Canals, Railroads & Waterfalls!

hike with us on one of the most storied and modified trails in letchworth state park

Beautiful and surprising 5 mile hike with original canal lock views and gully waterfalls along an abandon railbed.

If you’ve been to the “busy” side of Letchworth, let us take you to the “quiet” side to show you our favorite hike in the park. This mostly flat five mile hike will take us along an old canal with lock ruins, cascading gullies and waterways, and ending at the Letchworth gorge.

Difficulty: This is rated moderate - easy trail but moderate in length.

Length: 8 miles, out and back.

Estimated Time: 4 Hours, but may be longer because of hiker speed, trail conditions or unexpected event.

Private Tours: Private tours are available. Call us for availability.

Refund/Cancellation policy: This hike is rain or shine. For all day hikes you may cancel up to twenty four (24) hours before start time for a full refund. If hike is canceled by Trail Otter due to adverse weather conditions, you will have the option to reschedule or a full refund.

Where to meet: We ask that you meet us at the Oakfield Canal Locks parking lot on Rt. 436 in Nunda. This location is on the north side of Rt. 436, just outside the village of Nunda. Please meet twenty minutes before your scheduled hike to ensure liability forms are complete and you are prepared for the hike.

What to bring/wear: Depending on the weather, bring seasonally appropriate clothing. Avoid cotton, especially socks - wool or synthetic socks are best. Bring a change of footwear and socks for your car ride home just in case it is wet or muddy. Bring water for hydration. If you are accustomed to using hiking poles for balance, they will work great for this hike.

Summer & Early Fall: we highly recommend long pants, as there are plants that may make you very itchy.

Winter & Early Spring: ice and snow melt much slower in the gorge. Microspikes or similar products and/or snowshoes may be required. We will advise you conditions and requirements before your cold weather adventure.

Bugs: Mosquitoes will be present in the spring/summer/fall so any deet product works best but use anything you’re comfortable with on your body. Ticks are now everywhere in the Genesee Valley and can be active any time of year. Use permethrin on your boots and deet on your body for the best protection.

COVID Requirement: Masks required for unvaccinated participants.

Dogs: We love ‘em, but unfortunately they are not allowed on this hike because of mountain bike traffic.