrumptious meal to enjoy in the wilds of New York.
- Address: Eddy's Overlook, Hunt, NY 14846
Parking can also be found nearby at the Eddy's Parking lot.
3 Head Upriver To The Hilltop Gardeau Overlook
Nestled upriver along the Genesee, the Gardeau Overlook provides a hilltop vantage point of the surrounding river valley and its lush greenery. A campground can also be found nearby for those keen on hunkering down for the evening, making for an unforgettable Upstate adventure.
- Address: Unnamed Road, Castile, NY 14427
2 See Incredible Rock Formations At The Hogsback Overlook
Another fantastic hilltop vista, the Hogsback Overlook provides stunning views of the park and "the Hogsback." The unique rock formation's name stems from its resemblance to hairs that stand up on the back of male pigs.
In addition to the picturesque viewpoint, it provides visitors with access to various recreational activities at the nearby North Highbanks Recreation Shelter, which is located just down the road. The Harvey Swimming Pool, which is open from late June until Labor Day, is also located nearby.
- Address: Park Rd, Mt Morris, NY 14510
1 View The Mount Morris Dam
Situated upstream from the Hogsback Overlook on the northern end of the park, the Mount Morris Dam serves a vital purpose: it reduces flooding in downstream areas like Rochester.
Built in the late 1940s, it's also quite a sight to behold, and a day-use park and recreation area can be found nearby, which features a visitor center and offers ranger-guided walking tours of the dam.
- Address: Mount Morris Dam, Mt Morris, NY 14510
The Dam Overlook Gifts and Grill is also located nearby for a quick bite to eat while at Mount Morris Dam.