Known as “The Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park in western New York is a destination that has long been on my must-visit list. With its towering waterfalls, deep gorge, and expansive trails, it’s a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike. While my first visit was met with limited park access, what I was able to see left me in awe and eager to return for a full experience.
Driving into Letchworth, I immediately felt surrounded by the park’s natural beauty and vast landscape. Though certain areas were closed, the sheer scale of the gorge and the dramatic cliffs rising above the Genesee River still made for an unforgettable experience.
The highlight of my visit was seeing Middle Falls, one of the three major waterfalls in the park. Despite limited access, this powerful cascade still stole the show. The mist rising from the falls, catching the sunlight, created a dreamy, almost ethereal atmosphere. The nearby Inspiration Point, one of the most famous overlooks, was thankfully open, allowing for sweeping views of the gorge and waterfalls framed by the early spring greenery.
Due to seasonal closures and trail maintenance, many areas of the park were inaccessible during my visit. Some of the trails, scenic overlooks, and Lower Falls area were closed, which meant I couldn’t explore as much of the gorge as I had hoped. The Portage Bridge, which beautifully frames Upper Falls, was also harder to photograph due to restricted access.
Despite these limitations, I still found plenty of beauty to capture. The partially frozen waterfalls, the winding river cutting through the deep gorge, and the dramatic cloud formations above made every scene feel like a painting. Even with fewer trails open, Letchworth’s natural grandeur still made the visit well worth it.
While I was grateful to see even a portion of the park, I left knowing that I need to return when everything is fully open. Next time, I want to:
✔️ Hike the Gorge Trail – This iconic trail provides access to all three waterfalls and some of the best views in the park.
✔️ Explore Lower Falls – One of the most unique parts of the park, featuring a historic stone footbridge.
✔️ Visit in Peak Fall Colors – Letchworth is known for its stunning autumn foliage, and I can only imagine how magical it looks in peak season.
✔️ Experience a Hot Air Balloon Ride – Floating above the gorge at sunrise? Yes, please! (maybe….lol)
Though my first visit to Letchworth State Park was somewhat restricted, it was still an incredible experience. The views I was able to see made it clear why this park is considered one of New York’s most beautiful natural wonders. If you’re planning a visit, I highly recommend checking for seasonal closures and trail conditions, but even with limited access, you won’t be disappointed by the park’s stunning landscapes.
I’m already looking forward to returning when everything is open—because if a limited visit was this breathtaking, I can only imagine how incredible a full experience will be.
Happy trails!
<3 Ann