The 'Grand Canyon of the East' is a road trip from Toronto and it's a breathtaking fall gem
No plane ticket needed.
The 'Grand Canyon of the East.'
There's no need to travel all the way to Arizona to enjoy sweeping canyon views. This breathtaking park has major Grand Canyon vibes, and it's just a road trip away from Toronto.
With towering cliffs, rushing waterfalls, and more, it's a gorgeous spot for a fall road trip, and it's even more beautiful during the fall.
Letchworth State Park, located about 3 hours from Toronto in New York State, boasts some majestic fall scenery.
The park is home to a massive gorge with rushing waterfalls and 66 miles of picturesque trails, earning it the nickname the "Grand Canyon of the East."
As the crisp autumn air sets in, the forests blanketing the gorge burst into vibrant hues of red and gold, making the park look like something off a fall postcard.
Flowing through the gorge, the Genesee River has carved out three dramatic waterfalls, along with seasonal cascades that emerge at different times of the year.
The waterfalls, called Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls, are located along the epic Gorge Trail. At Upper Falls, a railway crossing spans the rushing water, while Middle Falls stands as the park's tallest waterfall, and Lower Falls can be admired from a charming footbridge.
The Gorge Trail stretches for 15 miles round-trip and is home to some jaw-dropping panoramic views of the fall colours.
Another spot to visit if you're looking for gorgeous autumn scenery is Hogsback Overlook, which gazes over the vibrant colours surrounding the Genesee River.
Some of the most magical times to visit the park are in the early mornings, when the gorge is wrapped in mist, or during golden hour, when the setting sun makes the fall colours glow.
During your visit, you can stop by the Humphrey Nature Center, which has interactive exhibits about the park's geology and ecology. Or, head to the William Pryor Letchworth Museum, where you can learn about the park's founder and the history of the Genesee Valley.
If you're feeling extra adventurous, you can book a hot air balloon ride, which takes you over the incredible fall dreamland.
With beautiful fall colours and breathtaking views, this park near Toronto is a magical place for an autumn road trip.
Letchworth State Park
Price: $10 USD per vehicle entrance fee
Address: 1 Letchworth State Park, Castile, NY
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.