The Finger Lakes is a beautiful destination in the heart of upstate New York. It includes a group of 11 long, narrow lakes that, from an aerial view, look like fingers. This area is brimming with opportunities to get outdoors. There are breathtaking waterfalls, serene lakes, huge gorges and rolling hills of forests and farmland. Adorable towns are scattered throughout the area, each one more charming than the next. I was particularly blown away with the astonishing scenery and raging waterfalls that are surprisingly accessible. If it’s not already, the Finger Lakes should be on your list for an outdoorsy adventure destination.
I spent a long weekend in the Watkins Glen/ Ithaca area. I did so much exploring and hiking, but I didn’t even scratch the surface of the amount of things there are to do here. I’m already dying to go back and explore other lakes, parks and towns. Keep reading for a more information on planning a trip to the Finger Lakes.
Getting There
The Finger Lakes region is located in upstate New York, about 4 hours away from New York City. It’s also about 4 hours from Philadelphia, Baltimore and about 5 hours from DC and Cleveland. Depending on the area you want to visit, the Finger Lakes is easy to get to from the majority of the northeast and mid-Atlantic.
There are three airports near the Finger Lakes in Rochester, Syracuse and Horseheads. There are also two train stations in Syracuse and Rochester.
Things to do in the Finger Lakes
Water Sports
One of the best ways to experience the Finger Lakes is to get into them! I had the pleasure of renting kayaks from Seneca Lake Kayaks in Watkins Glen. I got there early and it was easy to get out on the water. They have the option of kayaks or SUPs. Paddling around Seneca Lake, you can see lots of wildlife on the shore.
Hiking
I was blown away at the amount of hiking there is in the Finger Lakes. There are so many parks and trails that I could never visit them all if I tried. As I hiked, I talked to other hikers that recommended other trails in the area. I kept a list of the parks I need to see on my next visit. There are short hikes, long hikes, flat ones and intense elevation gains. Some trails are located in town, which was a new one for me. There is really something for everyone.
Swimming
If you want to get in the water, look no further than the Finger Lakes. You can find accessible beaches on each lake. Since I spent the day on Seneca Lake, I went swimming at Watkins Glen Beach at Clute Park. You can also take a dip in Cayuga Lake at TaughannockFalls State Park. Before you go, be sure to check for any hazardous conditions and weather. The beaches may close for various reasons.
Exploring the Towns
I had so much fun exploring the towns in the Finger Lakes. In my long weekend, I got to visit Ithaca, Watkins Glen and Corning. The entire region has small towns scattered throughout. Some are larger than others, but they are all so charming.
Camping
With the Finger Lakes being an outdoor lover’s destination, there are lots of opportunities for camping. There are tent campgrounds inside of the many state parks. There are RV parks and a KOA just outside of Watkins Glen.
My Favorite Parks
Watkins Glen State Park
I just about lost my mind when I saw Watkins Glen for the first time. Its so beautiful, so stunning and so impressive. Watkins Glen State Park is a huge gorge with waterfalls, steep walls and a stream running through the middle. The main trail follows along the stream through the entire gorge. The views are astounding. You won’t want to miss this one.
Taughannock Falls State Park
This park is centered around the stunning waterfall of the same name. Taughannock Falls (pronounced like organic) is the tallest free-falling waterfall east of the Mississippi. You can see the falls from different viewpoints. Drive to the Visitor Center to see the falls from the overlook. You can also drive to the entrance by the lake and hike into the gorge to get an up close look at the falls.
Buttermilk Falls State Park
As I was hiking in the Finger Lakes, someone mentioned that I should check out Buttermilk Falls. This park is located in Ithaca, so its very easy to find. You can hike the rim trail around the gorge to see the amazing waterfall. The trail is gorgeous with steps leading up to the falls. There is also a swimming hole at the base of the falls where you can take a dip after your hike. This is definitely the choice for a summer day.
Robert Treman State Park
This park was also recommended to me while I was hiking in the area. In true FLX fashion, this park is centered around a huge waterfall. The path to the falls is short, at around .25 miles. There is a swimming hole at the base of the falls that seems to be very popular among the little ones. With the easy access and huge swimming area, this park is the choice for families.
Where to Stay
Watkins Glen
The town of Watkins Glen is at the southern tip of Seneca Lake. This adorable town has a combo of rustic charm and sophisticated appeal. There are so many delicious restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops. You can spend the day on the lake or walk down main street. Stay in Watkins Glen if you want to hike Watkins Glen State Park early in the morning.
Ithaca
Ithaca is a college town in the heart of the Finger Lakes. With Cornell University, Ithaca College and other schools in town, this place is hopping during the school year. I actually visited in Summer, so it felt like a ghost town. Ithaca Commons is filled with fantastic restaurants, shops and cafes. Stay here if you love the college town feel.
Corning
I stopped in Corning for lunch on my way home. This town is one of the southernmost towns in the Finger Lakes. Its best known for the astonishingly huge Museum of Glass. Walking down Main street will give you that classic small town feel. There are shops, cafes and restaurants to enjoy. Stay here if you love the small town feel and want to visit the Museum of Glass.
Is Finger Lakes worth seeing?
I can without a doubt say that, yes! The Finger Lakes are an amazing destination to visit. It really has something for everyone, especially the outdoorsy travelers. From the views, the trails and the waterfalls, this place will take your breath away.
Leave a Reply