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Hike the Gorge Trail in Letchworth State Park

Hunt, New York

5.0/5
based on 5 reviews

Details

Distance

7 miles

Route Type

Point-to-Point

Description

Added by The Outbound Collective

Voted the #1 State Park in the Nation by USA Today's Readers Choice in 2015.

There are over 66 miles of trails to explore at Letchworth State Park; however, the most popular and the one I chose is the Gorge Trail. This trail runs 7 miles from point-to-point passing by three lovely waterfalls. It travels parallel to the main road for the majority of the hike.

You can start at either end or any section between as there are many parking lots throughout the park. I started near the Portageville entrance at the Upper Falls. Most of the trail follows the edge of the Genesee River Gorge. During your hike you will pass by Upper Falls, Middle Falls, Inspiration Point, Lower Falls as well as several picnic areas.

There is a vehicle entrance fee of $8.00 collected from mid-May through mid-October.

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Features

Hunting
Camping
Fishing
Photography
Running
Swimming
Snowshoeing
Hiking
Bathrooms
Dog Friendly
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Picnic Area
River
Romantic
Scenic
Waterfall
ADA Accessible

Hike the Gorge Trail in Letchworth State Park Reviews

All three waterfalls that you come across are HUGE. Definitely breath taking. I went early October and practically had all of the waterfalls to myself. The state park has a ton of other trails as well and there's beautiful scenery every step you take.

Easy trail, beautiful views, perfect for a day of hiking or if you just want to appreciate nature.

I started at the Upper Falls and finished the hike at St. Helena. Bring water bottles, will be able to fill the bottles at fountains along trail. Trail moves to the road for a quarter mile or so near the Rafting House. The main attraction is the Falls area, which can be crowded. For more solitude, the trails at the Northern end of the Park are excellent. Pick up a trail map at the Visitor Center or at Highbanks Campground. Highbanks campground has sites with picnic tables, fire rings, a camp store, and bathrooms with showers. Reservations recommended.

The Gorge Trail is an adventure in itself, but, but all of Letchworth State Park is a great day trip destination! Every corner you turn here is picture-worthy, highly recommend.

Many hiking options here.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Inspiration Point and Lower Falls via Gorge Trail

Camp at the Highbanks Campground (Letchworth State Park)

Hike to Papermill Falls

Stony Brook Via East Rim and Gorge Trails

Uplands Hiking Trail along Barnes Gulley

Hike to Eternal Flame Falls in Chestnut Ridge Park