Letchworth is the Best State Park
Photo provided by Nicholas Deya
Livingston County is known for a variety of attractions, including beautiful valleys, historical monuments, SUNY Geneseo, and maybe the most nationally recognized, Letchworth State Park.
Considered the best state park in the country by USA Today, Letchworth is worth the visit for any student, resident, or traveler in the area. With busses conveniently picking and dropping off students from campus every Saturday, transportation is more than accessible.
Photo provided by Nicholas Deya
One of the most impressive aspects of the park is the large Mt. Morris Dam, which controls the flow of the Genesee River. The dam is 790 feet tall and controls millions of gallons of water. One of the most frequent inhabitants of the dam’s walls are turkey vultures which soar through the open sky.
Along with the magnificent man-made marvels are the role of nature in the beauty of the park. Titled the Grand Canyon of the East, the jaw dropping views are worth spending an entire day admiring. The ability to see miles on end without flying is unfamiliar to humans, but this park provides the exception. As a visitor walks along the trails there is plenty to admire, and with the leaf change this time of year, now is the perfect time to visit.
For those who enjoy history, the monument honoring the civil war soldiers of the area is worth a quick visit. The simple obelisk monument sits on a grass patch between the roads and is a nice asset that compliments the park’s history. The monument honors the New York Dragoons, and ties nationally recognized history to the local area.
Photo provided by Nicholas Deya
Towards the other end of the park, which is opposite of the dam, there are several waterfalls. The waterfalls are classified as the Upper, Middle, and Lower falls. These waterfalls are amazing, with each having its own unique characteristics. Lower falls is the shortest of the three, being only 55 feet tall. The Upper falls are 71 feet tall. Middle Falls is 107 feet tall, and has the roar of Niagara, proving to be the most impressive of the three. Beside the Middle Falls is the Glenn Iris Inn, which is the former home of William Pryor Letchworth. The building now houses a gift shop and restaurant. The crashing water mixed with rising mist provides for a perfect photo session.
It seems there is no dull moment when visiting Letchworth, though be mindful when visiting as there have been multiple incidental deaths in the park’s history. Be aware when going up and down stairs and stay clear of steep edges. There have been deaths associated with people going into restricted areas, so in most cases, if it looks treacherous, chances are it is.
While there are countless reasons why someone should visit Letchworth State Park, a true opinion can only be formed once a visit has taken place. While many states may brag about their state parks, New York State and Livingston/Wyoming county are able to gloat about the fact they have what is considered the best state park in the entire United States.