Off The Trails: A Hiker's Guide to the Outdoors

Upstate New York has a wide array of hiking trails, famous state parks and tourist attractions. Watkins Glen State Park is one of the most popular attractions in the area. Like much of the surrounding areas, the park was formed by receding glaciers at the end of the last ice age. Everything from the rock formations to winding river and powerful waterfalls are worth checking out.

Located south of Seneca Lake, the 778- acre parks main attraction is the gorge carved out by Glen Creek enroute to Seneca Lake. In the course of about 2 miles, Glen Creek will wind its way past 200ft cliffs and descend about 400ft, creating a total of 19 waterfalls along the way, the most popular being Rainbow Falls.

The gorge trail is the most popular trail in the park. Connecting the upper and lower lots, the ~2 mile stone trail traverses the side of the gorge, giving you up close access to nearly every waterfall. The stone trail follows the river, with tall cliffs on one side, and a stone barrier separating you and the river on the other side. There are lots of steps and the stone can become slippery as water from the falls can soak the trail. Just when you think you reach the end, you will see another set of steps.

Toward the end of the trail (if you start at the lower lot), you will need to ascend over 100 steps to the upper parking lot, its exhausting, but the reward of finishing is superb. Keep in mind, this trail is out and back; I would recommend bringing two cars and parking one in each lot. Meaning you can walk the trail and then drive back to your vehicle. If not, plan on a crowded return hike along the same pathway.

Overall, the hike is a perfect for those seeking a moderate adventure with a group of friends. However, it can be challenging for those who don’t have experience hiking with elevation changes or with small kids. Spending any amount of time in the Watkins Glen area is special. If you decide to visit the park, be sure to check out Glen Mountain House Snacks & Souvenirs, located inside the park at the upper lot. It’s a great way to refresh after hiking the gorge trail. The town of Watkins Glen is also spectacular, with many quaint shops and restaurants just a stones throw from the lower lot entrance. If you are ever in the area, make Watkins Glen a stop on your itinerary, the experience will be unforgettable!

Parking: 1009 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891 (Lower Lot), 3308, NY-409, Dix, NY, 14891 (Upper Lot).

AllTrails:https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/new-york/watkins-glen-state-park