Watkins Glen State Park is in the Finger Lakes Region of New York, about 90 miles southwest of Syracuse. It is one of New York’s most popular state parks for a reason. Known for its natural beauty, the centerpiece of the park features a series of waterfalls and gorges that are sure to amaze anyone. Explore this awe-inspiring park and you will not be disappointed.
Trails
The park has three trails, open mid-May to early November, to climb or descend the gorge. Hours are sunrise to sunset and the entrance fee is $8 per car. The Southern Rim and Indian Trails run along the tree-lined rim of the gorge. But the crown jewel of the park is the Gorge Trail that runs over, under and along the gorge. An almost two-mile hike will take you past the 19 waterfalls and over 800 stone stairs. The trails connect to the Finger Lakes Trail system, which includes 800 miles of trails within New York state.
Tips
• Spring and Fall are the best times of year to visit, with a higher flow in the waterfalls and beautiful foliage. The summer months can be very busy. Plan to go on a weekday or first thing in the morning to avoid the heaviest crowds.
• The park has comfortable tent and trailer camping sites, as well as picnic facilities, food, playground, gift shop, and even a swimming pool.
• The Gorge Trail tends to be wet and cool year-round. Bring a rain jacket and shoes that can get wet or muddy.
• If the two-mile hike is too much for you, there are trail shuttles available to take you up and down the gorge. Service runs from 9 am to 6 pm and is $5 per person each way.
BONUS: The Finger Lakes region is also the largest and most celebrated wine producing region of the Eastern United States. All of the wineries on the Keuka Lake Wine Trail are open seven days a week from June through November. The trail can guide you through the region’s wine culture and give you a great vantage point for the area’s beautiful scenery.
