Portage Trail #6 is a 1.6 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Hunt, New York that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and nature trips. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Bring hiking boots and a walking stick. There are 2 areas that are or can be somewhat muddy. The 1st muddy area is towards the end of the upper part, and the 2nd muddy area is as you are approaching the foot bridge.
Note: This trail is currently closed for maintenance. For more information, please see https://parks.ny.gov/parks/letchworth/details.aspx You can use the Parade Grounds Entrance (closed winters) off of Portage Street (East side of the Park) to access the trail. Continue on the Parade Grounds entrance road and pass the parade grounds on the left. There is a small parking area (maybe for about 10 cars) on the leftside of the road at the Portage Trail Trailhead which is about 3/10 of a mile from the parade grounds. If you are on the West Side of the park, there is a bridge that can be crossed to access the Portage Trail. From the west side, use the Castile Entrance but you must find the correct trail from that side.
Fun little hike. Perfect for families or couples & older hikers. Took 6 to 6a then returned same way. Muddy on 6a near the stairs, but worth passing thru the mud to get on the bridge. Could keep going to the other side of the park. We drove around & went into the south entrance to do all the "car hiking".
Nice, easy hike. Small change in elevation. Some mud when you get closer to the bridge. If you continue over the bridge and hike the other side you can get to middle falls (60 minutes) and upper falls (an additional 7 minutes). Beautiful colors!
So many, SO MANY BUGS! Do not attempt without bug spray. I seldom use bug spray on my long hikes, but these bugs are ravenous! The trail is kind of “meh” to be honest. If they ever get the footbridge repaired it would be worth it, but otherwise I would say skip this trail. Also steep drop offs on the gorge side. Fine for adults but I would not want to bring small children or dogs off leash on this trail.
This is the #6 Trail - Portage Trail at Letchworth State Park. Heading out from the trailhead, the trail is mostly downhill towards the river, so obviously, the return trip is mostly uphill. The trail is somewhat muddy at 2 different spots, one muddy spot was by the footbridge at the bottom, so appropriate footwear is necessary. The trail may be difficult for smaller dogs. There are some overlooks into the canyon during the upper part of the trail, and the views from which and from the footbridge make this a very good trail.