Letchworth State Park, known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” offers a wide range of activities for state park touring enthusiasts. The park spans 17 miles along the Genesee River, which has carved a gorge as deep as 550 feet in some places. From hiking and water sports to nature and history programs, Letchworth State Park has something for everyone.
Hiking Trails
Hiking is a popular activity in Letchworth State Park, with 66 miles of trails available. The seven-mile Gorge Trail is open year-round and provides breathtaking views of the Genesee River Gorge. However, due to scaling activities, the Lower Falls Trail (6A) is temporarily closed from the East side of the bridge to the Portage Trail (6) until further notice. It remains accessible from the West side of the river.
Water Activities
For those interested in water activities, Letchworth offers whitewater rafting, kayaking, and a pool for swimming. In the winter, visitors can enjoy snow tubing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.
Nature, History, and Performing Arts Programs
Letchworth State Park offers a variety of nature, history, and performing arts programs, including guided walks, tours, and a summer lecture series. The Humphrey Nature Center provides year-round 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.
Autism Nature Trail (A.N.T.)
Letchworth State Park is home to the Autism Nature Trail (A.N.T.), a mile-long trail with eight sensory stations designed for individuals with autism or other related disabilities.
Accommodations and Dining
Visitors can enjoy the historic Glen Iris Inn, which offers overnight accommodations and is open to the public for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Banquet and catering services are available for special events.
Birdwatching and Diverse Forest
Letchworth has been designated as a Bird Conservation Area, with more than twenty species of wood warblers regularly nesting in the park every year. Fifty species of trees have been located in a 25-acre virgin forest within the park, perhaps the most diverse forest of this size at this latitude in the entire world.
Sustainability Efforts
The park has implemented no-mow zones throughout the middle of the park, reducing equipment and gas use and promoting vegetation growth and habitat.
Costs and Hours of Operation
Here are the costs and hours of operation for some of the key attractions and activities in Letchworth State Park:
| Attraction/Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Entry Fee | $10 per vehicle for the day |
| Glen Iris Inn | Rates vary depending on the room and time of year |
| Humphrey Nature Center | Free admission, but some programs may have a fee |
| The Arcade & Attica Railroad | Tickets range from $15 to $30, depending on the type of train ride and age of the passenger |
| Arts Council for Wyoming County | Free admission to the gallery and shop, but some classes, workshops, concerts, and films may have a fee |
| Beaver Meadow Audubon Center | Trails are free and open to the public 24/7, Visitors Center and Indoor Exhibits are open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Admission: $5 for adults, $3 for children 3-15, free for members) |
| Charcoal Corral and Silver Lake Twin Drive-In | Miniature golf: $5 per person, Video arcade: $0.25 per game, Drive-in movie tickets: $10 for adults, $5 for children 5-11 |
| East Hill Creamery | Cheese tastings and store purchases vary in cost |
| Hidden Valley Animal Adventure | Driving tour: $22 for adults, $15 for children 3-11, free for children under 3 |
| Amber Lantern Brewing Company | Beer and food prices vary |
| Buried Barrel Hard Cider | Hard cider prices vary |
| Main Street Winery | Wine prices vary |
| Silver Lake Brewing Project | Beer and snack prices vary |
| Windy Brew | Beer and food prices vary |
References:
– TripAdvisor – Attractions Near Letchworth State Park
– Go Wyoming County NY – What’s Nearby Letchworth State Park
– New York State Parks – Letchworth State Park