Letchworth State Park Rattlesnake Hill Fire Tower Road

This forgotten fire tower access road climbs 600 feet in just over a mile to reach the skeletal remains of Rattlesnake Hill fire tower, perched on the eastern rim of Letchworth’s Grand Canyon. The rutted dirt track starts innocuously near the Castile entrance but quickly turns nasty—deep erosion gullies, loose shale, and grades that’ll test your clutch. At the summit, rusted tower remnants frame views across the Genesee River Gorge that rival anything in the park’s developed areas.

Difficult rating due to steep grades and technical rock sections that demand 4WD low range and aggressive tires. Not for stock vehicles or nervous drivers—several spots require precise wheel placement to avoid body damage. Open year-round but best April through November when leaves are off trees for maximum visibility. No permits needed within state park boundaries. No camping allowed, but this makes a solid day trip from nearby campgrounds. Worth it for the solitude and unfiltered gorge views without the tourist buses.