Cruising down through New York State from Buffalo towards Pennsylvania and Washington DC, I got to visit some nice natural spots, but the only hike I did was in the wonderful Watkins Glen State Park climbing up the Finger Lakes. Of all the attractions in the area this was highlighted as a must see by the very helpful AAA Buffalo branch and proved a very easy and rewarding hike.
It’s basically a very narrow gorge with a river flowing downhill in a series of waterfalls.
Here’s the intro from the official website :
A renowned location where "Mother Nature meets Main Street," the main entrance to the park is located in downtown Watkins Glen on the village’s main street – Franklin St/State Route 14. Within a two mile hike of approximately 800 stone steps, visitors will feel the mist of 19 waterfalls, while traveling under bridges and stone tunnels alike. They will also experience several sights of water cascading over 200-foot cliffs and have their breath taken away from the awe-inspiring beauty that the glaciers carved so long ago.
The Gorge Trail is open from approximately mid-May until the beginning of November. In addition to the main gorge trail, there are also outer rim trails that are available for use year-round, which overlook the gorge. The Watkins Glen State Park also includes tent and trailer camping sites, picnic facilities, a playground, an Olympic-size pool, guided tours in the summer and easy access to Village of Watkins Glen. Surrounding attractions also offer fishing, shopping, boating, racing, dining, accommodations options and more!
Let’s take a walk upstream…
This, here , is the main entrance to the park…
Aside from this hike, it’s a huge national park and there’s alot to see. I was on tight schedule, so didn’t get to explore as much as I would have wanted to, but it’s definitely a recommended spot, if you’re in the area.
More on the park:
- NEW YORK’S FINGER LAKES: Watkins Glen offers a mix of fun
- A Visit to Watkins Glen
- Watkins Glen State Park
- The Secret Lost World of New York’s Finger Lakes
- Beautiful Waterfalls of Watkins Glen State Park
You had a great trip. I enjoy reading this entry. Thanks Fili for a nice recommendation for hiking. What I can say is gorgeous beauty and worth hike
Thanks @MaiHanoi, that’s nice to hear.