Hiking the Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park: A Must-See Finger Lakes Adventure
If you’re looking for one of the most breathtaking hikes in New York, Watkins Glen State Park should be at the top of your list. Known for its 19 cascading waterfalls, narrow stone pathways, and towering cliffs, this park offers one of the most scenic and family-friendly hikes in the entire Northeast. On our recent visit, we explored the legendary Gorge Trail — and it quickly became one of our all-time favorite hikes.
Where Is Watkins Glen State Park?
Watkins Glen State Park is located in the heart of the Finger Lakes region of New York, just off the southern tip of Seneca Lake. The park is easily accessible from towns like Ithaca, Corning, and Elmira, making it a perfect stop for RV travelers exploring upstate New York.
This park is best known for its deep shale gorge that has been carved by Glen Creek over thousands of years. The result is a magical trail filled with waterfalls, stone bridges, and tunnels that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world.
Hiking the Famous Gorge Trail
The Gorge Trail is the crown jewel of Watkins Glen State Park — and for good reason. This 1.5-mile (one-way) trail follows the path of Glen Creek as it winds through the gorge, passing 19 waterfalls along the way. You’ll walk behind waterfalls, climb stone staircases, and cross picturesque bridges, all while surrounded by the steep, moss-covered cliffs of the gorge.
We started our hike from the Main Entrance, which immediately greets you with the park’s most famous feature — Cavern Cascade. Here, the trail actually passes behind the waterfall, offering an unforgettable view and one of the best photo ops in the park. From there, the gorge continues to reveal one stunning waterfall after another — Rainbow Falls, Central Cascade, and Spiral Gorge, just to name a few.
Trail Details and Tips for Visiting
Distance: 1.5 miles one way (3 miles round-trip if you return the same way)
Elevation Change: Approximately 500 feet
Difficulty: Moderate – the trail includes many stone steps and some wet, slippery areas
Trail Type: Out-and-back (or combine with the Rim Trail for a loop)
Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall when the water is flowing strongest
💡 Pro Tip: The Gorge Trail is typically closed in winter for safety, so check seasonal conditions before you visit. We recommend starting early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during the summer months.
Our Experience on the Gorge Trail
We visited in early fall, when the autumn leaves were just starting to turn. The contrast between the vibrant orange foliage and the dark stone walls of the gorge made the scenery absolutely stunning. The sound of rushing water echoed through the canyon as we followed the stone pathway, crossing bridges and tunnels that felt like something straight out of a storybook.
The kids loved every minute of it — especially walking under the waterfalls and spotting little rainbows in the mist. It’s one of those hikes where every turn reveals a new “wow” moment.
We took our time soaking in the views and capturing photos along the way. Even with several stops, the entire hike took about two hours round trip, including plenty of time to enjoy the waterfalls and bridges.
Accessibility and Family-Friendly Info
The Gorge Trail includes many stairs, so it’s not stroller-friendly. However, it’s very doable for families with kids who are comfortable with steps and short climbs. There are also plenty of railings and safe areas to rest.
For those who prefer an easier route, the Rim Trail runs along the top of the gorge and offers beautiful overlooks without the steep climbs and wet steps.
Tips for Your Visit to Watkins Glen State Park
✅ Arrive Early: The park is very popular, especially on weekends. Early morning hikes are quieter and cooler.
✅ Wear Non-Slip Shoes: The stone pathways can get slippery from mist and runoff.
✅ Bring a Camera: Nearly every corner of the Gorge Trail is photo-worthy.
✅ Pack Water and Snacks: While the hike isn’t overly long, it’s good to have a few essentials.
✅ Stay Nearby: The town of Watkins Glen offers great campgrounds, restaurants, and access to Seneca Lake wineries.
Camping Near Watkins Glen State Park
For RV travelers like us, Watkins Glen is a fantastic stop. The Watkins Glen State Park Campground offers spacious, shaded sites and easy access to the trails. There are also several private campgrounds nearby, as well as Harvest Hosts and boondocking options throughout the Finger Lakes region.
Final Thoughts
Our hike along the Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park was truly unforgettable. Between the rushing waterfalls, mossy cliffs, and stone bridges, it’s easy to see why this park is considered one of the most beautiful in the country. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a family traveler, or a full-time RVer like us, this is one trail that absolutely deserves a spot on your bucket list.