The best walks and hikes in Livingston County

Yes, there are over 50 marked hiking routes in Livingston County. The trails range from easy lakeside paths to more challenging routes along the gorge rim in Letchworth State Park, catering to various skill levels.

The trails in this area are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning gorge views within Letchworth State Park and the serene, undeveloped shorelines around Hemlock and Canadice Lakes.

Absolutely. For a shorter, accessible walk, the Hiking loop from Lower Falls Parking Lot is a great option. It's a relatively flat 1.5-mile (2.5 km) trail within Letchworth State Park that offers rewarding views without a major time commitment.

Dogs are generally welcome on trails in New York State Parks, including Letchworth and Genesee Valley Greenway, provided they are on a leash no longer than six feet. Always check specific park regulations before you go and be prepared to clean up after your pet.

Letchworth State Park is famous for its three major waterfalls along the Genesee River. The Hiking loop from Middle Falls is a 3.2-mile (5.1 km) trail that provides excellent views of the park's iconic cascades. Stony Brook State Park, in the southern part of the county, is another fantastic destination for waterfall hikes.

Yes, there are many loop trails. A good moderate option is the Hiking loop from Castile, which is a 6.9-mile (11 km) circuit offering varied scenery and views within Letchworth State Park.

For a more demanding trek, consider the Humphrey's Overlook – Archery Field Overlook loop. This 10.7-mile (17.3 km) route involves significant elevation gain and provides extensive views of the Genesee River gorge.

The Genesee Valley Greenway is a 90-mile open-space corridor that passes through Livingston County. It follows the path of a former canal and railway, offering a relatively flat and accessible trail that is ideal for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing.

The difficulty varies widely. Of the 51 trails in the area, most are rated as easy (29) or moderate (18), with only a few (4) considered difficult. You can find everything from gentle walks along Conesus Lake to strenuous climbs along the gorge in Letchworth.

For a quieter experience with beautiful scenery, explore Hemlock-Canadice State Forest. The trails here, such as the South Hemlock Lake trail, run along the pristine, undeveloped shorelines of two of the Finger Lakes, offering a peaceful escape into nature.

Yes, Letchworth State Park typically charges a vehicle entrance fee during the peak season, from May to October. Hiking is free outside of these times or if you enter on foot or by bicycle. Fees are used for park maintenance and services.

The terrain is diverse. Expect dramatic gorges and steep paths in Letchworth State Park, often called the "Grand Canyon of the East." In contrast, trails in Hemlock-Canadice State Forest feature dense woodlands and serene lakeshores, while the Genesee Valley Greenway offers a flat, linear path.