Visiting Letchworth State Park for leaf-peeping season is a must when autumn arrives in Livingston County. And when you visit, don’t forget to explore the one-of-a-kind, inclusive experiences on the Autism Nature Trail.
Fall is the perfect time of year to explore the forests, trails, and waterfalls of Livingston County, including at the famed Letchworth State Park. Even if you don’t consider yourself much of an outdoorsy traveler, the fall foliage and accessible adventures of the “Grand Canyon of the East” can’t be missed. The season’s numerous leaf-peeping opportunities provide an excellent way to appreciate the great outdoors without any strenuous hiking, and the park’s unique Autism Nature Trail (ANT) makes exploring the park’s natural features more inclusive and inviting. Intrigued? Here’s what you need to know.
The Autism Nature Trail (commonly known as the ANT) at Letchworth State Park welcomes everyone but takes considerable care to cater to those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and differing levels of abilities. The trail is an easy, non-strenuous, one-mile-long journey through the woods of one of Western New York’s most popular state parks. As an ADA-compliant trail surfaced with stone dust, the Autumn Nature Trail is suitable for most wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers.
As you traverse the trail, which starts just a short distance from the parking lot near the Humphrey Nature Center, you’ll encounter tons of activity stations that engage your senses and help you experience the natural world around you in new ways. For example, the Sensory Station features a collection of leaves, moss, fossils, and other items for you to touch, smell, and otherwise explore.
Stop at the Music Circle which features nature-inspired musical instruments that beckon for a fun and impromptu jam session. Other spots are quieter and welcome visitors for moments of peaceful observation, such as Reflection Knoll and Sunshine Slope. Finally, the last stop on the Autism Nature Trail is the Celebration Station, where visitors are invited to celebrate their experience through personal writings and drawings.
Be sure to check out the Autism Nature Trail’s calendar of events before you arrive. Regular, family-friendly programming is provided by trained staff from Camp Puzzle Peace — a nonprofit organization that aims to provide enriching experiences to families with members with Autism Spectrum Disorder — and occurs September through October. Otherwise, be sure to enjoy the full splendor of fall foliage in LivCo. Letchworth State Park offers dramatic views, from towering waterfalls to deep gorges, and rambling forests to rushing rivers that you won’t want to miss.
CELEBRATE NEW YORK STATE PARK’S 100TH BIRTHDAY
If the Autism Nature Trail wasn’t reason enough to visit Letchworth State Park, this year, the whole of New York State is celebrating 100 years of state parks. As such, there are plenty of family-friendly, fun activities all year long. If you plan on seeing more than one state park during your travels, you can participate in the New York State Parks Centennial Challenge, which lists 100 activities you can enjoy throughout New York State this year. Don’t worry, you don’t have to complete all 100 in order to win cool prizes. Complete 24, and you’ll get a prize and be entered to win a three-year Empire Pass, which grants you entry to New York state parks.
WANT TO TRY LEAF-PEEPING WITH A BIT MORE THRILL? GET READY FOR A SPLASHY AUTUMN ADVENTURE
If you want to get up close and personal with the natural beauty of Letchworth State Park, join Adventure Calls Outfitters for a one-of-a-kind raft trip through the gorge as the fall colors start to emerge before your eyes! Grab tickets for the Fall Photography Raft Trip in the Gorge, happening on September 28th. This is your opportunity to get some amazing shots from a new perspective rafting from Lee's Landing to St. Helena's, stopping at the most scenic locations along the way. Whether you have a point-and-shoot or a top-of-the-line pro camera, all are welcome.
Looking for a longer adventure? On October 12th, Adventure Calls Outfitters is hosting a Fall Foliage Family Overnight in the Gorge, a fun opportunity for some family bonding time! On this trip, you'll get to spend a weekend in Letchworth State Park, rafting down the river twice, camping in a tent, and enjoying time around the campfire with family.