Total Solar Eclipse at Letchworth State Park
On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will put much of New York State in twilight-like totality, including Letchworth State Park starting at about 3:20pm. While this locally rare natural phenomenon will occur across the state and country, many people are already planning to view the eclipse at Letchworth State Park due to its well-known natural beauty. Here’s what you need to know:
- As usual for early April, there will be no vehicle use fee to enter the park on the day of the eclipse.
- No camping will be available. Limited cabin offerings are already booked. Please find other local accommodations.
- The best and most available eclipse viewing will be in the Highbanks Recreation Area at the north end of the park, near the swimming pool.
- There will be very limited parking in the area of the large river waterfalls at the south end of the park. This area is expected to reach parking capacity and close to vehicle traffic several hours before the eclipse begins. Overflow traffic will be redirected to the Highbanks Recreation Area.
- Please plan at least one backup location in the park to view the eclipse. Park maps are available and downloadable on our website, parks.ny.gov/parks/Letchworth.
- Bring your own ISO certified eclipse glasses (never use sunglasses to view an eclipse). Glasses are available to purchase here.
- Heavy vehicle traffic and long lines are likely on the day of the eclipse, for both arrival and departure from viewing sites.
- Restrooms will be available on site, but long lines are possible.
- Prepare to follow special traffic directions from our staff.
- Parking is allowed in paved parking spaces only. No roadside parking.
New York State Parks Police officers and New York State Parks rangers will be on site alongside education staff. In a medical or public safety emergency, dial 911. Please check their social media, @letchworthstatepark on Facebook and Instagram, their website, parks.ny.gov/parks/letchworth, or the NYS Parks Explorer app for park information and alerts. If you have more questions, please call the Visitor Center at (585) 493-3600.
