There’s no doubt that New York is home is some truly amazing natural wonders, from a 35-foot-tall waterfall with an “eternal flame” to caverns you can explore 150 feet underground. But one that always truly astounds us — because it feels like it’s out of another country (if not another world…) — is Watkins Glen State Park.
Located at the bottom of Seneca Lake, New York’s largest of the 11 Finger Lakes, Watkins Glen is a waterfall-filled wonderland. Read on for everything to know about it — and our guide and suggestions for your full visit there!
What is Watkins Glen State Park?
Watkins Glen itself is an amazing natural phenomenon that was created about 12,000 years ago by glacial melting in the Finger Lakes region of New York State. The melting glaciers created valleys that would become the lakes themselves, while the streams from the glaciers became waterfalls and then eroded backwards to form the giant gorge that was named Watkins Glen. Now the site and surrounding land is a NY State Park, one of the most beloved in the area. Watkins Glen also refers to the town’s name.
The gorge has a stream that flows down 400 feet across two miles, creating 19 awe-inspiring waterfalls. The main trail path meanders through caverns and over and under the amazing waterfalls, making for a truly incredible hike.
How far is it from NYC?
Watkins Glen is about 4.5 hours from NYC and does require a car/driving, but it’s worth it, we promise! The gorge and waterfalls are truly one-of-a-kind and you can’t see anything like it closer to NYC (it’s even quite unique for the East Coast in general).
What to do in Watkins Glen, NY
The main activity is, of course, hiking to the beautiful waterfalls! There are multiple options depending on your abilities/physical accumen and desired views and there are three main trails: the Gorge Trail, the North Rim Trail, and the South Rim Trail. You can see the main trail map on NYParks.Gov. Whichever day you visit, plan to get there early! If you can do it on a weekday even better, because it is a visitor destination and even the entrance to the park can develop lines. Entrance costs $10 per vehicle.
Watkins Glen is also in Finger Lakes region of New York, which is basically like our state’s own “wine country.” So there are also plenty of wineries, breweries, and restaurants with lake views to enjoy.
Here are our personal recommendations:
- Lakewood Vineyards (4024 NY-14, Watkins Glen) was one of our favorite wineries — it had a ton of lush outdoor space, beautiful views of the lake, and some really nice refreshing wine options for summer. And you can do a tasting for only $5!
- We also loved Mangus Ridge (6148 NY-14, Rock Stream) — the beautiful historic building looks like you’ve been whisked away to the French countryside, and the garden in the back is so charming.
- Glen Dairy Bar (33 S Franklin St, Watkins Glen) is a must for ice cream; everything’s homemade and they have tons of different flavors of soft serve so you can even get a swirl that also looks pretty.
- The Tiki Bar at the Anchor Inn Marina (3425 Salt Point Rd, Watkins Glen) is on Seneca Lake itself and when we went it was actually not too crowded! Feels like a little island getaway.
- Grist Iron Brewing Company (4880 NY-414, Burdett) is great for some local brews and bites.
- On the way back to NYC, stop at the Corning Museum of Glass (1 Museum Way, Corning, NY) for such a unique museum experience — they go through the entire history and art of glass-making!
Also famous in the area is Watkins Glen International, a historic raceway that established racing in America post-WWII and now hosts the NASCAR Cup and Xfinity Series. There are races most weekends so be sure to check it out!
Where to stay
When I stayed I camped within the State Park, which really helped us get the full nature experience. If interested, you can make campsite reservations at Reserve America.
Of course, if you like being in nature just for the day instead of overnight, there are plenty of indoor stay options.
According to a combination of Google Reviews and TikTok recs some good options are: Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, The Hotel Laurel at Seneca Lake, and the Lodge at Grist Iron Brewing (we can vouch for the brewery itself above!).
When is the best time to visit?
The main Watkins Glen State Park Gorge Trail (where you can see the stunning waterfalls up-close) closes for the season in November and typically reopens in mid to late May. You can check the New York State Parks website to see the opening date for 2025 which hasn’t been announced yet.
I visited in June, and it was perfect because the weather was sunny and warm but not too hot yet, and everything was wonderfully blooming and green! Visitors also recommend October because you can see the changing foliage and autumn colors so the waterfalls look especially magical.