Genesee Valley Greenway State Park

90 Miles of Trails, History & Outdoor Adventure in Western New York

Explore Western New York on the Genesee Valley Greenway State Park, a scenic 90-mile multi-use trail following historic canal and railroad routes from Rochester's Genesee Valley Park to the Village of Cuba in Allegany County. The trail passes through Monroe, Livingston, Wyoming, Allegany and Cattaraugus counties, offering a unique combination of outdoor recreation, history and natural scenery.

In Wyoming County, the Greenway provides an excellent way to experience the countryside surrounding Letchworth State Park, with sections winding through woodlands, wetlands, river and stream valleys, rolling farmland and dramatic gorges.

Follow a Historic Route

The Greenway follows the former route of the Genesee Valley Canal, which operated from 1840 to 1878, and the Pennsylvania Railroad Rochester Branch, which operated from 1882 to 1963. Today, the former transportation corridor has been transformed into a recreational trail connecting communities and natural areas across Western New York.

Much of the Greenway follows an old railroad bed, creating a relatively straight and level trail surface of cinders, gravel and mowed grass. This makes many sections particularly appealing for hikers, bicyclists and other outdoor recreationists looking for a quieter alternative to more heavily traveled trails.

A Trail for Every Season

The Genesee Valley Greenway offers opportunities for outdoor recreation throughout the year. Hike beneath a canopy of summer greenery, explore the colorful countryside during fall foliage season, or experience the peaceful landscape during the winter months.

Along the way, visitors can discover historic villages, forests, wetlands, farms, waterways and scenic overlooks, making the Greenway as much about the journey as the destination.

Connect to Other Trails

One of the Greenway's greatest advantages is its connection to other regional trail systems. The Genesee Valley Greenway connects with:

• Genesee River Trail
• Finger Lakes Trail
• Erie Canal Recreation Way
• Erie Cattaraugus Rail Trail
• Lehigh Valley Trail

These connections create opportunities for longer adventures and help link communities, parks and attractions throughout the region.

Explore Letchworth & Beyond

For visitors staying near Letchworth State Park, the Genesee Valley Greenway offers another way to explore the landscape beyond the park's boundaries. It is a great addition to a Wyoming County outdoor itinerary, particularly for visitors interested in hiking, biking, rail-trail history and scenic countryside.

Whether you're looking for a short local walk or planning a longer adventure along the Greenway, this historic trail offers plenty of opportunities to get outside and discover Western New York.

Highlights

• 90-mile multi-use trail
• Follows historic canal and railroad corridors
• Hiking and biking opportunities
• Scenic woodlands and wetlands
• River and stream valleys
• Rolling farmland
• Steep gorges
• Historic villages and cultural resources
• Connects with several regional trail systems
• Passes near Letchworth State Park
• Four-season outdoor recreation
• Open-space and conservation corridor

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Genesee Valley Greenway?

The Genesee Valley Greenway is approximately 90 miles long, stretching from Genesee Valley Park in Rochester to Cuba in Allegany County. Plans call for the Greenway to eventually extend farther south to Hinsdale.

Is the Genesee Valley Greenway good for hiking?

Yes. The Greenway is a public multi-use trail with many sections following relatively level former railroad beds, making it popular with hikers and other trail users.

Can you bike the Genesee Valley Greenway?

Yes. Bicycling is one of the recreational opportunities available along the multi-use trail. Surface conditions can vary by section, so visitors should plan accordingly.

Does the Genesee Valley Greenway go through Wyoming County?

Yes. The Greenway passes through Wyoming County as it travels between Rochester and Allegany County.

Is the Genesee Valley Greenway near Letchworth State Park?

Yes. The Greenway passes through the area surrounding Letchworth State Park, making it an excellent addition to an outdoor itinerary in Wyoming County.

What is the Genesee Valley Greenway made from?

Much of the trail follows an abandoned railroad bed with surfaces consisting of cinders, gravel and mowed grass. Conditions can vary along the trail.