Letchworth State Park
Hiking, Camping, Rafting and More in an Historic Park!
Located in Western New York State about an hour south of Rochester, Letchworth State Park is a beautiful park composed of 22 square miles along the Genesee River.
The Seneca and the Park
To the Seneca Indians, the area of the park was sacred. The Seneca Nation would hold councils in the area, not far from the waterfalls. The most famous of the Seneca was Mary Jemison (1743-1833), born to European parents but later captured and adopted by the Seneca. She is buried in Letchworth State Park, and there is a stature there to mark her memory.
William Pryor Letchworth
By the time William Pryor Letchworth (1823-1910) was born, the Seneca were mostly gone from the region. A successful businessman and philanthropist, he bought some land along the Genesee River in the mid-nineteenth century. He added to it, and before long had a sizeable piece of land. In 1906 he donated it all to the State of New York with the provision that it be made into a park.
The Park Today
Today Letchworth State Park covers 22 square miles of pristine forest and gorges. The park is long and narrow, and the Genesee River runs through it on its way to Lake Ontario. The highlight is without a doubt the southern section, where the river passes over a series of three breathtaking waterfalls, referred to simply as the upper, lower and middle falls. Over the centuries, the river has carved out a series of scenic gorges, giving the park its nickname “The Grand Canyon of the East.” The park is in New York's Finger Lakes region, home to many other beautiful parks and some good wineries.
Glen Iris Inn
In 1906, Letchworth donated his country home, which he had named “Glen Iris,” along with his land. He had a modest house on a scenic bluff with a breathtaking view of the Middle Falls. Glen Iris is still standing, and is operating as an inn. It is open from March to November, and is a popular place to spend a night or enjoy a fine dinner. Glen Iris is also very much sought-after for wedding receptions and other special events.
Things to do in Letchworth
Letchworth State Park has outstanding camping facilities. There is also a large pool, countless pavilions and literally miles of hiking and riding trails. Some local stables offer tours of the park on horseback. Whitewater rafting is a popular activity, and fishing is also possible in some areas as long as you have a license. In the winter, the park is popular with cross-country skiers and snowmobilers. Hot-air balloon tours are available and cabins can be rented. The park also organizes educational hikes and programs for children.
Getting There
Letchworth State Park is about an hour south of Rochester and borders the small towns of Castile, Mount Morris, Perry and Portageville. To get there from Rochester, simply head south on route 390 and follow the signs through Mount Morris.
Go to the official Letchworth State Park Page at New York State Parks
