Middle Falls at Letchworth

Middle Falls is the crown jewel of Letchworth State Park, plunging 107 feet over a wide horseshoe-shaped ledge of Devonian-era shale and sandstone into the Genesee River gorge. The tallest of Letchworth's three major waterfalls, Middle Falls sits in the heart of what is known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," where the gorge walls rise up to 550 feet and narrow to just 400 feet across. The falls are especially dramatic in spring when snowmelt turns the Genesee into a roaring torrent of amber-tinted water.

The best views of Middle Falls are from the Inspiration Point overlook on the west rim, accessible via a short paved walk from the parking area near the historic Glen Iris Inn. The 7-mile Gorge Trail connects all three major falls — Lower, Middle, and Upper — running along the canyon rim with numerous overlooks. The most rewarding section is the 4.8-mile round trip between Lower Falls and Upper Falls, which captures all three waterfalls and the most dramatic gorge scenery.

Fall foliage season in early to mid-October is arguably the best time to visit, when the hardwood forest blanketing the gorge walls erupts in brilliant oranges, reds, and golds. The park offers cabin rentals, campgrounds, swimming, and hot air balloon rides. Middle Falls is dramatically lit at night during certain events throughout the year.