When is the park open?

General park hours are 6:00am through 11:00pm (with the exception of guests staying in campgrounds, cabin areas, cottages and at the Glen Iris Inn.) All visitors, including visitors of reserved guests must leave the park by 11pm.

How many entrances are there to the park?

The park has four main entrances on the West side – Mt. Morris, Perry, Castile, and Portageville. On the East side, there are two main entrances – Mt. Morris Dam and Parade Grounds.

How deep is the deepest part of the gorge?

The gorge is approximately 550 feet deep.

How tall are the three main waterfalls at the park?

Upper Falls – 70 feet
Middle Falls – 107 feet
Lower Falls – 70 feet

Is there cell phone service in the park?

Service is very spotty throughout the park, particularly at the South end. Public Wi-Fi is available at the Humphrey Nature Center.

How do I make a reservation for a cabin, campsite, shelter, or cottage at the park?

All reservations for facilities operated by NYSOPHRP must be made through Reserve America either online or by calling (800) 456-2267. If you would like to make a reservation for the Glen Iris Inn or one of the cottages they manage, you must contact them directly at (585) 493-2622 or visit their website.

Can I bring my pet to the park?

All visitors may bring domestic pets providing they have all current vaccinations and are on a leash having a maximum length of six feet. Pets are not allowed in buildings, cabins, or certain camping loops. Campers please call the park visitor center or camping office for specific pet rules in the campgrounds.

Why no garbage cans?

Trash cans had been a problem for many years in the park. They would get overfilled and spillover, animals would overturn them and it became very expensive to collect the rubbish so Letchworth became a carry-in, carry out park. People take their trash with them when they leave the park. This helps keep the park cleaner, makes animals depend more on natural foods and saves expense. Hopefully, it also makes visitors more aware of the waste they generate and inspires them to practice the “three R’s” – Reduce-Reuse-Recycle.

What is the most scenic trail in the park?

Trail 1, the Gorge Trail at approximately 7 miles long one-way, at the south end of the park and passing by all three major waterfalls, is often considered the most scenic trail.

Can I have direct access to the Genesee River gorge?

Access to the river gorge is allowed at Trail 5 (Lee’s Landing) and Trail 13 (St. Helena) for fishing and permitted kayaking purposes only. All other access to the river gorge including swimming is prohibited.

Can I canoe or kayak at the park?

Canoeing or kayaking is allowed by permit. Please call the park visitor center for more details. Whitewater only.

Are there areas I shouldn’t go to while at Letchworth?

Yes. Do not enter the water, river or gorge. Do not go beyond any “Do Not Enter” or “Trail Closed” signs in the park. Stay on marked trails and follow all signs or other directives in the park. Do not cross or stand on walls.

Can I access the Genesee Arch Railroad Bridge?

No. Access to the Genesee Arch railroad bridge is absolutely prohibited as it is private property, and due to the high risk of danger. Access to the railroad bridge area is dangerous because visitors may fall off the bridge and/or be hit by a moving train, which could result in serious bodily injury and death.

Can I fly a drone at Letchworth?

Drones can be used by permit only in certain areas of the park. Fees and insurance requirements apply. Please call the park visitor center for more details at (585) 493-3600.

When I look at the Mt. Morris Dam from the overlook, why is there no water, at times behind the dam?

The river is allowed to pass naturally through the Mt. Morris Dam until heavy rain increases the risk of flooding. When this occurs, the Dam stores water until it can be safely released. During dry periods, the river may only be visible from overlooks at the Mt. Morris Dam and Recreation Area. To learn more, please call or visit the Mt. Morris Dam on the northeast side of the Gorge at (585) 658-4790.

Can you fish and hunt at the park?

Fishing is allowed at Trout Pond, St. Helena, and Lee’s Landing. Hunting is allowed by permit only during the New York State regulated hunting seasons. Please call the visitor center or go online for more information.

How do I go on a rafting trip at the park?

Adventure Calls Outfitters is the only rafting company in the park. Contact them at (585) 343-4710 or (800) 270-2410 or visit their website.

How do I reserve a hot air balloon ride at the park?

Balloons Over Letchworth is the official hot air balloon company of Letchworth State Park. Rides are at dawn and dusk, weather permitting. Contact them at (585) 493-3340 or visit their website.

How do I make arrangements for my wedding and reception in the park?

Getting married at the park is free; however, it is asked that bridal parties call the visitor’s center to ensure area availability for the event. Regular vehicle admission fees apply and additional permits may be required depending on the activities of the event.

Where can I ride my horse?

Please reference the official Letchworth State Park map for specific trails where horseback riding is allowed. There is no horseback riding concession at the park.

How far is the nearest hospital from the visitor’s center?

Wyoming County Community Hospital is located
at 400 North Main Street, Warsaw, NY 14569 (585) 786-2233 (approx. 15 miles).

Noyes Memorial Hospital is at 111 Clara Barton St., Dansville, NY 14437 (585) 335-6001 (approximately 26 miles).

Where can you swim in the park?

Swimming is only permitted at the Harvey Swimming Pool on the North end of the park, near the Park Police station and destination playgrounds. Entry to the pool is free. Regular vehicle admission fees to enter the park still apply. Swimming in the Genesee River is prohibited.

Is the park open in the winter?

Yes, the park is open 6am-11pm. However, there are various seasonal winter closures to be aware of.  Please check for announcements on Letchworth State Park's website, use the NYS Parks Explorer App, or call (585) 493-3600 during regular business hours for the most up-to-date winter closures.

What winter activities are available?

Snowmobiling is allowed on designated trails only throughout the park, when open. There is a tubing hill located near Trailside Lodge. Patrons must bring their own inflatable tube. Cross country skiing and snowshoeing are also permitted on park property, as conditions allow.

Where can I find rules and regulations for the park?

Rules and regulations are posted at comfort stations, the Visitor Center, Camping Contact Station, and online.