LETCHWORTH STATE PARK


HISTORICAL HIGHLIGHTS
Overlooking the Middle Falls of the Genesee River, the Glen Iris Inn is surrounded by the natural beauty of Letchworth State Park, the "GRAND CANYON OF THE EAST". The real story of the Glen Iris Inn began in 1859 when Mr. William Pryor Letchworth first purchased the building and surrounding 1000 acres. Over the next fifty years, Mr. Letchworth would develop the Glen Iris and the grounds into the picturesque setting that is now the centerpiece of Letchworth State Park. Pictures of Letchworth State Park

In 1907, Mr. Letchworth deeded his estate to the State of New York. As part of an ongoing program, the interior of the Inn has been restored, and the exterior repainted in the colors of the 1890's. The landscape is currently under study so the grounds can be restored to their original beauty.
Today William Pryor Letchworth's home is open seven days a week for fine dining and overnight accommodations from Good Friday to the end of October. In addition to enjoying the spectacular view of the middle falls, guests will appreciate the Inn's library and Victorian Gift Shop. For more information call 716-493-2622.

Today, Letchworth State Park comprises 14,350 acres of scene magnificence along the Genesee River, just 35 miles south of Rochester, New York. The precipitous walls of the Genesee Gorge, the river winding below, the plunge and spray of dramatic waterfalls, and the lush forest all contribute to make the park one of the most notable examples of waterfall and gorge scenery in the eastern United States.
Within the park, the Genesee River roars over three major waterfalls, one of which is 107 feet high. Each year the river cuts deeper into the dramatic cliffs, some of which approach 600 feet in height. Letchworth may be entered in Mt. Morris, Perry, Castile or Portageville.

SENECA COUNCIL HOUSE

On a ridge behind the Glen Iris Inn stands a restored Seneca Indian Council House and the grave of Mary Jemison, a reminder of the region's turbulent history. The log structures located here were preserved by Mr. Letchworth as part of his ongoing endeavor to preserve the Seneca culture.

FACILITIES

Letchworth offers numerous leisure time pursuits. There are cabins, campsites, swimming pools, fishing areas, winter sport facilities, a Museum and hiking trails. Letchworth boasts two restaurants, fine dining at the Glen Iris Inn, and casual dining at the Lower Falls Restaurant. Snack bars are conveniently located throughout the park.

CAMPING

The park has 270 electric camp sites at the Highbanks Tent and Trailer Area. Amenities include bathroom/shower buildings, camp store, laundry, and recreation hall. The camping area is open mid-May to mid-October. A primitive group camping area is located in the Lower Falls area.

Letchworth has 82 cabins ranging from simple rustic one- room to wood paneled three-room. All cabins are supplied with stove, refrigerator, table and chairs. Cabins in area "C" are available year round.

RESERVATIONS

Cabins and Campsites are available by calling the New York State Camping and Cabin Reservation System at 1-800-456-2267. All cabins and campsites at Letchworth can be reserved however any unreserved sites are available on a first-come first-serve bases.

Online Reservations can be made at:
RESERVE AMERICA

PARK ACTIVITIES

Letchworth offers nature, history and performing arts programs, guided walks and tours, summer lecture series, camper recreation programs, whitewater rafting and kayaking, hot air ballooning and horseback rides. Special events include Stone Tool Technology Show, Letchworth Arts and Crafts Show. Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snow tubing.

PERSONAL REVIEW

Bring your best walking-shoes when visiting Letchworth State Park!

This is one magnificent park! Noted as the "Grand Canyon of the East", it lives up to its name. The mighty Genesee River roars through the property, and with it, the best scenery imaginable.

With Letchworth Park's History, it is an interesting place to tour, picnic, and spend the day.

The campground located in the north end of the park is clean, and boasts spacious camp sites. The rustic cabins, with many open all year, are great for weekend escapes.

I would definately recommend this park for any camper, tourist, or just a Sunday picnic. There is the Glenn Iris Inn for fine dining, or small banquet gatherings as well.





Information, other than Persnal Review, quoted from the NY State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation brochure.

Pictures and graphics ©Candace