Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Upper Falls
Upper Falls is a stunning waterfall located in Letchworth State Park, New York, often referred to as the 'Grand Canyon of the East.' It is one of three major waterfalls in the park, cascading beneath a picturesque railroad bridge.
The Setting
Upper Falls sits at 994 feet within Letchworth State Park, fed by the Genesee River, in the foothills of New York. The falls drop 70 feet.
Height: 70 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Middle Falls (107 ft) lies 0.4 miles to the northeast. Also nearby: Lower Falls (70 ft, 1.5 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Upper Falls is a short and easy walk from the parking area. It is well-maintained and suitable for most visitors, including families with children. The trail offers excellent views of the waterfall and the historic railroad bridge above it.
What to Expect
The falls drop 70 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Upper Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $10.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Upper Falls, as the water flow is typically at its peak. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a unique view of the frozen waterfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Stay on designated trails and viewing areas. The rocks near the waterfall can be slippery, and the currents are strong. Do not attempt to climb or swim near the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge GENESEE RIVER AT PORTAGEVILLE NY (1 km away).
Today
Strong
703 cfs
10/10Tomorrow
Strong
807 cfs
8/10Thu
Roaring
822 cfs
6/10Fri
Roaring
751 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
735 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
766 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
749 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — strong flow, mostly sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February to early May, peaking in April.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Hunt hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 182 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Only part of that is the waterfall, which is listed at 70 feet; the rest is the canyon carrying on downstream. Elevation at the pin is about 1,039 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 195 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 76 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,039 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 182 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Upper Falls is located within Letchworth State Park, which is accessible via multiple entrances. The closest entrance to Upper Falls is the Portageville Entrance on the southern end of the park. Follow park signage to the Upper Falls parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area near Upper Falls, which is a short walk from the viewing area. Parking is typically ample but may fill up during peak seasons.
Elevation
994 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.578952° N, -78.048618° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be wet or muddy near the waterfall. Bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Letchworth Farm Guesthouses
Hampton Inn Geneseo
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Warsaw
Conesus Lake Glamping With A View
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Kanakadea Recreation Area
23.3 miles away · 0 sites
This recreation area is part of Almond Lake
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls in Letchworth State Park, including Middle Falls and Lower Falls. The park also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitor center.
Wildlife
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, which are occasionally spotted in the area.
Cities near Upper Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Upper Falls
27 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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