Letchworth State Park, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” is a magnificent natural attraction located in New York State. Spanning 17 miles along the Genesee River, the park boasts a gorge that reaches depths of up to 550 feet, earning it its famous nickname.
Letchworth State Park Entrance: Fees and Hours
The park is open daily from 6 AM to 11 PM, year-round. During the peak season, from Memorial Day to Columbus Day, entrance gates charge an entrance fee from 9 AM to 5 PM. Visitors aged 62 or older who are New York State residents can enter for free on weekdays, excluding holidays.
The Castile, NY (Main Entrance) requires a $10 entrance fee between 9 AM and 5 PM, with both cash and credit card accepted. Fees are charged from May to October. The Perry, NY entrance also requires a $10 fee during the same hours and timeframe. The Portageville, NY entrance has the same fee and hours, while the Parade Grounds entrance does not charge an entrance fee but is closed during the winter.
Activities and Attractions at Letchworth State Park
Letchworth State Park offers a wide range of activities and attractions, including hiking, biking, bird watching, canoeing, kayaking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, snow tubing, and horseback riding. The park also features picnic areas, playgrounds, volleyball courts, a dump station, restrooms, showers, and a water fill-up station.
Visitors can explore the Autism Nature Trail, a one-mile trail with eight sensory stations designed for individuals with autism or other related disabilities. The Humphrey Nature Center provides environmental education opportunities for school groups, scouts, youth organizations, and the general public, with programming and interactive exhibits highlighting the geology, wildlife, and ecology of the park.
The William Pryor Letchworth Museum in the Middle Falls Area features displays about early regional settlement and Native American Artifacts. The park is home to the Genesee River, which cascades over three falls, including the 107-foot drop of the Middle Falls. Lights illuminate the Middle Falls after dark from May through October.
Camping and Cabins at Letchworth State Park
Reservations for cabins and campsites in State Parks, as well as campgrounds run by the Environmental Conservation Department, are available through the NYS Cabin/Camping Reservation System. Call 1-800-456-CAMP (1-800-456-2267) or visit www.reserveamerica.com.
Location and Directions to Letchworth State Park
Letchworth State Park is located near major cities such as Rochester, Buffalo, Niagara Falls, Toronto, and New York City. It is also just 30 minutes from NYS Route 90 and NYS Route 86, making it easily accessible for visitors from various locations.
Empire Park Pass for Letchworth State Park
If you’re a frequent traveler to Letchworth State Park or any NYS Park, consider purchasing an Empire Pass. This pass allows unlimited day-use vehicle entry to NYS Parks, including forests, beaches, trails, and more, offering significant savings for regular visitors.
Letchworth State Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities, stunning views, and educational opportunities. With its convenient location and various entrance options, planning your visit to this “Grand Canyon of the East” is easy and accessible.
References:
– Letchworth State Park Official Website
– Letchworth Park General Information
– Letchworth State Park Camping Reservations
– Portageville Entrance to Letchworth State Park
– Letchworth State Park Travel Guide