Some destinations are so amazing; I can’t believe that they are relatively unknown. Royalton Ravine is one of these places. It has just about everything you could ask for in a perfect destination. There is hidden history at this incredible park. There is a waterfall, suspension bridge (think Indiana Jones but without the death-defying height over a river full of crocodiles), ruins, and miles of hiking trails all neatly tucked away in this parcel of wildland in the town of Gasport.
To reach the trails, you need to walk to the very back of the park, past the pond, and you will notice a large trail map against the woods. This is the trailhead.
Waterfall
We first visited in the winter, so getting to the waterfall wasn’t as easy as it would be in the summer. However, it was worth the effort to get there. This waterfall is absolutely stunning. If you see the waterfall in the Summer, you can easily walk the creek to reach the waterfall. Your options are more limited in the winter as there isn’t a creekside trail. To reach the falls during the winter, we had to climb down the ravine side from the trail above. Not an easy feat or something for novice hikers. If you decide to try to hike down to the waterfall, make sure you are wearing microspikes. If you need a place to cool off in the summer, this waterfall has an excellent pool for swimming.
Suspension Bridge
This was one of my favorite parts of the park. Maybe it is my deep love of Indiana Jones, and I’ve always wanted to walk across a bridge like this. I’m not big on heights, so, fortunately, this wasn’t a real nail-biter for me. Although, it was cool feeling the bridge bounce and sway beneath us. The only thing that made this bridge slightly treacherous was the slush which made it slippery. In fact, there are several slippery spots that hikers will run across in the winter. A staircase leads down into the ravine that is super slippery when they are covered in melting snow. Fortunately, there are ropes strung to hang onto. Good boots are definitely needed for hiking here.
Ruins
There are ruins of a house in the park, not far from the waterfall, with historical significants. These ruins are the remains of the homestead of Belva Ann Lockwood, one of the first women to run for president (1884). She was also the first woman able to practice law before the supreme court. In addition, she was a staunch advocate for world peace and served on the nominating committee for the Nobel Peace Prize.
You can walk around the ruin, inside and out. However, the graffiti takes a little bit away from the entire ambiance of the place. If you like history, you can’t help but feel it here.
Hiking
Ice Cleats Traction Snow Grips for Hiking and Walking
Don’t let the ice and snow stop you from enjoying the breathtaking beauty of winter. These traction grips help outdoor adventurers explore icy terrain safely.
One thought that kept circling my mind was, “we really need to come back here in the summer and fall.” One look at this place is obvious: it is a stunning place to visit in just about any season. In addition to amazing trails, there is a beautiful pond and lots of picnic facilities.
We recently returned, in the Summer, and it was beautiful, although somewhat buggy. If you plan to visit, make sure you wear bug repellent. Also, there was a crazy amount of poison ivy alongside the trails. I would recommend that if you visit… don’t stray from the path.
Getting to Royalton Revine
Address: 4660 Gasport Rd, Gasport, NY 14067
Google Map Link
Other Places to Visit
Mill Pond Falls & Abandoned Mill
Viewing a waterfall really can’t get any easier than from your own vehicle. Which you can absolutely do at this waterfall. While you are there, check out the abandoned mill around the corner.
Winter Waterfalls
Waterfalls are great to visit all year round, but there is just something about winter waterfalls. The way the ice forms on the rocks, while water still finds itsway to flow through. There is magic to be witnessed in the winter. Here is a collection of our favorite winter waterfalls in New York State.
Golden Hill State Park
Golden Hill State Park may just be one of the most fantastic state parks on Lake Ontario. In fact, this park was named one of Reserve America’s Top Outdoor locations in 2005 and it has definitely earned this distinction. It is known for its incredible camping but there is even more to this unbelievable park. If the incredible view of the Lake doesn’t blow your socks off, the rest of the park surely will.
Have you hiked Royalton Ravine? What did you think of the park? Did you have a favorite part? Do you have a favorite park in New York State? We would love to hear from you. Please leave us a comment below.