On the second day of a Memorial Day long weekend trip in Upstate New York, I finally visited Watkins Glen State Park, a place I had been wanting to see for years. It had just finished raining on Sunday, and as expected, the post-rain gorge scenery lived up to its reputation. It was extremely crowded, but because I had slipped in the day before in the evening for a short walk when it was quieter, most of the photos ended up almost empty of people (a very smart move, honestly). The sound of rushing water throughout the gorge was incredibly soothing and relaxing. The waterfall cave-like section in the first photo is one of the most popular viewpoints, but the entire trail is visually stunning from start to finish. It’s hard to put into words how surreal and powerful nature feels here. The hype is absolutely justified. We hiked about 2.6 miles through the most scenic section, and on the return, we took the South Rim Trail and reached a suspension bridge overlooking the gorge. Watching the rushing water and crowds from above was also quite interesting. Parking is usually $10 inside the park, or you can use a receipt from another park as well. This time, we parked for free on the street near Nickel’s Texas BBQ, which is about a 10-minute walk to the park entrance and a very convenient option.
Watkins Glen
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Watkins Glen
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Watkins Glen famous?
Watkins Glen is famous for its dramatic 400-foot-deep gorge carved through Devonian shale and sandstone, featuring 19 waterfalls along a 1.5-mile trail with stone steps and tunnels dating to the 1800s. It's considered one of the most beautiful gorge trails in the eastern United States and hosted Formula One racing from 1961–1980.
Can you swim at Watkins Glen?
No — swimming is not permitted in Watkins Glen State Park gorge trail area. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Watkins Glen?
Dogs allowed on leash in campground and rim trails, but not permitted on the Gorge Trail. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Watkins Glen free? Do you need a permit?
Vehicle entry fee applies (typically $8–10 per vehicle, rates may vary seasonally). Empire Pass accepted. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Watkins Glen?
Main parking area at the state park entrance with vehicle entry fee ($8–10 per vehicle, subject to change). Additional parking at upper entrance near pavilion. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Watkins Glen?
The Gorge Trail is about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) one-way from lower to upper entrance, passing 19 waterfalls with stone stairs and bridges. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Watkins Glen hike difficulty
Moderate — the Gorge Trail includes over 800 stone steps, uneven surfaces, and narrow passages through the gorge with mist and potential slippery conditions. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Watkins Glen?
Late spring through early fall (May–October) when the Gorge Trail is open; peak flow is typically in spring. The trail closes in winter due to ice. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Watkins Glen
From the main entrance, descend into the gorge and follow the stone pathway upstream through the narrow canyon. The trail features stone steps, bridges, and tunnels carved through rock, passing 19 waterfalls including Rainbow Falls and Cavern Cascade. You can return via the same route or take the gentler Indian Trail or South Rim Trail back to the parking area.
Watkins Glen official website
Attractions near Watkins Glen
- •Seneca Lake — one of the Finger Lakes, offering wine tours, boating, and scenic drives
- •Montour Falls/She-Qua-Ga Falls — nearby village with multiple waterfalls including a 156-foot main fall
- •Finger Lakes Wine Country — numerous wineries and tasting rooms throughout the region
- •Taughannock Falls State Park — 215-foot waterfall, tallest single-drop fall in NY (30 min north)
- •Corning Museum of Glass — world-renowned glass art museum about 25 miles away
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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