Experience the Beauty of the Gorge Trail at Letchworth

If you’ve never been to Letchworth State Park you might not believe the words people use to describe it. Sometimes referred to as “The Grand Canyon of the East” or “Little Niagara Falls”, it is a truly impressive place. Having been to all 3 parks, some several times, they are all absolutely amazing natural wonders. What makes this state park special is how accessible it is and intimate it feels compared to the other two, despite its scale.

The Grand Canyon is so unbelievably vast and deep and layered with texture and color that it passes beyond beautiful into the surreal. The sheer volume of water that rages over Niagara Falls at several points simultaneously is mesmerizing and incredulous at the same time – it’s the only rationale I have for people thinking it’s a good idea (it’s not!) to ride the falls in a barrel or otherwise.

If you do make the journey to Letchworth State Park, make a day of it – it will be worth it. There are over 60 miles of trails to explore. However, for a first visit I’d recommend taking the Castile entrance at the south western end of the park.  Almost immediately after passing through the gate you’re greeted by a spectacular view of the Gorge from Humphrey’s Overlook slightly to the north and Archery Field Overlook slightly to the south. The cliffs slope sharply hundreds of feet down to the Genesee River that carved the canyon. You can spot many large birds of prey circling or nesting in the area.

From there follow the Gorge trail south and hit up every stop along the way and explore – you won’t regret it. There are many photo opportunities and buildings of interest throughout the park on this trail. The gems on this trail are the trilogy of falls – Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls. Each of those has a special appeal, but the Middle Falls are really the centerpiece and close to the visitor center, Humphrey’s nature center, the museum, and the Glen Iris Inn. But do continue onward to visit the Upper Falls, too.

Anyone that I’ve met who has been to  Letchworth State Park speaks more fondly of it than Niagara Falls. Niagara is not too far from Letchworth and is definitely worth visiting at least once in your lifetime. However, Letchworth is one you want to visit over and over again and can’t wait to see once more.

Let me know after you visit which you prefer more. There is no wrong answer here, but I’d like to hear your opinion. Or if you have another park you’d recommend that can’t be missed!

https://parks.ny.gov/visit/state-parks/letchworth-state-park

Words and images by Michael J. Hall