Letchworth State Park/Portageville Entrance
For a 2–3 hour loop covering Letchworth’s top overlooks, here’s a simple suggested itinerary starting from the Portageville (Castile) entrance:
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Begin at the Portageville Entrance: Pick up a park map here.
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Drive or walk north to Upper Falls: There’s a parking lot with a short, paved path leading to a spectacular view of the Upper Falls and the iconic railroad bridge overhead.
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Continue on foot or by car to Inspiration Point: Walk (about 0.5 miles one way) along the rim, or drive and park nearby for a panoramic view of Middle and Upper Falls framed by historic scenery.
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Middle Falls Overlook: This is the heart of the park—a short distance from Inspiration Point with impressive close-up waterfall views, open lawns, and the Glen Iris Inn.
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(Optional, time permitting) Lower Falls Trail: If you have extra time and energy, drive to the Lower Falls area and take the stairway down for a unique perspective of the gorge. (Note: The walk back up is strenuous.)
Total time: About 2–3 hours at a leisurely pace, including time at overlooks, with moderate walking. All overlooks are accessible by car with minimal walking, and trails between overlooks are well-marked and mostly paved.
Tips:
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Bring a camera for sunset-light photos (late afternoon is ideal).
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Public restrooms and picnic tables are available at all major stops.
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The area is kid- and pet-friendly, and most sites are accessible.