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Explore Letchworth State Park - the "Grand Canyon of the East"

posted by Teresa Farrell at 2018-07-12 19:46:00

In the western part of New York State lies a natural gem that has been earning the praise of visitors from far and wide for centuries. Known to many as the “Grand Canyon of the East”, Letchworth State Park  is a major Western New York  treasure—historically, geologically, and recreationally.  In 2015, Letchworth even won the USA TODAY Readers’ Choice Award for Best State Park in the United States.


Like its cousin the Colorado did with the Arizona’s Grand Canyon, the Genesee River carved the canyons and crevices that created the Letchworth  landscape we see today over the course of hundreds of years. The layers reveal a long story: this land was once at the bottom of a sea, then subjected to the ravages of an ice age before it became the platform for the sculpting skills of the Genesee River.


Today, the winding river spills over three distinct waterfalls within the park, tumbling down 160 feet at one particular spot and creating a trifecta of don’t-miss sites to visit during your stay. Inspiration Point provides a great view up toward the middle falls and, true to its name, draws onlookers to contemplate the majestic site.


Other famous Letchworth landmarks of note: the Hog’s Back, a raised ridge that juts out into the canyon valley, and the Gardeau, Tea Table and Mount Morris Dam Overlooks, each of which provides a different perspective from a different point along the canyon’s edge.


As you might expect, there’s hiking; in fact, there are 66 miles of hiking trails  running through the park, ranging in distance and intensity from short, easy jaunts to winding paths that hug the rims of cliffs as they wind through the canyon. Cyclists can enjoy some of these trails as well. Picnic areas and playgrounds for the kids can be found throughout the park, always popular spots to relax and enjoy a summer afternoon.


Swimmers can enjoy the park’s Harvey pool. There’s also opportunity to try whitewater rafting, a hot air balloon  ride, or a spin in a single-engine plane, all either within the park or in town close by.


You can spend the night on a campsite, rent a cabin, or make a reservation  at the Maplewood Lodge, the Glen Iris Inn or other spots for indoor accommodations within the park that add a bit of flair.  
 

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