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This New York State Region Is One of the Best Places to Go in 2022 — With Wineries, Waterfalls, and Charming Hotels

We've heard it's 'gorges.'

Jessica Ritz is a Los Angeles-based journalist with a professional background in architectural history and historic preservation. Her design, culture, food, and travel articles have appeared in Architectural Digest , Travel + Leisure , Metropolis , and Los Angeles Times , among other publications.

The Best Times to Visit the Finger Lakes

The best things to do in the finger lakes.

• Visiting the Finger Lakes' Waterfalls

The Best Hotels in the Finger Lakes

Camping in the finger lakes, the best restaurants in the finger lakes.

Named one of the best places to travel in 2022 by Travel + Leisure editors, the Finger Lakes region in central New York maintains a distinct identity. The "centrally isolated" geographic positioning of FLX, as it's been dubbed in recent years, means denizens take great pride and intentionally invest in this dispersed assortment of towns and sites full of rich, diverse histories. Ever since Ukrainian immigrant Dr. Konstantin Frank planted his first vitis vinifera vines in 1958 on 188 sloping acres along western Keuka Lake, the Finger Lakes' profile as a wine region has quietly been on the rise. A new generation of restaurants and hotels is evolving into a robust hospitality ecosystem, making the range of Finger Lakes experiences on offer better than ever.

From the base of the 1848 women's rights convention in Seneca Falls that catalyzed the suffrage movement to a comprehensive Native American heritage site and Harriet Tubman's home in Auburn, history buffs can investigate pressing questions related to the past and present. Nature lovers can explore the famed, glacially formed gorges and waterfalls and astonishingly scenic vistas around the 11 slender bodies of water — the largest three of which are Keuka, Seneca, and Cayuga — located roughly in the triangle formed by the cities of Rochester, Syracuse, and Corning. Food and beverage enthusiasts can sate themselves touring the Finger Lakes' wineries (there are more than 100) and delving into the impressive culinary scene rooted in elevating local and seasonal ingredients.

The seasons express themselves intensely and fully in the Finger Lakes. With the exception of active winter sports destinations like Greek Peak Mountain Resort and Bristol Mountain in Canandaigua, winter travel is a niche preference that comes with challenges, namely, an obscene amount of lake-effect snow. (This climate, however, accounts for the world-class rieslings and other varietal wines that thrive in low temperatures.) Unsurprisingly, summer and fall are glorious. Both seasons allow for long hikes followed by invigorating swims, whether in a lake or waterfall, and vendors' stalls are piled high with colorful organic summer produce at the Ithaca Farmers Market . Fall ushers in the grape harvest and technicolor displays of fall foliage as the school year gets underway at Cornell University and other school campuses in the area.

Ambitious outdoors adventurers can consult the Finger Lakes Trail website for routes, itineraries, and other resources related to the 950-plus-mile-long network. Letchworth State Park , a.k.a. "the Grand Canyon of the East," contains myriad opportunities for adventure, from cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in winter to whitewater rafting and hot air balloon rides. Letchworth State Park is also home to the Autism Nature Trail , an innovative, neurodiverse-inclusive program.

For trails of a different sort, FLX has five established wine trails to help guide visitors eager to investigate the wineries around Canandaigua, Seneca, Cayuga, and Keuka lakes. If making your own itinerary, don't miss the tasting rooms of FLX OG winemakers Hermann J. Weimer Vineyard and the aforementioned Dr. Frank . And for a sense of how the art and science of wine has evolved here beyond the better-known (deservedly so) winter-friendly rieslings, labels such as Heart and Hands , Forge Cellars , and Red Tail Ridge Winery are making impressive strides with crafting red wines using FLX-grown pinot noir and cabernet franc, among other varietals.

Beyond the fruit of the vine, the Rochester/Finger Lakes Craft Beverage Trail highlights breweries, cider houses, and distilleries that have kicked into high gear in recent years, primarily in Ontario County. The world of cider is quite compelling, as visitors to Finger Lakes Cider House in Interlaken on Cayuga Lake quickly learn. The rustic-chic dining room also serves an outstanding menu with views of the Good Life Farm and the lake beyond. From its Seneca Drums gin to McKenzie whiskeys, Finger Lakes Distilling has put the region on the map for spirits production using locally sourced grains and fruits.

Outstanding among the other unique cultural institutions in FLX is the Corning Museum of Glass . The sprawling facility is an immersive look into the fascinating intersections of craft, art, and design, along with American industrial history. The glass company's unrivaled collection starts with ancient specimens and continues through contemporary cutting-edge art, while the institution pushes the medium forward through its education, research, and artist residency programs .

Finally, for a water-oriented outing toward the eastern edge of the Finger Lakes, the town of Skaneateles, at the northern tip of its namesake lake, is another enchanting destination. Book a cruise with Mid-Lakes Navigation , which offers cocktail and dinner cruises aboard different vessels.

Visiting the Finger Lakes' Waterfalls

"Ithaca is Gorges" is a well-known tourism motto and easy conversation starter when spotted outside of the town itself. This geologic feature is certainly worth bragging about and makes the surrounding area one of the most stunning destinations for hiking and swimming in naturally formed channels. Download the Ithaca Waterfalls Challenge digital passport to keep track of its 22 waterfalls and other natural attractions, from the more gentle slopes of Buttermilk Falls and Buttermilk Creek to the diving board perched over a deep swimming hole at Robert Treman State Park . The 215-foot waterfall drop at Taughannock Falls in Trumansburg is a perfect Kodak — OK, Instagram — moment.

Watkins Glen State Park near the southern tip of Seneca Lake merits dedicating several hours in order to extensively hike the dramatic trails that hug the glen and take in the breathtaking sight of its 19 waterfalls. (Much of the ingenious infrastructure here and at other nearby sites that carefully respect their contexts were built under the aegis of agencies created during the New Deal.) And the options are plentiful, since FLX counts over 200 waterfalls.

The Inns of Aurora on Cayuga Lake is a community and hospitality passion project from native Pleasant Rowland, founder of the American Girl empire. The five unique luxury properties that make up the Inns of Aurora each convey their own aesthetic and atmosphere (most are landmarked historic structures). The newest inn is the restored Zabriskie House, which blends retro styling with selections from Rowland's modern art collection and features 11 guest rooms. Inns of Aurora also has a brand-new wellness center, an on-site Ayurvedic counselor, a demonstration kitchen where guests can take cooking classes, and two restaurants.

The ultra-chic Lake House on Canandaigua signaled a shift in the FLX hospitality scene when its 125 guest rooms and suites in the re-envisioned retreat debuted in summer 2020. Third-generation family owners who operate the design firm Post Company (formerly Studio Tack) and development arm Brooklyn Home Company breathed new life into the site-sensitive buildings with a fresh take on understated, contemporary luxury. TLEE Spas designed the comprehensive wellness program at the Lake Houses's Willowbrook Spa , which opened in summer 2021.

Whether it's for a classic cocktail at Bar Argos , an evening with friends in the funky, welcoming Argos Warehouse outdoor lounge, or an overnight stay at the Argos Inn , any or all of these plans provide a taste of Ithaca's eclectic character. The creative reimagining of this historic house has been adapted into a modern bed-and-breakfast where no two spaces are alike.

Firelight Camps , situated just a short drive outside of Ithaca, is the best of both worlds, allowing guests to be close to nature but with the all stylish and creature comforts of a well-designed, modern, bohemian-inflected glamping site. Another perk: co-owner Emma Frisch's culinary expertise makes this your-not-so-typical camping excursion.

The camping options in the Finger Lakes run the gamut and can accommodate anyone, from camping veterans to novices. The Corning KOA Resort south of Watkins Glen splits the difference, with a campground and deluxe cabins, plus a pool and waterslide. Sampson Park at Seneca Lake Resorts in the town of Romulus (one of the many whose names evoke Greek and Roman history) hosts campers, cabin dwellers, and RV drivers. The New York State Parks system operates camping areas with fewer frills but no less awe-inspiring settings, including the Taughannock Falls , Watkins Glen , and Robert H. Treman State Park campgrounds.

Elevated homeyness of the best sort sets the tone at Hazelnut Kitchen in downtown Trumansburg. The menu is both sophisticated and hearty, whether you opt for fresh fish or a New York strip steak served with fries and caramelized onions. Alternately, the kitchen designs a tasting experience based on whatever is in season, and it's well worth trying if you're an adventurous diner.

F.L.X. Table in Geneva takes an experimental yet highly convivial approach to hospitality, curating prix-fixe menus designed for intimate groups of diners. This venture is part of master sommelier Christopher Bates and restaurant industry pro Isabel Bogadtke's ambitious F.L.X. Hospitality group, which operates multiple concepts including the Quincy Exchange in Corning's Gaffer District, F.L.X. Weinery in Dundee on Seneca Lake, and Roc Brewing Co in Rochester.

The Moosewood restaurant became a quasi-household — yet still niche — name thanks to its iconic, best-selling vegetarian cookbooks. Now, the physical space that launched an institution back in 1973 is onto its next chapter, under new ownership. Ithaca native Danica Wilcox, whose mother was a longtime member of the Moosewood collective, has revamped the beloved restaurant, located on the ground floor of downtown Ithaca's Dewitt Mall , as of early 2022. She and her team kept the warm, comforting touchstones of the space and the spirit of the menu intact, while evolving the food and beverage program to engage with the community and host events including FLX-focused wine tastings with local experts.

The laid-back vibe at Ithaca Beer Co. , home to award-winning brews like Flower Power and Apricot Wheat, make its brewery and taproom outside of town an easy pleasure. When the weather permits, the idyllic arrangement, with views of rolling green meadows and outdoor games, is ideal for families and large groups. Tasting flights pair seamlessly with the menu that's heavy on top-notch comfort food and bar classics.

The Stonecat Cafe in Hector reflects the best of FLX unconventional quirkiness, serving unpretentious, high-quality fare paired with a local wine and cocktail list. Visitors can also book a stay on the property.

16 Best Hikes in the Finger Lakes

Known for its ethereal beauty and for a vast array of vineyards that stretch out as far as the eye can see, the Finger Lakes region is an enchanting place that is brimming over with awe-inspiring beauty.

So, after exploring the wealth of long, narrow lakes that this area is named for, be sure to visit the many gorges and stunning waterfalls that are tucked away on some of the best hikes in the Finger Lakes.

Because regardless of whether you’re an expert or a total novice hiker, there’s a hike on this list that is perfect for you as you plan your next Finger Lakes getaway .

Trust me, I should know. I’ve been a New Yorker for well over 30 years and want to share all my insider tips with you so that you can quickly and easily visit all of the very best hiking trails in the Finger Lakes on this list.

So, what are you waiting for? Stop dreaming and start exploring the Finger Lakes like a real, outdoor-loving local!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Easy Hikes in the Finger Lakes

1. gorge trail through watkins glen.

Without a doubt, this is my all-time favorite Finger Lakes hiking trail on this list.

I mean, not only does this trail in Watkins Glen take you past 19 (yes, 19) different waterfalls, but you also get to enjoy some pretty awesome views even before you enter the park.

So, be sure to take some sick photos of the epic waterfall at the entrance before hopping on the Gorge Trail and then taking that to the Indian Loop.

You’ll basically go right through the middle of the gorge as you climb 800 different stone steps along the way.

Therefore, this is one of the best hikes in the Finger Lakes that should take about 1.5 hours to finish – unless you want to try the South Rim Trail, the Indian Trail, and the Punch Bowl Trail too.

Also, even though there’s no specified entrance fee, you will have to pay $8 to use the pool and park your car in the designated lot here.

Pro Tip: Wear shoes with good grip since the stone steps along the trail can get slippery when wet. Shequaga Falls is also just a 7-minute drive down the road so be sure to stop to see one of the best waterfalls in the Finger Lakes there too.

Location: Watkins Glen

Distance: 2.4 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Route: Loop

Elevation Gain: 682 feet

2. Keuka Lake Outlet Trail

Tucked in between Keuka and Seneca Lakes in New York’s famed Finger Lakes region, the awe-inspiring Keuka Lake Outlet Trail is built atop an old track that was once used by the Fall Brook Railroad.

Therefore, this is one of the best hikes in the Finger Lakes that is easily the ORIGINAL New York rail trail.

Accordingly, it’s an easy trek along the Crooked Lake Canal, with minimal elevation gain so that outdoor enthusiasts can fish, hike, bike, horseback ride, snowmobile, and cross-country ski their way through seven miles of pristine wilderness.

So, prepare for a gradual descent between the Elm Street baseball fields and Cherry Street (in Penn Yan) on a fully paved path.

And as you continue on this Finger Lakes trail from Cherry Street to the outskirts of Dresden, it will become a combination of dirt and gravel that is still easy to traverse.

Pro Tip: Keep your eyes out for Seneca Mills Falls near lock 17. The trail is also open daily from sunrise to sunset and is free to use.

Location: Dresden NY

Distance: 13.3 miles

Route: Out and Back

Elevation Gain: 295 feet

3. Taughannock Falls State Park Gorge Trail

Easily one of the most famous hikes in the Finger Lakes on this list, the Gorge Trail through Taughannock Falls State Park offers visitors stunning views of the 215-foot tall waterfall here.

In fact, this waterfall is so tall that it’s actually bigger than the granddaddy of them all, Niagara Falls. I know, crazy but 110% true.

Therefore, enjoy the super low-key hike along this flat, well-marked, Finger Lakes trail before hitting the base of Taughannock Falls itself.

And once you’ve taken all the photos that your memory card can handle, be sure to check out the 400-foot tall cliffs on either side of this awe-inspiring natural landmark.

Also, not surprisingly, this is one of the best hiking trails in the Finger Lakes that gets hella crowded. So, try to stop by on a weekday morning if you can.

Pro Tip: The best time to visit is in spring after the snow melts. You also may want to explore the South Rim Trail (about 1 mile) and the North Trail (about 1.5 miles) that takes you to the Upper Falls (aka Hidden Falls or one of the best waterfalls in the Finger Lakes).

Location: Ithaca

Distance: 2.0 miles

Elevation Gain: 183 feet

4. Grimes Glen

Located in the always awesome Hi Tor Wildlife Management Area, the trail to Grimes Glen is easy to follow but a bit chilly since the nearby stream routinely makes the ambient temperature between 10 and 15 degrees cooler than normal.

However, if you can handle the chill in the air then you’ll be rewarded with a leisurely walk on a Finger Lakes trail through a mixed hardwood forest – a stroll that culminates in a fantastic view of the area’s many magnificent waterfalls.

This is also one of the best hikes in the Finger Lakes that gets narrower as you continue along the trail and go around a bend. Eventually, though, the path will open up to reveal a view of a lovely waterfall.

Continue past the waterfall and the path will narrow once again as you move between the high walls of the glen. Be exceptionally careful since a fine layer of moss makes rocks here quite slippery.

You’ll know you’ve hit the end of the trail when you see a second waterfall and a pool where you can go swimming in the warm summer months.

Pro Tip: If there’s no space in the small lot, you can always park on Vine Street. There are also restrooms that you can use at the start of the trail.

Location: Naples, NY in the Hi Tor Wildlife Management Area

Distance: 1.1 miles

Elevation Gain: 98 feet

5. Buttermilk Falls

If you should ever find yourself in or around Ithaca, run, don’t walk, to the Gorge/Rim Trail through Buttermilk Falls State Park.

Because this is one of the best hikes in the Finger Lakes that sits inside a 911-acre state park, offering outdoor lovers stellar views of Buttermilk Falls.

So, use this short and sweet loop trail to see one of the best waterfalls in the Finger Lakes that sits at 165 feet tall and that cascades down into Cayuga Lake below.

Yeah, this is a supremely easy Finger Lakes hike since the trailhead sits near the entrance of the park and the base of the waterfall.

So, if you came here just to see this waterfall then definitely forgo the hike. You should also be extra cautious when climbing some steep stairs on the trail as you pass by some super cute, smaller waterfalls in the area.

And when you’re done, just take the Rim Trail back so that you enjoy some unique scenery en route to your car.

Pro Tip: Yeah, you’ll have to pay an $8 vehicle fee to get into this park.

Distance : 1.6 miles (for the Gorge and Rim Trail to the waterfall)

Elevation Gain: 462 feet

6. Cascadilla Gorge Trail

Serving as a connecting corridor between downtown Ithaca and Cornell, this is one of the best hiking trails in the Finger Lakes that may be short but offers visitors stunning views of the area’s many waterfalls.

Because as you walk along this 0.5-mile path, you’ll see eight different waterfalls on the Cascadilla Creek that range in size from 8 to 80 feet.

Therefore, feel free to access this trail from either the lower trailhead at Treeman Triangle Park or the upper trailhead in the back of the Schwartz Center for Theatre Arts at Cornell. And if you can’t find street parking, you can always pay for parking at Dryden Road Garage.

Now, once you’re on the trail itself, you’ll make your way through the gorge and discover picturesque stone stairways and bridges about halfway into the trail. Be sure to stop for a photo (or ten) before continuing on with the rest of your hike.

Pro Tip: This is one of the best hikes in the Finger Lakes that is only open from sunrise to sunset, between early spring and late November since the ground gets really icy. Also, even though the trail is through a developed, urban area, the gorge can still be dangerous. So, be sure to stay on the trail and watch for routine closures.

Distance: 0.5 miles

Elevation Gain: 45 feet

7. Shequaga Falls in Montour Falls

Although not a trail per say, a visit to Shequaga Falls in Montour Falls is a must-see for anyone seeking out some of the best waterfalls in the Finger Lakes.

Because even though you really only need to walk down a 0.1-mile “trail” to get to this waterfall, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of a stunning, 165-foot tall waterfall that is sandwiched in between two houses in the center of town.

Yeah, it basically sits on the edge of a small park and is super accessible from a small road that cuts through town. So, just park in the small lot (or on the street) and make your way to this breathtaking spot.

Pro Tip: Book a room overlooking the falls inside the Cook Mansion Bed and Breakfast which is right nearby.

Location: Montour Falls

Distance: 0.1 miles

Difficulty: SUPER easy

Elevation Gain; 0 feet

8. Cayuga-Seneca Canal Trail

If you are not hell bent on chasing the scenic waterfalls in the area (or if you have already seen them), you will find that the Cayuga-Seneca Canal trail is one of the most iconic trail experiences in the area.

It is a leisurely trail that allows you to take in your surroundings. You get to spot the natural flora and fauna in the area. In fact, the entire stone dust trail is lined with gorgeous trees on either side. 

Interestingly enough, the trail hasn’t fully been finished yet. You can still use it though. The eventual plan is to connect Seneca Lake State Park and the gorgeous Montezuma National Wildlife refuge. At that time the trail will be 19 miles long and a pretty long walk. The current trail starts off at Waterloo and ends at Seneca Lake State Park.

One of the interesting highlights of this trail is that it uses the roadbed that was constructed in 1896! The trail is so easy that it can be used for jogging, walking and even cycling! So it is really a trail for everybody.

Location: Seneca Lake State Park

Distance: 5.2 miles

Route: Out and back

Elevation gain: 27m

Moderate Hikes in the Finger Lakes

9. conklin’s gully in hi tor.

Located in the 6,800-acre Hi Tor Management Area, this Finger Lakes trail is best visited during October, when fall foliage is at its most vibrant and best.

After all, this area is well known for its large tracts of hardwood forests that consist of maples, oaks, beech trees, and more.

So, if you want to experience one of the best hiking trails in the Finger Lakes for yourself, drive over to the southern edge of Canandaigua Lake and access the trailhead from the dirt lot at Route 245 and Rushville Road.

Once here, follow the steep trail upward until you come to a small meadow at about 0.5-miles in. From here, you can either walk through the meadow or veer left along a steep cliff.

Personally, I’d go through the meadow and continue onwards until you hit some of the best views of Conklin Gully in the region.

Just be exceptionally cautious here since there is a steep, abrupt drop that is hidden by the canopy of this heavily forested area.

Keep going until you pass over a wooden bridge. At this point, continue left and follow the path along the cliff’s edge. Just make sure you’re wearing shoes with good traction since the trail can get a bit precarious.

Eventually, you’ll discover a service road that you can then use to return to the parking lot as you complete one of the best hiking trails in the Finger Lakes.

Pro Tip: If you want to try one of the best hikes in the Finger Lakes that is a bit more challenging, hit up the Conklin Gully 12 Falls Trail while you’re here.

Location: Naples NY in the Hi Tor Wildlife Management Area

Distance : 2.1 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 521 feet

10. Abbott Loop In Danby State Forest

If you are looking for some quiet down time surrounded by nature then you really really should consider heading to Danby State Forest. The Abbott Loop is a quiet hike in Fingerlakes that I love and recommend. In fact, it is one that I would prefer to head out on alone because it gives me a chance to think! The only downside is that it is a moderately difficult trail so company is always better. 

The trail is open all year round and it takes about 4 hours for a seasoned hiker to complete it. Despite the difficulty, you will find quite a number of hiking enthusiasts (and even their dogs) on the trail. 

Another bonus is that the trail is a loop trail so you are likely to see something new at every turn. I’m a big fan of loop trails but then you probably already know that!

Pro Tip: One thing that you really need to be aware of is that hunting is allowed on this trail. Keep your eyes and ears open because you don’t want to accidentally wander into someone’s way.

Location: Danby State Forest 

Distance: 7.9 miles

Elevation gain: 1574 feet

11. Gorge Trail in Letchworth State Park

Home to one of the best waterfalls in the Finger Lakes, Letchworth State Park is a magical place where you can hike along the super awesome, not too difficult, Gorge Trail.

Yes, it’s 14 miles long, but that’s because this leisurely stroll takes you along the east rim of Letchworth Gorge.

In fact, this natural landmark is so awesome that it’s locally known as the Grand Canyon of the East.

Plus, as you make your way along one of the best hikes in the Finger Lakes, be sure to make pit stops at various scenic overlooks to see the Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls of the Genesee River.

Also, don’t leave before taking in the awesomeness that is Inspiration Point, Wolf Creek, and The Tea Tables since these areas will all give you epic views of the canyon and waterfalls below.

Pro Tip: If you don’t want to hike the entire trail you can always drive sections of it since the trail runs parallel with the park’s main road. You should also plan to visit in spring (when the waterfalls are at their most impressive) and bring money for the $8 day-use pass.

Location : Castile (an hour away from Buffalo)

Distance: 14 miles

Elevation Gain: 2,106 feet

12. Birdseye Hollow State Forest

The Birdseye Hollow trail is an absolute smashing trail to head out on. It is moderately difficult but you can finish it rather quickly if that is your intended purpose. Me… I prefer to take in the sights as I walk along as it is an oasis from the city and I come here for the peace that the park offers.

The trail is popular all year round and during the colder months you will find that a lot of people head here for cross country skiing. If that’s not your thing don’t worry. It is also a great spot for camping and bird watching! 

One of my favorite parts about the park is the true glacier lake aka a lake that is formed by the melting glacier. If you haven’t been to Sanford Lake yet then be sure to add it to your bucket list. On a side note, just know that the glacial ice melted millennia ago. 

The other pond namely Birdseye Hollow pond was formed after the dam was built on Mud creek. 

Pro Tip: Fishing is a great idea here because boats with powerful motors are not allowed in Birdseye Hollow pond. The whole area is remarkably peaceful and I always recommend a pitstop here! 

Location: Birdseye Hollow State Forest

Distance: 2 miles

Elevation gain: 13 feet

13. Rim and Gorge Trail in Robert H. Treman State Park

Located just fifteen minutes from Ithaca, NY, this is another one of the best hikes in the Finger Lakes that feature waterfalls, waterfalls, and, oh yeah, more waterfalls.

And that makes sense since this popular hike takes you through the 1100 acres of glory that is Robert H. Treman State Park and to a stunning, 115-foot tall waterfall known as Lucifer Falls.

Therefore, if you want to try out this iconic trail for yourself, stop by between April and November and begin your journey with the 2-mile Rim Trail.

From here, you’ll meander your way through Enfield Glen and to Lucifer Falls itself. If you can, beeline it to the top for even better views of the waterfall below.

You’ll then need to descend via the Gorge Trail since this route only goes in one direction. It’s not bad though since the views on the way down are pretty dang awesome.

So, after all is said and done, you’ll go to the bottom of the gorge, ascend via a set of natural stone steps, and then continue to the top of the rim – marveling at 12 unique waterfalls along the way.

Just try to bring plenty of water and snacks – in addition to wearing a pair of decent shoes – since this hike will take about 2.5 hours to complete. Also, have some money handy since you’ll need to pay $8 for a day-use pass.

Pro Tip: Be sure to make a pit stop at the Lucifer Falls Overlook for a stellar panorama of Enfield Creek below. This is also one of the best hiking trails in the Finger Lakes that isn’t too difficult but that does require you to ascend stone steps, creating 500+ feet of elevation gain.

Distance: 4.3 miles

Elevation Gain: 820 feet

14. Interloken Trail in Finger Lakes National Forest

Without a doubt, the Finger Lakes National Forest is easily one of my favie fave natural areas in the region. I mean, not only is it home to 30+ miles of trails where you can hike, bike, ski, snowshoe, and horseback ride, but the park even connects with the legendary Finger Lakes Trail along its southern perimeter.

Additionally, the best hikes in the Finger Lakes here are incredibly diverse and include everything from well-worn paths to dirt roads to painted stones in fields.

However, the real highlight of any visit is a walk along the Interloken Trail, which has tons of switchbacks and takes you through the center of the forest, eventually meeting up with several side loop trails.

You’ll also find tons of wooded glens to explore, in addition to several pastures where farmers graze cows on federal land.

Pro Tip: This trail is muddy on the best of days so try not to visit after heavy rain. It’s also best used between May and October.

Location: Trumansburg

Distance: 11.3 miles

Route : Point to point

Elevation Gain: 705 feet

15. Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill

Believe it or not, Ontario Country Park at Gannett Hill is home to more than 600 acres of woodlands and vast meadows that provide visitors with some of the best views in the Finger Lakes.

And although there are upwards of 12 multi-use trails that are just waiting to be explored, the Ontario County Loop is easily my fave and one of the best hikes in the Finger Lakes.

After all, this somewhat up and down hike takes you to the single highest viewpoint in all of Western New York – the “Jump Off” overlook at Gannett Hill – and features unparalleled panoramas of the Finger Lakes and all of Ontario County.

You’ll also love that all of the best Finger Lakes hikes in this park are well-marked and color-coded to denote difficulty based on intensity in elevation gain.

So, take some time to explore the incredible network of loop trails here that occasionally interconnect with one another.

Pro Tip: You can also use one of the best hiking trails in the Finger Lakes to catch the intense, 50+ mile, Bristol Hills Trail through the region.

Location: Naples, NY

Distance: 2.9 miles

Elevation Gain: 374 feet

16. Indian, Finger Lakes And Gorge Trail Loop

There are so many amazing hikes in Finger Lakes that it can be hard to choose. The Indian, Finger Lakes and Gorge Trail loop is one of the moderate trails that is pretty popular because it takes you through some of the top highlights of the region.

This route takes you through Watkins Glen State Park which means that you will see other hikers in the area. It is after all a popular hiking spot. The best part about this trail? At just two miles in, you will start to catch some spectacular views. The 19 pretty waterfalls on the glen’s stream is just one example.

There are a couple of things that set this trail apart from the other hikes in Finger Lakes. For one thing, dogs are not allowed on the trail.

Pro Tip: Another important thing to realize is that the trail is a seasonal one and is subject to closure during bad weather.

If you don’t want to be disappointed, I would suggest traveling between May and October. This is considered the best time to visit the trail.

Location: Watkins Glen State Park

Distance: 6.8 km

Elevation gain: 267m

Best Hikes In Finger Lakes FAQ

Which finger lake has the most waterfalls.

We all know that the Finger lakes region is known for its amazing waterfalls. Some regions have more waterfalls than others. If you are chasing waterfalls, then I suggest heading to Watkins Glen State Park. The Gorge Trail alone has 20 waterfalls!

Can You Walk Around Seneca Lake?

Yes! You definitely can. The Finger Lakes Gorge Trail is a trail that is open all year round and is pretty easy. It is an out and back trail. As it is an easy trail, you will find yourself walking along with a lot of other people. 

A while back dogs were not allowed on this trail. That has changed now. Dogs are allowed provided they are on a lead. 

What Is The Most Scenic Finger Lake Routes?

If you want some absolutely stunning views then head to Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway. It gives you an unparalleled view of one of the most scenic Finger lakes aka Cayuga Lake. This is in case you aren’t planning on hiking though. 

Map of the Best Hikes in the Finger Lakes

Additional New York Resources You’ll Love

• Best Hikes on Long Island
• Best Hudson Valley Hikes
• Best Hikes in the Catskills
• Best Hikes in the Adirondacks
• Best Winter Hikes in New York
• Best Hikes in New York State
• Best Hikes in Upstate New York
• Best Things to do in Jamestown NY
• Best Things to do in Geneva NY
• Best Seneca Lake Wineries
• Best Wineries in the Finger Lakes

Well, that wraps up this guide to all of the very best hikes in the Finger Lakes. Tell me, did your fave hiking trails in the Finger Lakes make the list?

If not then let me know in the comments below so that i can add them to this list of top finger lakes hikes., and if you found this post useful, don’t forget to join our e-mail list before pinning this post now so that you can read it again later..

FINGER LAKES BIKING

From Otisco Lake to Canandaigua Lake—and everywhere in between—you’ll find the Finger Lakes to be a great place for biking! – provided that you are in moderately good shape and are comfortable sharing the road, of course. During your Finger Lakes cycling voyage, explore beautiful wooded trails, waterfront rides, or the road routes that wind through this incredibly scenic region.

To further explore cycling in the Finger Lakes visit fingerlakescycling.org .

HERE ARE A FEW OF OUR FAVORITE FINGER LAKES BIKING ROUTES

Otisco Lake  is a perfect spot for cycling. Otisco Valley Road runs alongside the eastern shores of the lake, and a leisurely ride along this route takes you through Amber, Bay Shore and Williams Grove. Cutting west across Sawmill Road takes you to Spafford Valley, where a right turn on West Valley Road takes you on a northwestern tack back up to the lake, where you can access the Causeway from the western shore of Lake Otisco. Otisco holds bike paths for all levels of riders with the eastern side of the lake being a leisurely pace and the western side being a higher level of difficulty.

The circuit around  Owasco Lake  is a popular Finger Lakes road cycling route with easy to moderate terrain. Emerson Park is generally the best starting and ending point. Here’s a suggested biking route that covers about 32 miles: follow Route 38 heading south along the west side of the lake all the way to Moravia, where you’ll turn right onto N. Main Street. Enter Fillmore Glen State Park on your left, then when you leave the park, turn right on Route 38 North, continue north on Main Street / Rockefeller Road and follow signs for Route 38A North, which will run along the east side of the lake all the way back to Emerson Park. While a longer ride than most beginners would take on, it is not very difficult terrain and makes for a fun challenge!

The 101-mile circuit around  Cayuga Lake  is a popular road route for biking, with Ithaca as a logical starting and ending point. This ride hugs the lake for most of the route, giving you great water views for the entire ride. For more experienced cyclists, this Finger Lakes biking route is longer than most of the others but you can do parts of it if you don’t want to bike the whole thing. Some of the hills are quite challenging but there are many stretches of easy terrain to even out your biking experience.

The  Seneca Lake  Loop is a 77-mile cycling route, with Lakeshore Park in Geneva being the most convenient starting and ending point. It’s a moderate ride, with only one grade to climb coming out of Watkins Glen.

Keuka Lake  is especially good for bicyclists. The 44-mile circuit around the lake is a popular route for Finger Lakes cycling, with spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding vineyards. What was once known as the “Crooked Lake Canal,” that linked Keuka Lake to Seneca Lake, has been out of use since 1870, but the path left by the canal is now put to good use by bikers prepared to get off the road. With just enough hills to be interesting, this is known as one of the best medium difficulty rides in the Finger Lakes!

Skaneateles Lake

Like most of the Finger Lakes, the area around Skaneateles Lake is good for bicyclists, provided that they are experienced with road riding. There are no marked biking trails on the lake, but the 32-mile circuit around the lake is a popular road route.

Things to do

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New York Bike Tours

Explore new york’s historic erie canal path, empire state trail, finger lakes wine region and the stunning adirondacks.

From America’s most storied waterway to the wineries of the Finger Lakes and one of New York’s most beautiful state parks there is a NY bike tour experience that will fit your desired road or rail-trail journey.  We’ve selected the best routes, best inns and incredible places in upstate New York for your active bicycling vacation.  Explore and enjoy!

All tours are fully supported with SAG wagons and experienced guides. Bring your own bike or rent one from Wilderness Voyageurs. These trips are loaded with picturesque scenery to explore and give you the chance to pedal your way through NY history. Plan your trip with our easy online booking option, or give us a call to make reservations. We’re looking forward to seeing you on tour!

New York Adirondacks Road Bike Tour

Spend six days adventuring through one of our country’s most beautiful natural areas: The Adirondacks. You’ll enjoy quiet roads across rivers, past mountains and around lakes. The ride begins and ends in Burlington, making a rough loop into the mountains and around Lake Champlain. Along the way you’ll experience Ausable Chasm, tour Fort Ticonderoga and discover why this area has been a classic vacation destination since the 1800s.

Trip Length: 6 days

See Adirondacks Bike Tour Information

New York’s Empire State Trail Tour

Explore the Hudson Valley along New York’s Empire State Trail! This trail, completed in 2020, allows cyclists to experience the Empire State’s urban centers, village main streets, rural communities and diverse history. Over six days, we’ll travel along the Hudson River Valley from downtown New York City to Schenectady, New York. Be one of the first to experience it!

See Empire State Trail Tour Information

Finger Lakes 6-day Bike Tour

Take six days to savor laid-back cycling, local wines, beautiful scenery, and the fantastic cuisine of the Finger Lakes, the premiere wine region of the east coast. Pedal around four of the region’s largest and deepest lakes, savoring their deep beauty. We’ll visit unique wineries, hike stunning waterfalls, and explore charming villages along the way.

See Finger Lakes Trip Information

Seneca Lake Backroads & Brews Bike Tour

Experience the wonders of the Finger Lakes region with the Seneca Backroads tour. Ride tranquil back roads, visit farms and vineyards, enjoy a scenic boat excursion on Seneca Lake, hike to stunning waterfalls, and top it all off with a craft brew from Grist Iron Brewery at the end of each day.  This is an approachable multi-surface tour. The routes follow a mix of back roads, gravel roads, and rail trails near the Finger Lakes National Forest.

Trip Length: 4 days

See Seneca Lake Trip Information

Erie Canalway Trail Bike Tours

New York Erie Canal West Bike Tour

We’ll pedal through early 1800s historic commercial port cities, explore canal locks, and ride 100 miles of the Erie Canalway, a National Heritage Corridor. This tour spends 4 days on the mostly limestone trails of the towpath of the Erie Canal, the most commercially enduring and historically significant canalway in the U.S. This tour complements our newest ride, Erie East, to complete the Erie Canalway Trail.

See Erie Canal West Tour Information

New York Erie Canal East Bike Tour

NEW – We’ve created the perfect complement to our original Erie Canal (now Erie West) bike tour that completes the Erie Canalway Trail. Our carefully designed itinerary ensures a delightful mix of cycling, sightseeing, and exploration. Along the way, we’ll encounter charming towns and villages that have been forever influenced by the canal’s presence. Take time to discover the fascinating stories, vibrant culture, and welcoming communities that make this region so unique.

Trip Length: 5 days

See Erie Canal East Tour Information

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Discover two of Italy’s premier cycling destinations: lush Umbria, renowned for its exquisite olive oil, and the noble Montepulciano wine region.

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These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

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Road : 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

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Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

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Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Road : 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel:  4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

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Hiking & Bike Trails in the Finger Lakes

From any perspective the Finger Lakes region is absolutely beautiful with so much to see. However, some would say to fully immerse yourself in the beauty, you need to experience it on the many hiking and biking trails throughout the region. 

Long and short, easy and hard, there are a wide variety of Finger Lakes hiking and bike trails to fit you

For some, the idea of hiking is a difficult trek across treacherous terrain and for others a hike resembles more of a leisurely stroll. It doesn’t matter which camp you fall into there is a Finger Lakes trail for you. Click on a trail below to for more information and find the perfect hiking or biking trail for your next visit to the Finger Lakes!

For even more information about hiking, biking, trails, and park recreation in the Finger Lakes region, please visit the Finger Lakes Land Trust and Finger Lakes Region NYS Parks . 

Finger Lakes Hiking Guide for Beginners

The Finger Lakes region of New York covers 9,000 square miles of rolling hills, crystal-clear lakes, jaw-dropping waterfalls, and quaint villages. You have numerous options for taking in this vast, picturesque landscape—from kayaking and boating to bicycling and snowshoeing—but sometimes, a good, old-fashioned hike is just what you need. Looking for all the best tips, tricks and best hiking spots for beginners in the Finger Lakes region?! Look no further! Explore all the best information for HIKING FOR BEGINNERS HERE!

Looking for some great tips and hiking essentials to have at all times? Check out this article ' Top 5 Essential Hiking Items to Have on You (At All Times!) ' from our guest contributor Jamie Stone. Items you may not have thought about, the tried and true measure and how to maximize your hiking experience! 

#1 Auburn-Fleming Trail, Auburn

#2 Harriet Hollister Spencer Memorial Recreation Area, Honeoye

#3 Finger Lakes trail, Letchworth Branch, Mount Morris

#4 Gleason Meadows & Frenchman's Bluff Trail System, Elmira

#5 Sterling Park & Nature Center Trails, Sterling

#6 Ontario Pathways, Phelps & Canandaigua

#7 Genesee Valley Greenway, Avon, Piffard, Mount Morris

#8 Park Station, Erin

#9 Between the Lakes Ride

#10 Stid Hill, Bristol

#11 Hemlock lake Loop, Hemlock

#12 Eldridge Park, Elmira

#13 Owasco Lake, Auburn

#14 The Bristol Hills, Canandaigua

#15 The Livingston Zam, Avon

#16 Catharine Valley Trail, Millport

#17 Blue Cut Nature Trails, Lyons

#18 Keuka Lake Outlet Trail, Penn Yan

#19 McCarthy Hill State Forest, Addison

#20 Six Mile Creek Gorge Trail, Ithaca

#21 Old River Road Bike Trail, Waverly

#22 Jenksville State Forest, Newark Valley

#23 Montezuma Audubon Center, Savannah

#24 Gorge/Rim Trail at Robert Treman State Park, Ithaca

#25 Orchard Outing, Sodus Point

#26 Watkins Glen State Park, Watkins Glen

#27 Spanish Loop - Finger Lakes Trail, Virgil

#28 Sugar Hill State Forest, Watkins Glen

#29 Hammond Hill Trail, Dryden

#30 Tour of the Bay, Sodus Point

#31 Finger Lakes National Forest, Hector

#32 Bluff Point Tour, Penn Yan

#33 Dabes Diversion Loop - Finger Lakes Trail, Virgil

#34 Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, Seneca Falls

#35 Taylor Valley Loop, Cortland

#36 Two Gorges Tour, Ithaca

#37 Spencer Crest Nature Center, Corning

#38 Finger Lakes Countrysides, Dresden

#39 Catharine Valley Trail, Montour Falls

#40 The Seneca Ride, Seneca Falls

#41 American Treasures Scenic Byway, Addison

#42 Great Finger Lakes State Parks and Wineries, Romulus

#43 Oakley Corners State Forest, Owego

#44 Hammondsport Circle Tour, Hammondsport

#45 Bike Route 1,2 and NYS 17, Owego

#46 Skaneateles Lake Loop, Homer

#47 Highland Forest County Park, Fabius (Hike Trail)

#48 Mendon Ponds Park, Mendon (Hike Trail)

#49 Rochester to Hamlin Beach State Park, Rochester Area (Bike Trail)

#50 Wind-Farm Loop, Cohocton (Bike Trail)

#51 Geneva Skyline Tour, Geneva (Bike Trail)

#52 West River Marsh Hi Tor Wildlife Management Area, Naples (Water Trail)

#53 Huckleberry Swamp, North Rose (Hike Trail)

#54 Parks to Golf to Ice Cream, Bloomfield & Victor (Bike Trail)

#55 Chimney Bluffs State Park, Huron (Hike Trail)

#56 Burned Over District Tour, Palmyra (Bike Trail)

#57 The 'Grand Canyon of the East' Letchworth State Park, Mt. Morris (Hike Trail)

#58 Ring Around Geneseo, Geneseo (Bike Trail)

#59 The Hills are Alive, Lakeville/Lima/Livonia (Bike Trail)

#60 Springwater-Hemlock Lake-Reynolds Gull (Hike Trail)

#61 Stony Brook Gorge and Rim Trails (Hike Trail)

#62 Gorham's Lakeviews and History (Bike Trail)

#63 Family Adventure, Avoca (Bike Trail)

#64 Victor Trails and Parks, Victor (Hike Trail)

#65 Canandaigua Outlet, Manchester (Water Trail)

#66 Mural Trail Tour, Lyons (Bike Trail)

#67 Hornby Park, Hornby, NY

#68 Kanakadea Park, Hornell, NY

#69 Corning Boyd's Corners, Cameron, NY

#70 Corning Michael C Fucci Memorial Park at Shawmut, Hornell, NY

#71 Corning Birdseye Hollow Park Trail, Bradford, NY

#72 Corning Antiquing Tour -- Savona Coopers Plains Loop

Greater Finger Lakes Region

Mount Morris

Trumansburg

Watkins Glen

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Trails & Trip Ideas

Once you have chosen your vacation destination, deciding what to do on that vacation can be overwhelming, so we are here to help you make the best use of your time in the Finger Lakes. There are so many options and it seems like never enough time!

Browse through our sample itineraries that cover a variety of interests from wine, beer, and food to outdoor recreation to history and the arts. If you do not find your area of interest, contact us and we are always eager to help craft an itinerary that checks all your vacation wish boxes!

Choose a Finger Lakes experience.

Taste the best of Finger Lakes food and drinks in Ontario County. From Geneva and Canandaigua to Naples and Clifton... Read More »

Outdoor Recreation

Getting outdoors is essential in the Finger Lakes with endless opportunities for outdoor adventure year- round. Snow... Read More »

How To Beer And Wine Trail

Wine is a Finger Lakes staple and with so many wineries, wine trails, wine centers and tasting rooms throughout the... Read More »

Roadside Attractions and Routes 5 & 20 Trail

Miles and miles of roadside attractions are waiting to be discovered on any route you choose to travel through Ontario... Read More »

A Girls Getaway

Gather your gal pals and head to the Finger Lakes for a girlfriend's getaway like no other with plenty to do for... Read More »

Top Things To Do

We know visitors to the Finger Lakes are travelers with discerning taste looking for authentic experiences that will let them immerse themselves in the Finger Lakes lifestyle and discover the best of the region.

Erase the word "bored" from your kids' vocabulary by exploring the multitude of fun family activities and... Read More »

History happened here in the Finger Lakes and our museums, historic sites, historic markers, and live narratives are... Read More »

Colors Of The Season

Late September through mid-October enjoy the spectacular show of glorious reds, yellows, oranges, and greens framing... Read More »

Castles, Lakes And Grapes Galore

Castles, Lakes and Grapes Galore Read More »

Top 10 Ways To Find Comfort On A Rainy Day

The Finger Lakes Region has four distinct and beautiful seasons with warm summers, cool spring and fall air, and crisp,... Read More »

The Start and End of the Finger Lakes Trail

All right. Well. I’m just going to say it: this year was not exactly the year that hiking trips worked out for me.  Oh and three! That might actually be a record.

What am I up to now?

I’m writing this post from Burlington, Vermont, sleeping on my sister’s futon or in my car, watching a decent amount of New Girl, writing, reading and going on a few day hikes. It’s not exactly what I had down in the books — OK, not even close — but it has been a bit of a blessing in disguise. Since I already had time off of work, I put my nose to the grindstone and wrote 15,000 words in three weeks. I can’t guarantee they’re good words, but they’re words. Most of them. Some might just be frustrated noises.

Right, right, right, I skipped over some parts, let’s go back and revisit them. I talked about the Finger Lakes Trail a while ago, so what happened there?

I started in Allegheny

And though I planned to leave my house by 4pm that afternoon, my friend and I didn’t get out until 5:30. It wasn’t so much packing as it was cleaning in preparation for being gone for six weeks. I double checked my maps, sent off a couple last minute emails, and I still forgot a dish to eat out of and my spork. Needless to say, the first few days I had a messy time eating those refried beans, until I stayed in a shelter one night and found a plastic fork. I had a great couple meals with it, though within 24 hours it got squashed in my food bag and lost all its prongs. I used it as a tiny spoon and my meals were still delicious, they just took a little longer to eat (and people wonder why we call ourselves ‘hiker trash’).

But having or not having utensils in the grand scheme of things was trivial. The bigger problem was that I got rained on the first four days of the trail. The trail crisscrossed a lot of old logging roads and for a bunch of it, there were unavoidable puddles in high weeds. Then a mile or two later, more unavoidable swampy trail. And again and again. So you can imagine how wet my feet were.

Swampy, muddy, perfect for an infection.

I had a little nick in the side of my toe before I started hiking, and didn’t think anything of it (actually, I had forgotten it was there). Day two it started hurting. Day three it hurt a little more, but not even close to the worst pain I’ve felt on a trail. In other words, nothing I couldn’t manage.

Let’s jump ahead and then fast forward through the next part:

Pus. Opaque white/yellow pus. GROSS. I know, I know, sorry, I’M cringing as I’m writing this and I was the one with this shit oozing out of my foot — OH MY GOSH, there I go again, I’ll stop. At least I didn’t take any pictures. I had a town stop in the middle of this, but they didn’t have any antibiotic ointment. I spent two nights rinsing it with treated water and squeezing hand sanitizer on it. Irrigation, irrigation, irrigation! Not the greatest, but it was all I had.

It took more than some water and hand sanitizer, though, and I called my brother to come pick me up the morning of my sixth full day.

I went to Urgent Care that weekend, where the doctor was reassuringly very unconcerned. I ended up losing a chunk of skin, but I’m a couple weeks out and confidant everything is in good, working order. All toes: present and accounted for.

More than the infection

Unfortunately, other than that issue, my feet were pretty torn up from being that wet and took a while to heal. It was annoying but not detrimental to my foot, and other hikers probably could have holed up in a hotel on the trail for a few days to a week, but there were other factors about the trail didn’t real fire my motivation to get back out on this particular one. I’ll get to that and go through day by day in my next post.

This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any product or service you purchase using the links in the articles or advertisements. The buyer pays the same price as they would otherwise, and your purchase helps to support The Trek's ongoing goal to serve you quality backpacking advice and information. Thanks for your support!

To learn more, please visit the About This Site page.

Trail name: Krispies. Hiker, traveler, swim instructor and author of Hold for Hiker Trash, a novel about Trail Angels on the PCT. I call Buffalo, NY my home base, where I’m currently planning an eastbound hike of the Finger Lakes Trail and a southbound hike of the Long Trail.

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3 Days in the Finger Lakes: A Wine Trail Itinerary

I recently had the opportunity to spend a lovely weekend exploring the Finger Lakes, a region of upstate New York, and to follow their wine trail. If you’re based on the East Coast, the Finger Lakes are a perfect weekend getaway within short flying distance. And even for me based in Texas, it was not a difficult trek to fly up for there just the weekend. Once we arrived in Rochester, NY, we made our way to Belhurst Castle in Geneva, NY, the first stop on our itinerary.

Table of Contents

Where To Stay

I had three very different hotel experiences during my time in the Finger Lakes. The first night of our trip we spent in Belhurst Castle , a real late 1800s stone castle on the shores of Seneca Lake that has been converted from a home to a hotel. There is a winery on site, and one of the coolest features of the property are the wine spigots that can be found in the hallways of the castle (which means unlimited free wine, folks!). The castle also has a very rich history – during the Prohibition era, it was a speakeasy, casino, and supper club, and you can still find remnants of that history around the place (like hidden buttons to alert everyone to hide the alcohol). You can book your own stay at Belhurst Castle HERE .

Night two of our trip was spent at the lovely Mountain Horse Farm , a 33 acres B&B and wellness retreat in Naples, NY. It is quite a unique experience because the grounds are also a horse sanctuary, and one of the packages available to guests is to spend time with the horses (note: no riding though, these are rescued horses). In the winter, you can go skiing at the nearby Bristol Mountain Ski Resort, and in the summer they have an option to go glamping in their traditional Native American Sioux tipis. All of the rooms have access to jacuzzis, with some even having their own private jacuzzis. During my stay, we went out and made s’mores and drank wine around the fire pit, and then I retired back to the jacuzzi to watch the stars and relax before bed. It was quite magical, and I could see why it would be a great place to come for a weekend wellness retreat.

For the last night of our trip, we checked into The Bed and Breakfast at Oliver Phelps in Canandaigua, NY. Built in 1812, the beautiful house is situated in the Historic District of Canandaigua for easy access to the town’s shops, restaurants, and more. The Federal style home has five guest rooms in total, each complete with private baths, and downstairs there is a living room area with coffee and a large selection of tea for guests. The owners, Bill and Lynne, are absolutely the nicest hosts one could have, and Lynne’s breakfast is amazing. Honestly, the pancakes were maybe the best pancakes in my life.

A 3-Day Winery Itinerary

Below I’ve included my full itinerary of everything we did, all the wineries we drank at, and every meal we ate during our weekend in the Finger Lakes. 

• Arrive into the Finger Lakes via Rochester
• Arrive and check-in to Belhurst Castle and relax on property
• Drinks at Edgar’s Bar at Belhurst Castle, where we learned about the Prohibition history of the building (and especially the bar)
• Explore Linden Street in Geneva

Dinner at FLX Table

• Arrive back at Belhurst Castle for bed

The town of Geneva, NY

• Watch the sunrise on the lake at Belhurst Castle, then check out in the morning

Breakfast at Simply Crepes

• Heron Hill Winery
• Arbor Hill Winery
• Lunch at Brew & Brats at Arbor Hill Winery
• Check into Mountain Horse Farm
• Meet the rescued horses in the stables and explore the grounds
• Hazlitt’s Red Cat Cellars Winery

Inspire Moore Winery

• Dinner at Roots Café next door to Inspire Moore
• Return to Mountain Horse Farm for s’mores and wine at the fire pit
• Relax in the jacuzzi and watch the stars before bed

Ice cream sundaes at Brew & Brats

Pizza and wine at Heron Hill Tasting Room

The outdoor pizza oven at Heron Hill

Arbor Hill Winery and Grapery

Brew & Brats at Arbor Hill Winery

Hazlitt’s Red Cat Cellars

• Breakfast at Mountain Horse Farm
• Try grape pies at Monica’s Pies (the Finger Lakes are famous for grape pies!)
• Photography Stop at County Road 12 Overlook for a great scenic viewpoint
• Lunch at Rio Tomatlan
• Raymor Estate Cellars Winery
• Check into The Bed & Breakfast at Oliver Phelps in Canandaigua
• Happy Hour Cocktails at Kindred Fare
• Dinner at Kindred Fare
• Back to the B&B to get some rest before flying out the next morning

Grape piemaking at Monica’s Pies

Scenic overlook at County Road 12

Raymor Estate Cellars

Kindred Fare

Rio Tomatlin

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Disclaimer: This post is in collaboration with Finger Lakes Visitors Connection . As always, all opinions are my own.

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How to Plan a Backpacking Trip on New York’s Finger Lakes Trail

When people think of New York, their brains usually jump straight to the city and its boroughs. Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, Staten Island, Broadway, Times Square, Wall Street, the Rockefeller Center, the Statue of Liberty ! As a native Western New Yorker though, I’m here to remind you that New York is, in fact, quite a large state that stretches far beyond the city—all the way west to Ohio and north past Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Vermont to meet Canada. In addition to the fashion capital of the United States, this beautiful state boasts tranquil forests, quaint little towns, rolling hills, rustic old farms, endless swimming opportunities in lakes, streams, and waterfall pools, and a surprising amount of wildlife.

Though I haven’t lived there in many years, scenic Western New York is where I grew up, went to college, and where most of my family still lives. It played a massive part in my love for the outdoors, and it will always have a piece of my heart. Recently, I made a trip back home to visit my folks, and while I was there, I decided to check out New York’s very own long trail—the Finger Lakes Trail—while reconnecting with some of my Appalachian Trail friends who live in New York and Massachusetts. It did not disappoint. Though I was only on the trail for about three days, I was totally charmed by it!

The Basics – What is the Finger Lakes Trail?

The Finger Lakes Trail (FLT) runs for 584 miles from Allegany State Park in southwestern New York (this part of the state is known as the Southern Tier) east to the better-known Catskill Forest Preserve . These 600ish miles are part of the much longer North Country National Scenic Trail, which spans 4,700 miles from North Dakota to Vermont. The trail crosses through state parks, state forests, wildlife management areas, and even across some private land. In addition, there are hundreds of miles of trails that extend from the main end-to-end FLT.

The FLT passes through the renowned Finger Lakes Region in Central New York, which is where the trail gets its name. The Finger Lakes Region is not only known for the eleven finger-shaped lakes from which it gets its name, but it is also New York’s wine country, where world-class Rieslings, Gewurztraminers, and other varieties are produced. (I attend the Finger Lakes Wine Festival every year—it is THE MOST FUN!). I was honestly hoping to stumble upon a winery as I trekked along the FLT but unfortunately it did not happen!

Planning a Trek Along the Finger Lakes Trail

When I was back home in New York, I wanted to reconnect with both the forests that I had called home for so long, as well as my AT tramily who lived in Eastern New York and Massachusetts. However, I had a limited amount of time to do so—just a long weekend—and my friends live hours away from my parents’ house where I was staying. Because the FLT crosses a large chunk of New York State and spans for so many miles, it ended up being the perfect choice, allowing my friends and I to meet somewhere in the middle. We ultimately chose to hike a 37.5-mile section of trail from Robert H. Treman State Park near Ithaca to Watkins Glen State Park in Watkins Glen. Both of these parks are absolutely stunning—known for their waterfalls and gorges carved out of shale, so I assumed the country in between would be stunning as well. (I was right).

If you’ve done much backpacking, then you know hiker hunger starts pretty much as soon as you get into the woods with your pack. Oh, you have to live on the ramen and candy bars that you have on your back? Your mind will immediately and urgently start thinking about all the “society food” that you can get upon finishing your miles. The FLT actually marches straight through downtown Watkins Glen, which is FULL of restaurants and eateries, which is a major reason we decided to hike it in this direction.

The Nitty Gritty

Unlike some of the more well-known long trails like the AT and the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), I could not find a ton of information about the FLT ahead of time. Luckily, there are paper and digital maps available from the Finger Lakes Trail Conference (FLTC), which is what we ended up using, but these don’t compare to the plethora of resources available for the AT and PCT, for example (what’s up AWOL and Guthook Guides !).

The FLT is broken up into 33 smaller sections (labeled M1 through M33), beginning with M1 in Allegany State Park and ending with M33 in the Catskills. The FLTC offers a free interactive map on their website, but if you want the locations of water sources, campsites, and more, you’ll have to purchase their more detailed maps, which I would recommend doing both for the knowledge and because it helps to support the maintenance of the trail. I also found helpful descriptions of each section on CNYHiking.com , which I’d recommend checking out for more detailed information.

While I think the FLTC does a decent job with their maps and I’m sure spent a good deal of time creating them, I would caution that since they are just static maps, they do not reflect recent trail conditions, etc. For example, because we were hiking during a drier time of year, the water sources listed on the map were often dried up. Even predicting this could happen, a couple of the people in our group almost ran out of water, so I would caution extra preparedness, especially for those used to the up-to-date information from programs like Guthooks.

In addition, even though we researched places that we could park ahead of time, one of the parking lots that we planned to park at did not allow overnight visitors, though we did not know that until we arrived. Luckily, this was the lot in the middle of Watkins Glen where we had cell reception and a visitor’s center to ask at so we were able to find a new place to park, but by the time we got to Robert H. Treman State Park, our service was nil. So, all I’m saying here, is that without the availability of up-to-date comments from users, etc., it does not hurt to be extra prepared with information and resources.

One last consideration is that because the FLT runs through some private land, there are special rules at some points of the year. For example, deer hunting is especially popular in many regions of Upstate New York, and the FLT is no exception. We happened to be there during bow hunting season, so we were sure to wear right colors (check out my sexy orange vest in my photos from the trail!), and in some places, we were rerouted around sections of the forest that were closed because of this. Check the FLTC trail conditions page for information such as this before you go.

The Loveliness of the Trail

This trail, despite never running into a winery like I’d hoped, was absolutely lovely. The terrain was easy, leading us up and over gentle rolling hills through serene forests, and we passed multiple little gorges with little waterfalls running through them. We were lucky enough to be there during peak autumn, when the hills popped in Fruity Pebble oranges, reds, and yellows. Despite it being leaf-peeping season, we hardly saw another soul on trail the entire time we were out there! Though there was some road walking, especially as we got close to Watkins Glen, most of it was on back country roads, and it was fun to pass by the houses and yards, taking a small peak into life in rural Western New York. There was even an AT-style shelter or two, which we were obviously charmed by. One even had a pond with a dock and Adirondack chairs, which in hiker world is living LARGE! There must be some really engaged trail volunteers out that way, and we sure appreciated them for it!

Our second night on trail, we found ourselves at one of the most stunning campsites that I have ever stayed at. We had planned to hike even farther, but this place was too good to pass on by. It was a forested little pond with incredible views of the hill beyond, with a nice grassy patch with a campfire ring in front of the pond where we cooked dinner, made a fire, and sipped on boxed wine and hard ciders. (Pro tip: always pack out wine!). The leaves were popping vibrantly in their autumn colors, and their reflection in the water made the pond look otherworldly.

Two hikers even came by the pond looking for a cranberry bog in the area, which I did not even know grew in New York! Apparently, they found it less than a quarter mile away, warning us that the water was insanely cold and they wouldn’t recommend going in. We tried to find it the next morning, but having never seen a cranberry bog before, we were unsure if we wound up in the right place, though we did see a bunch of red berries growing on bushes farther out in the bog. The verdict is still out on if that was the cranberry bog or not! We also passed many grape vines along our trek, though of course their season was past by the time we went through in autumn. From what I’ve been told, because birds eat the grapes at wineries, they end up dropping seeds all over the region, so grapes are liable to pop up anywhere!

Because I was out on the trail with tramily, I felt magically transported back to the Appalachian Trail, but the very easiest , most gentle parts of the Appalachian Trail with the fewest crowds imaginable (zero crowds, and barely any other people, in fact). It was a phenomenal way to spend a weekend, reconnecting with friends and nature alike, and if you find yourself in Upstate New York and you’re looking for a bit of adventure on the easier side, I would definitely recommend the Finger Lakes Trail. If you do visit, please let me know if you find a winery along your trek (I want to know where they’re hidden!), and if not, I’d definitely recommend checking out one or two Finger Lakes wineries afterward (but stay away from reds!).

Happy trails! If you enjoyed this post, check out my highlight Reel of the trek, and be sure to follow me on Instagram and subscribe to my e-mail list!

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Published by audrey.

Hi! My name is Audrey, otherwise known as Glowstick on trail. I've always been into hiking, adventuring, and the outdoors, but these things took a backseat as I worked on my career in public relations for several years in Washington, D.C. In 2018, I decided that I was discontent with city life. Instead of working on my career, I needed to work on my happiness. So, I reprioritized. I quit my (amazing) job at World Wildlife Fund, thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail, and relocated to beautiful Boulder, Colorado, where I work in climate communications and climb mountains every chance that I get. View more posts

2 thoughts on “ How to Plan a Backpacking Trip on New York’s Finger Lakes Trail ”

Where did you overnight park in Watkins Glen?

There is one parking lot in Watkins Glen State Park where they allow you to park overnight. I believe it is the one near the pool. We stopped at the visitor center to double check before we set out.

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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Walking Tour: Kitai Gorod

Kitai Gorod, with its twisting and winding streets, is the oldest section of Moscow outside the Kremlin. The literal translation of Kitai Gorod is "Chinatown," but there has never been a Chinese settlement here. The origin of the word kitai is disputed; it may come from the Tatar word for fortress, but most likely it derives from the Russian word kita, in reference to the bundles of twigs that were used to reinforce the earthen wall that once surrounded the area.

Kitai Gorod begins where Red Square ends. Settlement of this area began in the 12th century, around the time that the fortified city of Moscow was founded on Borovitsky Hill (the site of the present-day Kremlin). By the 14th century Kitai Gorod was a thriving trade district, full of shops and markets. At that time it was surrounded by earthen ramparts, which were replaced in the 16th century by a fortified wall, remnants of which still remain. As Moscow grew, so did Kitai Gorod.

At the time of the Bolshevik Revolution it was the city's most important financial and commercial district, with major banks, warehouses, and trading companies concentrated here. These days the multitude of shops, restaurants, and banks demonstrates the area's reasserted role as an energized commercial center.

A good starting point for your tour is Nikolskaya ulitsa, which begins at the corner opposite the Historical Museum and runs along the north side of GUM. If you are coming from St. Basil's, walk away from St. Basil's toward the Historical Museum alongside GUM. If you are coming from outside of Red Square, get to Nikolskaya by way of Teatralnaya Ploshchad (Theater Square). If you are standing with your back to the Bolshoi on this square, walk straight ahead, cross the street, and enter one of the narrow passageways to the right or left of the Teatralnaya metro station (as you are facing it). Taking a right out of either passageway will bring you to Nikolskaya ulitsa. Go a short way farther to the right, to the cobblestone edge of Red Square, to begin your walk.

Nikolskaya ulitsa, which is named after the Kremlin's Nikolskaya Gate Tower, is one of the oldest streets in Moscow. At the corner with Red Square is the Kazansky Sobor . Leaving the church, take a left to make your way through the teeming crowds of shoppers on Nikolskaya ulitsa to No. 7, the Zaikonospassky Monastyr , the former Slavonic-Greco-Latin Academy now undergoing a slow restoration. Farther down the street, also on the left-hand side, is a once brightly painted white-and-aqua building with an elaborate facade (No. 15). The building was erected in 1810-14 on the site of the 16th-century Pechatny Dvor (Printing Yard), where Russia's first printed book was assembled in 1553. Today the building houses the Moscow Institute of Historical Records and the Moscow Humanitarian University. Cross the street to go down Bogoyavlensky pereulok. Halfway down the block, opposite the entrance to the Ploshchad Revolutsii metro, is the Bogoyavlensky Sobor . Continue down the street to where it intersects with ulitsa Ilinka. Before the 1917 revolution this was Moscow's Wall Street, and it is still lined with the impressive facades of former banks.

On the left-hand corner stands the former Ryabushinsky Bank . As you cross the street, look to your right; ulitsa Ilinka leads directly to the Kremlin's Tower of the Savior. At No. 3 stands the Tserkov Svyatoi Ilii church from which the street takes its name. The church, which dates to 1520, is in disrepair except for its facade. Opposite the church is one of the border streets of the Gostinny Dvor merchant's arcade. Turn left and walk the length of Khrustalny pereulok to reach one of the oldest streets in Moscow, Varvarka ulitsa. The opposite side of the street is lined with quaint old churches and buildings, but the first thing you'll likely notice is the gray bulk of the massive, concrete-and-glass Rossiya, one of Europe's largest and most unattractive hotels.

At the farthest corner of the street, to your right, is the Tserkov Velikomuchenitsy Varvary . Adjacent is the English Court . Next comes the white-stone Tserkov Maksima Blazhennovo . The pointed bell tower situated just before the semicircle sidewalk leading to the upper-level entrance of the Rossiya hotel was once attached to the redbrick Znamensky Sobor on the other side of the sidewalk; with its foundation on the slope below, it is set back from the street. At No. 10 is the Palaty Romanovych v Zaryadye , believed to be the birthplace of Tsar Mikhail Romanov. Before leaving Varvarka ulitsa take note of the last church, the blue Tserkov Georgiya na Pskovskoy Gorke at No. 12.

If you stand to the left of the church (on the walkway leading to the Rossiya hotel) you can glimpse a remnant of Kitai Gorod's 16th-century brick fortification wall. It is to your left, opposite the hotel's eastern facade. Cross to the other side of Varvarka ulitsa and walk a short hop past the final church. Make a right and climb up the narrow Ipatevsky pereulok, which leads to several government and administrative buildings. At the top of the incline to the right is one of Moscow's best-preserved 17th-century churches, the Tserkov Troitsy v Nikitnikach .

Continue down the lane to the right of the church to reach Novaya Ploshchad, or New Square, which is more like a boulevard than a square. To your right, at the far bottom of the hill, Slavyanskaya Ploshchad opens up. At the bottom of the hill is the redbrick Tserkov Vsekh Svyatykh na Kulishkakh . From Novaya Ploshchad stroll for a long block or two past the government buildings, where the Central Committee of the Communist Party once sat. Now these buildings house the Duma of the Moscow Region. Soon you will come to the beginning of a busy intersection. To your right, in the median strip that divides Novaya Ploshchad, is a park that holds the Plevna Memorial, an octagonal, towerlike monument commemorating the Russian soldiers who fell in the Battle of Plevna in the Russo-Turkish War (1878). Keep walking up the street on the left side to go to the Muzey Istorii Goroda Moskvy , a small museum on Moscow's history.

Note the building on the opposite side of the street that takes up the entire block. This is the Politekhnichesky Muzey , a museum of science and technology. Directly north of this museum is yet another museum, Muzey Mayakovskovo , which includes a re-creation of the study of the great revolutionary poet. A short distance from here, Novaya Ploshchad intersects with the circular Lubyanskaya Ploshchad , where you can behold the Lubyanka Prison and the former KGB headquarters, which now house the FSB -- the New Russia's federal security service. On the west side of the square is Detsky Mir, a large department store that used to specialize in toys but now carries all sorts of items.

Walk past Lubyanskaya Ploshchad to the west side, down to where it converges with the broad street of Teatralny proyezd, Moscow's most elite shopping street. On a side street to your right stands the ornate and luxurious Savoy hotel (3 Rozhdestvenka ulitsa), which, like the nearby Metropol hotel, was built in connection with the celebrations in the early 20th century honoring 300 years of the Romanov dynasty. On the left-hand side of the street you will pass a statue of Ivan Fyodorov, the printer who produced Russia's first book at the old Printing Yard on Nikolskaya ulitsa. The arched gateway just to the right of the statue links Teatralny proyezd with Nikolskaya ulitsa, the street on which you started the tour. Teatralny proyezd leads into Teatralnaya Ploshchad, site of three of Moscow's most important theaters.

Taking up the block on the southeast corner, the first building you will encounter to your left as you approach Teatralnaya Ploshchad is the Metropol , an art nouveau hotel. Reaching the square, you will see at the center a large monument to Karl Marx, carved on the spot from a 200-ton block of granite and unveiled in 1961. Across the boulevard stands the Bolshoi Theater , flanked on the left, on the corner farthest away from you, by the Central Children's Theater, and, to the right, by the Maly Theater . Turn left at the corner of the Metropol, and walk by the park and the hotel's main entrance. The large redbrick wall ahead is the other surviving remnant of the 16th-century fortification wall that once surrounded Kitai Gorod.

The wall has been heavily rebuilt, and a new tower has been added. Inside the tower are a couple of restaurants and bars. When you reach the Teatralnaya/Ploshchad Revolutsii metro station, take a moment to admire the exterior of the massive redbrick building on the corner -- the Muzey V. I. Lenina . If you still have some time but not much energy, consider hopping on Trolleybus 2, which can be caught at the bus stop opposite the Bolshoi Theater. The trolley ride takes about 45 minutes and makes a loop passing by Lubyanskaya Ploshchad, Ploshchad Pobedi (Victory Square -- note the obelisk topped by an angel), the Borodino Battle Panorama (in a circular blue pavilion), Kievsky vokzal (train station), the Novy Arbat, and Alexander Garden, before returning to Teatralnaya Ploshchad. You can purchase a ticket for 10R from the driver. Try to have exact change. Make sure to punch the ticket on board the bus.

Taken at a leisurely pace, with stops at least to glance at the interiors of the many churches along the route, this walk should take about five hours. If you intend to take a quick look at the exhibits in the museums along the way, you'll need an entire day. Both the Politekhnichesky Muzey and the Muzey Istorii Goroda Moskvy are worth coming back to for a more leisurely look at their holdings.

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