Trip ideas while visiting The Finger Lakes in New York
Watkins Glen is a highly popular state park in the region due to its stunning natural features, including 19 waterfalls and scenic trails. The Gorge Trail, which is a looped path spanning 2 miles, offers a breathtaking experience as it takes you over and under the falls, allowing you to feel the refreshing spray of the Cavern Cascade. If you’re not up for hiking the long slope, there’s a shuttle service available that will take you to the top of the trail. It’s important to note that the Gorge Trail is only open from late May until mid-October, so plan your visit accordingly.
From mid-May to mid-October, you have the opportunity to go camping at the park. There are a total of 305 campsites available, and they come with convenient amenities such as restrooms, showers, dumping stations, and even firewood for purchase. You can easily make reservations either online or through the call center. If you haven’t made any plans in advance, don’t worry! The New York State Park Campgrounds allow same-day reservations until 3 p.m. on the day of your arrival.
When you decide to camp or visit for the day, you’ll also have access to the park’s fantastic Olympic-size swimming pool. It’s a great way to cool off and have some fun under the sun. Additionally, the park provides picnic facilities if you want to enjoy a delightful outdoor meal with your family and friends.
If fishing is your thing, you’re in luck! Just a short distance away, you can find excellent fishing spots at Seneca Lake or Catherine Creek. Catherine Creek is particularly famous for its spring run of rainbow trout, so it’s definitely worth checking out.