Best time to travel to New York State

Letchworth State Park Fall Foliage in New York State 2024

Don't miss one of New York's most beautiful fall destinations

Best time: early-mid-October 2024

Letchworth State Park, located in one hour drive from Buffalo, NY, offers everything for an amazing leaf-peeping adventure. The park, which is called the Grand Canyon of the East, occupies 14,000 acres and boasts many hiking trails, panoramic outlooks, breathtaking waterfalls, and winding roads, especially scenic when they are framed with spectacular golden fall foliage. The best natural photography locations in the park include Inspiration Point, Upper Falls, Middle Falls, and more amazing cliffs and overlook points.

Waterfalls

The Genesee River flows through Letchworth State Park for about 22 miles (35 km). The beautiful river gorge forms three impressive waterfalls, Upper Falls, Middle Falls, and Lower Falls, as well as many scenic whitewater rapids. Several easily accessible trails lead to waterfalls as well as along the Genesee River Gorge. Water mist and fall foliage create spectacular vistas, which attract many photography enthusiasts to the park every fall.

Hiking

Letchworth State Park is home to over 66 miles of hiking trails. The trails in the western part of the park are rather busy, especially on the weekend. For example, the 7-mile Genesee River Gorge Trail provides views of the three waterfalls and many scenic overlooks, such as Inspiration Point. On the contrary, the eastern side of the park is not that popular. You can take the 20-mile Letchworth Trail if you prefer less crowds. Mary Jemison Trail and Hemlock Trail are both short trails through wooded areas with many beautiful hemlock trees.

When to see fall foliage in Letchworth State Park

The first leaves on Letchworth Park start turning gold as early as September. However, If you want to see Letchwork trees in their peak colorful foliage and magnificence, you should come there from early- to mid-October. During this time, the trees boast the brightest reds, oranges, and yellows to delight your eye.

Entrance Fee and Hours

The park's daily hours are from 6 am to 11 pm. During the peak season, from May 11 to late October 20, the Letchworth State Park charges a $10 fee per vehicle. The fee is collected from 9 am to 5 pm daily.

Tips

Please keep in mind that the park is extremely busy on weekends and, when the area gets overcrowded, the administration must close it. In other words, it's best to plan your trip from Monday through Friday. Also, it is important to book your accommodation in advance. In addition to hiking and biking, the park offers whitewater rafting, kayaking, a swimming pool, and hot air ballooning.

Practical info

When is the peak fall foliage season for Letchworth State Park?

The park is best viewed in early to mid-October when the leaves on trees turn into shades of red, orange, and yellow. Although leaves start to change in September, fall foliage season at Letchworth is at its peak in October, attracting visitors who love admiring autumn’s magical views.

Which areas in Letchworth State Park provide the best fall foliage views?

The state park isn’t short of scenic spots to relish the fall foliage views. From Upper Falls, Middle Falls, and Inspiration Point to several overlook areas, there are enough spots to enjoy the striking landscape. You can hike through the park’s trails, drive through the winding roads, or sit back, relax and admire the picturesque autumn colors.

How much does it cost to enter Letchworth State Park in autumn?

A fee of $10 per day is charged when visiting Letchworth State Park during fall, until October 24th. After this date, one has to pay only on weekends. Moreover, you’re advised to plan and book your visit in advance due to the high demand experienced in the fall season and paperless entry being the new admission method.

When is the best time to plan a visit to Letchworth State Park to avoid heavy traffic?

Letchworth State Park is usually overcrowded with visitors during peak season, typically from early to mid-October. Since the park may close when overcrowded, it’s recommended to plan your visit on weekdays starting from Monday to Friday to avoid crowds and traffic. Remember to pre-book your accommodation early while considering the higher number of visitors during the fall season.

Which nearby areas offer accommodation options for those visiting Letchworth State Park in fall?

Visitors going to Letchworth State Park during fall have various options for accommodation. Accommodations range from hotels in nearby towns such as Geneseo and Mount Morris to cabins, lodges, and campgrounds. As fall is peak season, it is advisable to book your accommodation in advance to avoid disappointments. The busy period usually starts in October and draws many visitors seeking unforgettable fall experiences.

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