There are not many people in this day and age who aren't familiar with J. R. R. Tolkien's famous trilogy, Lord of the Rings. Most of Tolkien's well-known storyline takes place in the magical setting of Middle Earth, a fictional fantasy world that's covered in vibrant green landscapes and mythical wonders. If the idea of not being able to visit such a whimsical place like this has always broken your heart, there is no need to get upset! Panama Rocks Scenic Park is one scenic park in New York that is everything you need to get away from it all.
A gem of Chautauqua County, in the small village of Panama you can find one of New York's most beautiful scenic parks.
Operating since 1885, Panama Rocks Scenic Park is one of the best outdoor attractions you'll find out in this area of New York.
Panama Rocks Scenic Park features towering rock formations and enchanting passageways.
From deep crevices to cavernous dens, there's so much to see and explore in this extraordinary scenic park. The rock formations in the park date back to 300 million years ago, reaching upwards of 60-feet tall!
A one-mile-long hiking trail surrounds the towering rock formations, an easy hike for visitors of all ages.
Not only does the scenic park feature a one-mile long trail that leads you to fascinating places, off-trail exploring is also allowed here! You'll be able to make your way through passageways and explore crevices that look like places from out of this world. The trail is great for visitors of all ages but does feature moderate inclines and pathways that will take you over the many roots you'll find exposed throughout the park.
Open daily from May until October, the park features a variation of trees that create a magical scene no matter what season you visit.
From black cherry and elm to red maple and sugar maple trees, the park is an especially amazing place to enjoy fall foliage. Panama Rocks is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you've never been here or have yet to take your annual visit, be sure you experience New York's very own Middle Earth some time soon.
Pricing: General Admission: $10.00, Children Ages 6-12: $7.00, Children under 5: FREE
Wondering if you're eligible for a discount? All Seniors (65+), Veterans, and Military can get into Panama Rocks for just $9.00.
Covered in vibrant ferns and mosses, like always when exploring any one of our parks, you'll want to be respectful of the delicate features surrounding you.
One of the main reasons that this park is so eye-catching and unique is that the mosses and ferns create a lush scenery amongst such rough formations. To enjoy the perfect day at this park all you'll need to do is respect Mother Nature (AKA use your common sense) and wear your best pair of sneakers or hiking boots! It's as simple as that.
How to get here: 11 Rock Hill Road Panama, NY 14767
Can't get enough of one of the most beautiful parks in NY? Then watch this extraordinary footage of Panama Rocks Scenic Park, captured by David Niedbala on YouTube!
There are so many caves and crevices to explore all around our state! If you enjoyed Panama Rocks Scenic Park then you'll absolutely love this massive cave in New York that will bring out the explorer in you! It is another one of the most beautiful places in New York.
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-york/nature-eco-tour-ny/
Another of the best parks in New York is Watkins Glen State Park. See why we love it so much in this quick video. Be sure to grab some trail maps from AllTrails+ before you go:
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