Letchworth State Park in Western New York is one of the foremost exquisite scenic areas in the US, and undeniably a jewel in the Empire State’s crown.

A USA Today poll found Letchworth State Park voted best in the nation out of 6,000 contenders, and in 2020, the park topped an identical list, again!

There are several sets of waterfalls at Letchworth State Park. It’s worth taking the time to see them all. The nice thing about this park is it doesn’t require a lot of walking if you don’t want it to. You can drive to just about every attraction.

Letchworth is popularly cited as the “Grand Canyon of the East”, and has no problem living up to that reputation. Every time I visit the park it takes my breath away. The sheer size of it all is nearly unfathomable and can’t be captured in photographs.

This 14,350-acre scenic park supplies year-round recreational activities and accommodation, including three large waterfalls: the Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls, each chiseled by the Genesee River that thunders through the gorge then rambles through the park.

Along with the breathtaking scenery, the park’s accommodations include pavilions and picnic areas, playgrounds, and 66 miles of hiking trails within the park, but you will easily bike or drive to every spot of interest. There are two large swimming pools, cabins, campsites for tents, trailer sites with dumping stations, and horse riding trails. 

This bow in the river is something to see. The sheer size of this place can’t be seen in photos. Take a look at the people standing on the edge of the cliff in the foreground. Then, look at the size of the full-grown trees on the hogback ridge.

Activities within the park include hiking, fishing, biking, whitewater rafting, and kayaking, geocaching, and hunting (wild turkey and deer when in season). During the winter, the park facilitates snowmobiling, skiing, snow tubing, and drawn sleighs.

The William Pryor Letchworth Museum tells the story of the park from the prehistoric era to modern times. The museum holds the collections of benefactor William Pryor Letchworth, including Native American and pioneer artifacts. The museum also details the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps in the park.

Because of the social distancing as of late, you might find that some of the park’s amenities are not available. You’ll certainly find the basics like restrooms, but don’t assume things like gift shops and food concession will be open. 

Letchworth State Park is hands down one of the most amazing things you’ll ever see. Take the trip. You won’t regret it.

Born and raised in Upstate New York, Mathew lives in a wooded valley north of the Susquehanna River with his wife and kids. His first book "Simple Sutras" was published in 2014.

Cover photo credit: Jim Vallee