Watkins Glen

Shruti Sinha

Great views, fall colors at its peak. And no matter when you hike the gorge trail, it’s always wet and muddy so dress appropriately with hiking shoes. We ended up doing the gorge trail 3 times back and forth coz it’s so pretty. And then did the rim trail too taking the Jacob ladder 150-180 steps down to gorge trail again. Visiting here 10 years we felt there is a new construction happening. Infact the start of the gorge trail is blocked and there is a detour on the rim trail to get to the gorge trail currently. Parking lot is $10 day parking, which can be used in any other finger lakes state parks.

Michael Solita

Start-to-end stunning views and modest trail length on the 1.5 mile Gorge Trail make this a perfect family hike with younger kids. We brought a group of eight with four children under 10 and everyone loved the experience. It took about an hour-and-a-half with plenty of photo and snack breaks. The Gorge Trail is mostly stone and well-maintained. We took the North Rim Trail back and it was a lot less crowded than the popular Gorge Trail. Lots of steps make for a vigorous climb at times, but it was all manageable for our 6-year-old and 7-year-old. The many waterfalls keep everyone motivated to push forward, and the rock walls make for incredible scenery throughout. One of the best hikes I’ve ever taken.

Kimmy

This place doesn’t disappoint! Beautiful waterfalls/foliage and well-maintained. I would recommend hiking shoes because it does get a bit wet/slippery on some spots. Lots of steps, but still pretty easy. Takes 1-2 hours done leisurely. Many spots to take a breather or to relax and enjoy the scenery. I’d recommend doing early and a day after it rains is best.

San Dee

Visited Watkins Glen State Park during peak fall season, and it was one of the most breathtaking experiences I’ve had. The gorge trail is simply magical , waterfalls flowing through layered rock walls, colorful leaves carpeting the paths, and mist rising from the falls made it feel straight out of a postcard. The park was fairly busy, but completely worth it. The trails are well-maintained and easy to follow, though be ready for stairs (lots of them!). Every turn offers another photo-worthy spot. Parking was easy to find near the main entrance, and restrooms and picnic areas were clean. If you can, go early in the morning to beat the crowds and catch the sunlight filtering through the gorge, it’s unforgettable. A must-visit, especially during fall foliage season! 🍂🌊

Alex W

Such a beautiful hike. Being in a gorge like this is a one of a kind experience. Trails are excellently maintained and marked clearly. Staff at the visitor center were very helpful. The entire thing is under 1.5 miles, so you can explore all the trails and see everything this place has to offer in 1 day. Also seems to have a shuttle maybe just on weekends and it's a very accessible hike/ sights for all ages.