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FINGER LAKES PLANNING GUIDE

The Finger Lakes are an ideal place for hiking enthusiasts, campers, bicyclists, and lovers of the great outdoors. Check out the parks and nature centers around the region–from waterfalls to wildlife, there is always something new to see in the Finger Lakes. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the sights along the way!

Beaver Lake Nature Center – Baldwinsville, NY

There are so many reasons to stop by Beaver lake including boat rentals, tai chi, yoga in the park, the 100 bird challenge and many more! Visit Beaver Lake and take part in year-round hiking, activities and educational programs. 

Buttermilk Falls State Park– Ithaca, NY

Swimming, hiking, picnics, and play areas, this Finger Lakes Park really does have it all! The upper area holds a campsite, lake, and many hiking trails. The lower part of the park offers natural pools, fields, and wetlands to explore.

Cayuga Nature Center– Ithaca, NY

The Cayuga Nature Center provides indoor and outdoor programs and exhibits that encourage visitors to explore and understand the natural history of the Cayuga Lake Basin as part of the regional and global ecosystems. The Nature Center’s 100 acres of woodland and old field overlooking Cayuga Lake are home to a six-story treehouse, live native animals, a gorge and waterfall, and more than 5 miles of walking trails.

Cumming Nature Center

Cumming Nature Center– Naples, NY

Enjoy year-round recreation including hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Visit the indoor education center or sign up for camp! You can also participate in seasonal events like yoga, weekend walks, and even an eco-book club. 

Emerson Park– Auburn, NY

Theater, recreation and seasonal events make Emerson park the place to be for family fun. On the edge of Owasco Lake, 135 acres allows for boating, swimming, walking, and even a round of disc golf! 

Fillmore Glen State Park – Moravia, NY

Photograph beautiful waterfalls, hike one of the many trails, plan a day for a picnic or stay a few days to camp. There is something for everyone! In the summer, take a dip in the natural pools or go fishing. In the winter, take a snowshoe hike, cross country ski or bring a snowmobile along!

 Finger Lakes National Forest

With over 16,000 acres located between Seneca and Cayuga lakes, camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting are the names of the game here. As New York’s only federal state park, it provides educational and recreational benefits for all.


Finger Lakes Trail

A 560-mile trail that extends from Pennsylvania to the Catskills, perfect for both day hikes and overnights or hike the whole thing if you’re feeling ambitious! The trail was started in an effort to create a trail completely across New York State and is New York’s premier hiking trail.


Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area-Canadice, NY

A recreation area six miles south of Honeoye Lake, this park has miles of hiking and cross-country skiing trails. The elevation makes it great for winter activities and a lovely remote day-trip destination all year round!


Keuka Lake State Park – Bluff Point, NY

Featuring 621 beautiful acres, this lakeside Finger Lakes park is a haven for hikers, boaters, swimmers, campers, anglers, hunters, and cross-country skiers. Cinematic vistas abound at this park; you can see clear across the lake and the vineyard covered hills of the surrounding area.


Letchworth State Park – Castile, NY

Affectionately called the “Grand Canyon of the East”, Letchworth park has incredible views, great camping and 66 miles of hiking trails. But those are not the only activities this park has to offer! You could also spend the day with performing arts programs, guided walks, tours, a summer lecture series, whitewater rafting, kayaking, a pool for swimming and hot air ballooning.


Montezuma Wildlife Refuge – Seneca Falls, NY

View an abundance of birds, mammals and reptiles, or check out the visitor’s center and their interpretive programs. This wonderful refuge also offers a biking and hiking path as well as a few socially distanced wildlife programs. 


Robert H. Treman State Park – Ithaca, NY

Hike one of Ithaca’s famous gorges, home to some of the area’s most beloved swimming holes and waterfalls. There are 12 waterfalls over a nine-mile trail including Lucifer Falls and Enfield Glen. Lucifer Falls is 115 feet tall; one of the tallest in the state!


Sampson State Park – Romulus, NY

State Park on the eastern shore of Seneca lake featuring 38 miles of trails, 100+ boat slips and over 300 campsites. This massive Finger Lakes park has over 2000 acres of land for you to explore. Fishing, tennis, horseshoes, basketball, volleyball, hunting, biking, hiking, golf, geocaching, wildlife viewing and photography are encouraged!


Taughannock Falls State Park – Ulysses, NY

Sneak a peek at the magnificent waterfalls or enjoy a picnic at this great park near Ithaca, NY. “Taughannock Falls plunges 215 feet past rocky cliffs that tower nearly 400 feet above the gorge.” There is plenty of trails for hiking as well as many campsites to enjoy nature a little longer.


Urbana State Forest – Hammondsport, NY

Hike the trails and try to spy on area wildlife. This forest is dedicated to being as underdeveloped and rustic as possible. Hiking, hunting, and camping are the primary focus of this 2,690-acre plot of land. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway, Urbana can’t be beat.

Watkins Glen State Park – Watkins Glen, NY

Visit one of the most breathtaking places in the Finger Lakes. Families will love camping, swimming and picnics in the park. This is one of the most well-known parks in the Finger Lakes with miles of trails inside a beautiful gorge full of natural pools. Make sure you take the time to swim in the natural pools or the Olympic size in ground pool during your stay!

THINGS TO DO IN THE FINGER LAKES

Whether you are looking for a taste of culture, outdoor adventure, a family outing, or a romantic getaway, you can find it all in the Finger Lakes. Sip on cider and local wine, taste Finger Lakes cuisine, tour a brewery or distillery, hike a waterfall, kayak a canal, or visit a variety of gardens, museums, or theaters in one of the charming towns along the lakes.  Whatever your taste and no matter the season, there is something for everyone in the Finger Lakes. 

 These are the best places for kid-friendly nature & wildlife areas in Finger Lakes:

  • Rosamond Gifford Zoo.

  • Genesee Country Village & Museum.

  • Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.

  • Beaver Lake Nature Center.

  • Havana Glen Park.

Attractions

From professional baseball and racetracks to ski resorts and indoor waterparks–you will find countless activities for everyone in the family. Go berry picking, see an outdoor movie, tour cheese-making dairy farms on the Finger Lakes Cheese Trail, or visit one of the region’s historic museums, mansions, or parks.

Finger Lakes Events

There is never a dull moment in the Finger Lakes. Whether you are looking for something to do while you are in the region, or if you are looking for reasons to visit, there are events and festivities for every season in the Finger Lakes–any day of the week, all year long, for all ages and interests!

Ithaca Falls

Outdoor Enthusiasts

The Finger Lakes region is known for its gorgeous lakes, deep gorges, spectacular waterfalls, and rolling hills and vineyards.  From its numerous parks, village biking lanes, and miles of hiking trails, whether by horseback, boat, bike, or kayak—this region was meant to be explored.  Bring your binoculars and go birding, pack your fishing gear and rent a canoe, leaf peep, play a round of golf, try your hand at disc golf, or strap on your skis.  Whatever your pleasure, there is something for everyone.  

 

A Taste of the Finger Lakes

If you want a true taste of the Finger Lakes, sample the fruit of its vines with some local fare.  In addition to a variety of award-winning restaurants dappling the hills, there are over 100 wineries in the region offering sips of the latest varietals made from grapes grown along the steep slopes of the Finger Lakes.  Follow a wine trail, or sit back and take in the scenery with a private or group-guided wine tour via limo or bus.  If you prefer spirits, explore the area’s distilleries, featuring gin, whisky, brandy, vodka, grappa, and liqueurs.  If it’s a “Beer Trail” that you crave, check out the latest in Finger Lakes brewing

Keuka Boating

Finger Lakes by Boat

Want to explore the Finger Lakes by boat?  Choose from a variety of boat tours & cruises featuring day trips, hourly excursions, or quiet sunset cruises that set sail from various locations across the region, or go boating and take in the waters from a private vessel or rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard

Family Fun

There is more to the Finger Lakes than wine and waterfalls.  There are activities, events, and attractions the whole family will enjoy–old and young!

Arts & Museums

Discover the rich history, heritage, and local culture of the Finger Lakes with a visit to one of the region’s history museums, art galleries, or theaters for performing arts

Mackenzie-Childs

Shopping

From farmer’s markets to craft fairs, antique shops to consignment shops, and hip boutiques to outlet malls, you will find a spectacular array of specialty shopping options in the Finger Lakes.  

 

Isabella Spa Salon

Relaxation

If your idea of a getaway entails a little bit of luxury in the form of soothing skin massages, facials, or aromatherapy, choose from one of the region’s many spas, massage & wellness centers that offer a variety of services in the serene setting of the Finger Lakes.


Frequently asked questions about kid friendly trails in Finger Lakes National Forest

Where is the best kid-friendly trail to hike in Finger Lakes National Forest?

According to users from AllTrails.com, the best kid-friendly trail to hike in Finger Lakes National Forest isInterloken Trail, which has a 4.5 star rating from 149 reviews. This trail is 11.3 mi long with an elevation gain of 705 ft.

What is the longest kid-friendly trail in Finger Lakes National Forest?

According to AllTrails.com, the longest kid-friendly trail in Finger Lakes National Forest isInterloken Trail. This trail is estimated to be 11.3 mi long.

How many kid friendly trails are in Finger Lakes National Forest?

There are 9 kid friendly trails in Finger Lakes National Forest. These kid friendly trails have an average 4.2-star rating from 761 AllTrails community reviews.

Which kid friendly trail has the most elevation gain in Finger Lakes National Forest?

If you're looking for elevation gain, Finger Lakes National Forest has you covered.Interloken Trail boasts the most elevation gain for kid friendly trails with 705 ft of total ascent. The park's runner-up isInterloken Trail to Blueberry Patch Campground, which will get you 603 ft of elevation gain.


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Categories: Arts & Culture, Events, Food & Drink, History, Outdoors, Adirondacks, Capital-Saratoga, Catskills, Central New York, Chautauqua-Allegheny, Finger Lakes, Greater Niagara, Hudson Valley, Long Island, New York City, Thousand Island-Seaway



Explore the Lakeshore Preserves in the Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes Region is world-famous for its wine and spectacular beauty but it is the Lakes that draw people from far and wide. It is the crystal clear waters and pristine shorelines that visitors wish to see most. We have discovered numerous preserves around the Finger Lakes that lead hikers straight to the lakeshore of many of the Finger Lakes. These preserves allow visitors to separate themselves from the crowds and get back to nature while being able to appreciate the beautiful shorelines of the Finger Lakes. These beautiful lakeshore sanctuaries are the real hidden treasures of the Finger Lakes.

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links, which means we could earn a small commission if you purchase products from our site, at no additional cost to you.

Otisco Lake

Otisco Lake Preserve

The Otisco Lake Preserve features 1,300 feet of shoreline on the west side of Otisco Lake. This preserve provides a habitat for Bald Eagles and other shorebirds. This is a must-visit destination, especially if you love relaxing on the beach and taking in the gorgeous scenery. The trail itself is short but it is extremely steep, so the hike back up from the lake can be challenging.

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Otisco Shores Conservation Area

This lovely preserve is located on the Southeastern shore of Otisco Lake. This preserve offers visitors a chance to enjoy the shore of Otisco Lake, as they walk the trails, relax on a beach, or fish. This lovely preserve is an easy, flat hike where you can escape into the tranquility of nature.

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Owasco Lake

Owasco Flat Preserve

This is an easy hike on flat ground. Perfect for any skill level. The path is wide and grassy from the parking lot down to the water. From that point forward, it thins out considerably and twists and turns through the high grass. It follows the water all the way down to the lake. This is a wild area surrounded by enormous, old trees that hang over the water. This outstanding spot is a haven for anglers, paddlers, and hikers alike.

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Skaneateles Lake

Carpenter Falls & Bahar Nature Preserve

This stunning preserve has several waterfalls; one is easy to reach and accessible to everyone with a wheelchair-accessible ramp; the others are a bit of a challenge for more advanced hikers. The two attractions of the unique area are in opposite directions, and each trail is not very long, but together make a great excursion. If you want to really challenge yourself, you can hike all the way down to Skaneateles Lake from here.

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Cayuga Lake

Bell Station Preserve

The Bell Station property boasts 3,400 feet of stunning Cayuga Lake shoreline. This is a pristine piece of natural beauty. When we visited, we had the entire preserve to ourselves and it was just fantastic. There are numerous trails, including one that runs along the lakeshore.

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Vanriper Conservation Area & Whitlock Nature Preserve

The gem of this nature preserve is the stretch of untouched shoreline. The rocky beach is lined with mature trees, some of which have fallen onto the beach. This is a lovely stretch of beach to relax on or stroll down. This preserve offers the 2nd shortest and easiest hike of all the destinations on this list.

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Salt Point Natural Area

This is a small but beautiful natural area on Cayuga Lake that has a large stretch of shoreline to explore. This is also a small boat launch (for kayaks and canoes) and a fantastic picnic area that provides picnickers with a fantastic backdrop of the lake while they enjoy their lunch. There are a few walking trails that during the spring and summer are brilliant colored with flowers and accompanying butterflies.

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Seneca Lake

Caywood Point

You probably already know that New York State only has one national forest, The Finger Lakes National Forest. What you might find surprising is that this national forest has a small parcel of land that sits on Seneca Lake, and it is spectacular with waterfalls, a historic building, and a beautiful section of lakeshore.

Explore About Caywood Point

Canandaigua Lake

Atwater Meadow

Hidden away in the City of Canandaigua is an 18-acre parcel of land that leads visitors to stretches of beach on Canandaigua Lake. This is a great destination to enjoy the beauty of the Lake, get a great view of Squaw Island, launch a kayak, or just enjoy a quiet picnic on the beach.

Explore More About Atwater Meadows Park




East Shore Preserve at Bare Hill

The hike down to the lake isn’t long at all, but it is quite steep. There are numerous steps leading down to the lake which help not only get down to the water but back up again. There are breaks in the trees, in spots, as you descend, providing spectacular views of Canandaigua Lake. We couldn’t help but stop and just take in the view.

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Canadice Lake

Canadice Lake Trail

One of the wonderful attributes of Canadice Lake is that visitors can get close to the lake from just about everywhere around it. However, the best feature is the 8-mile trail that runs around the entire west side of the lake.

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Hemlock Lake

Rob’s Trail

The hike down to Hemlock Lake is 1.5 miles and passes by numerous waterfalls and travels through hardwood forests. If you are feeling ambitious once you reach the lakeshore, you can hike the 4.8 miles of lakeside trail down to the boat launch.

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Hemlock Lake Park Trail

In addition to the picturesque park at the south end of the lake is a trail that follows the west side of the lake. Hikers with a keen eye can see the remaining foundations of an early settlement.

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Conesus Lake

Conesus Lake Access

This is, without a doubt, the easiest shoreline to reach on the list, barely a 100-foot walk from the parking lot. The area can be muddy on rainy days and in the early spring, but it is a lovely place to enjoy a lovely view of Conesus Lake.

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Lake Ontario

Cornwall Preserve

This is one of our favorite preserves. The view of Lake Ontario here is spectacular. We often come to catch a sunrise or a sunset. This is a fantastic place to hike and there are numerous places to get down to the rocky beach.

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Loon Lake

Loon Lake Wetlands Preserve

The Loon Lake Wetlands Preserve, which opened in the Spring of 2018, is an ongoing project to restore the original water flow to Loon Lake and revive the wetlands area. This 10-acre park is in its infant stage at the moment, but there is every sign that it will grow into a beautiful park.

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Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls In Upstate New York

VISIT TAUGHANNOCK FALLS, BUTTERMILK FALLS, SHEQUAGA FALLS AND HECTOR FALLS 

Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls In Upstate New York.jpg

Exploring The Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls In Upstate New York

We enjoyed the Finger Lakes region for waterfalls on a visit to Upstate New York.  On our visit to the Finger Lakes region for tasty treats we could not miss the great outdoor sights on our stay in Geneva.

The Finger Lakes are composed of eleven long, narrow lakes in New York.  These geological features are over-deepened glacial valleys.  On this visit we explored the area around Seneca Lake and Cayuga Lake.  But we knew there was much more to explore on repeat visits. 

Finger Lakes Map.jpg

Much of the Finger Lakes area lay upon shale rock.  There was not a lot of rain when we visited so we found the water levels were quite low.  But even without thundering flows, we were glad we visited some of the waterfalls in the area.  The lower water levels provided great views of the underlying shale rock structure.

We drove around the Finger Lakes region as we searched for waterfalls.  Along the way we found Taughannock Falls, Buttermilk Falls, Shequaga Falls and Hector Falls.  Each had a little something different to offer.

Chasing Waterfalls On Our Travels

On our travels, we often headed out and explored the waterfalls.  The waterfalls of Icelandwere a major draw.  And we loved the variety in the waterfalls we found cruising in the Norway Fjords.  The Rhine Falls in Switzerland were a delightful treat on a day trip from Zurich in Switzerland.  

At home in Ontario, Niagara Falls was a wonderful day trip in any season.  And when we headed to Northern Ontario in the Fall, we found fall colors on the waterfalls.  As a Canadian, we learned how beautiful frozen waterfalls can be.  

On travels to the West Coast in British Columbia, we found raging waterfalls in the mountains around Revelstoke.  And waterfalls on great hikes from Whistler.  When we visited the Sunshine Coast, waterfalls and parks around Secheltcaptivated us for weeks.

So we were not surprised that our stay in Geneva in the Finger Lakes brought us more waterfall stops.

Our First Waterfall Visit To Watkins Glen

When we did a road trip from Toronto to Philadelphia for the July 4th, we planned our route through New York State.  We traveled down through the Finger Lakes and really had no stops planned.  But when we saw the Watkins Glen State Park right on the highway, we could not resist a road trip stop at Watkins Glen.  

We were not sure what to expect.  But we set out on a hike along the Watkins Glen gorge.  And we were delighted with the rock formations.  The waterfalls tumbled down the interesting rock formations.

Watkins Glen Waterfalls - Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls In Upstate New York.jpg


Watkins Glen Waterfalls.jpg


Watkins Glen Waterfalls - Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls In Upstate New York.jpg

Our first visit to the Finger Lakes region for waterfalls showed us the interesting geology in this area of the Appalachian Mountains.  

Views Over The Taughannock Falls

The first waterfall stop on this visit to the Finger Lakes region was at Taughannock Falls State Park.  Our research showed us a broad thundering horseshoe waterfall that was 215 feet (66m) high.  It was the highest single drop waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains.  And was in fact, 33 feet higher than Niagara Falls.

As we drove south, we saw the sign for the Taughannock Falls Overlook.  This spot was not inside the state park gate.  We were happy when we found lots of parking and several trails.  And we were pleased there was no cost for parking and no park fee.

Taughannock Falls Overlook Trails.jpg

The overlook platform was right by the information center at the parking lot.  It was the perfect spot for a first view of the Taughannock Falls.  Far below in the valley we saw the Gorge Trail with a platform at the base of the falls.

Taughannock Falls Overlook - Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls In Upstate New York.jpg

We wanted a closer view from the top so set off on the North Rim Trail.  This path wound through the woods. The cliffs on the side of this waterfall were as high as 350 feet.  Several times we looked down but the dense trees blocked a view.  We passed a lovely bench that looked like it had a view but a couple already had that spot.  So we kept walking higher along the path.  

Taughannock Falls North Rim Trail.jpg

Following The North Rim Trail At Taughannock Falls

We finally reached the end of the North Rim Trail at a bridge over the water.  When we looked downstream, we saw the gorge that led to the Taughannock Falls.  And on the other side we saw another waterfall and a more gentle set of falls over shale ledges.

Taughannock Falls Bridge View - Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls In Upstate New York.jpg


Taughannock Falls Bridge View - Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls In Upstate New York.jpg


Taughannock Falls Bridge View.jpg

At this point we could join the South Rim Trail and head down the other side of the falls.  But we backtracked along our original path.  When we reached the bench with a view, we were surprised when we got the much closer view of the Taughannock Falls we looked for.  But we were glad we did not stop here first or we might not have done the full hike to the bridge view.

Taughannock Falls North Rim Trail.jpg

When we got back in the car we debated entering the Taughannock Falls State Park for a view of the falls from the Gorge Trail on the bottom.  But we still had several more stops planned on our day trip in the Finger Lakes region for waterfalls.

Buttermilk Falls South Of Ithaca

We continued south along Cayuga Lake and went through Ithaca.  The GPS was programmed for Buttermilk Falls.  But as we found as we drove around the Finger Lakes region, the signage was often not great.  We had to make a fast turn to get into the Buttermilk Falls State Park.  The entry on Hwy 13 put us at the lower park entrance.

At the entrance gate, we asked the attendant about the water level at the falls.  We learned at Taughannock Falls that the water levels in the area were pretty low.  The attendant was really honest and said the falls were mostly a trickle.  He did not think it was really worth a hike up along the Buttermilk Creek.  Unless we just wanted a hike on the Gorge Trail or RimTrail.

There was no parking in the area outside the gate at this entrance.  But we saw the Buttermilk Falls right there.  David took the car for a short drive while I hopped out for some photos.

Buttermilk Falls - Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls In Upstate New York.jpg


Buttermilk Falls Gorge Trail.jpg

We were happy we got a view of the Buttermilk Falls. And if we wanted a long park hike, this still would have been a great stop.  When the spring thaw is on, we are sure that Buttermilk Falls would be a great waterfall stop in the Finger Lakes region.

Shequaga Falls Over Montour Falls

We headed next for the small town of Montour Falls for the Shequaga Falls.  When we did the research, we read that the waterfall was visible over the main street of the town.  But we were still surprised when we drove through town and immediately saw the falls high above the town.

Montour Falls Shequaga Falls - Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls In Upstate New York.jpg

We found two on-street parking spots in front of the park at the waterfall.  The trellis bridge at the top perfectly framed this waterfall.  Unfortunately the sun was right behind the waterfall and the falls were in shade.  This was yet another great waterfall formation with a low flow when we visited.  

Montour Falls Shequaga Falls.jpg


Montour Falls Shequaga Falls - Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls In Upstate New York.jpg

When we left we took the road that went up the hills and found the bridge over the waterfall.  It was fun to get a view of the Shequaga Falls in Montour Falls from the top.  Another fun stop wandering around the Finger Lakes region for waterfalls.

Montour Falls Shequaga Falls From Bridge.jpg


Montour Falls Shequaga Falls From Bridge - Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls In Upstate New York.jpg

Surprise Stop At Hector Falls In Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls

We really had no more waterfalls on the list for our stay to the Finger Lakes region.  But sometimes we got surprised.  When we finished our wine tasting day trip, we headed back north to Geneva up the east side of Seneca Lake.  And we no sooner got on Rte 414 before we quickly pulled over when we saw the sign for Hector Falls and the falls right off the road.  There was parking on the shoulder for about 5 cars.  

Hector Falls.jpg


Hector Falls Parking.jpg

We expected a small trickle but were amazed when we saw Hector Falls from the bridge.  The water cascaded down in multiple spots along a broad rock face.

Hector Falls - Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls In Upstate New York.jpg


Hector Falls - Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls In Upstate New York.jpg

When we looked from the other side of the bridge, we saw the water as it cascaded down several slate steps to the lake.  There was even a small road that took you down to where the falls joined Seneca Lake.

Hector Falls Down To Lake.jpg

It was great to be surprised when we drove around the Finger Lakes Region for waterfalls.

The Ultimate Waterfalls In Upstate New York

We enjoyed our travels around the Finger Lakes region for waterfalls.  But on the drive back to Toronto, we passed by the most iconic waterfalls in New York.

As Canadians, we visited Niagara Falls many times from the Canadian side.  But it was interesting when we finally saw these famous waterfalls from the U.S. side in New York State.

Niagara Falls NY - Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls In Upstate New York.jpg


Niagara Falls NY - Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls In Upstate New York.jpg

Even when it was a dry summer, Niagara Falls was never a disappointment.

Enjoying The Finger Lakes Region For Waterfalls In Upstate New York

We were delighted we found so many great stops when we explored the Finger Lakes Region for waterfalls in Upstate New York.  The ragged slate rock base created many fascinating faces for the water to fall over.  We wished we visited when the water levels were higher.  But it was still fascinating to explore the waterfalls and the New York State Parks. 

Our visit to the Finger Lakes region was enhanced with so many great outdoor sights.  We will definitely be back. 

Preserves

nature play in the finger lakes from www.fllt.org

Take in the sights of Bare Hill, South Hill, and the Finger Lakes Land Trust's Great Hill Nature Preserve (Nundawao). Owasco Bluffs Nature Preserve. Trail Info ...


Finger Lakes Welcome Center

nature play in the finger lakes from rochesterplaybook.com

Mar 20, 2021 — The Finger Lakes Welcome Center is great for tourists and locals alike! The themed playground is new as of the summer of 2018.




The Finger Lakes Museum: Home

nature play in the finger lakes from www.fingerlakesmuseum.org

Visitors are welcome to explore our newly added Playscape, a natural playground experience or take a stroll through our StoryWalk to read pages of a children's ...

Finger Lakes: Nature's Beauty by Den Linnehan

Shop Barnes & Noble Finger Lakes: Nature's Beauty by Den Linnehan online at Macys.com. The natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region of New York is captured ...

$35.95

Seneca Lake State Park

Children will be especially delighted with our Sprayground and Playground facilities. The Sprayground is the first of its kind built in the New York State Parks ...

Amazing Acres - Home

nature play in the finger lakes from fingerlakesmaze.org

Located in the beautiful Finger Lakes region, A'maze'ing Acres Adventure Playland offers seasonal outdoor fun for young and old alike!





Finger Lakes Fun for Everyone

nature play in the finger lakes from www.fingerlakestravelny.com

Sep 25, 2019 — Tanglewood Nature Center – Elmira, NY ... Always free to visit, Tanglewood offers over ten miles of trails, more than 40 species of live animals ...


Outdoor Parks & Recreation in Seneca County

nature play in the finger lakes from www.discoverseneca.com

Finger Lakes National Forest. The forest has over 30 miles of interconnecting trails that traverse gorges, ravines and pastures. READ MORE ...


34 Uniquely Beautiful Things to Do in the Finger Lakes

nature play in the finger lakes from www.dominicanabroad.com

Feb 18, 2023 — Outdoor Things to Do in the Finger Lakes · 5) Watkins Glen State Park + Trails · 6) Buttermilks Falls State Park · 7) Finger Lakes National Park · 8 ...





Kids in the Finger Lakes Archives

nature play in the finger lakes from uncoveringnewyork.com

Family Fun at the Sciencenter in Ithaca, NY · Exploring the Past at the Museum of the Earth in Ithaca · Hiking to the Six-Story Treehouse at the Cayuga Nature ...


11 Ideas For A Rollicking Finger Lakes Weekend With Kids

nature play in the finger lakes from www.familiesgotravel.com

We played a card game while sampling our flight of wines and the staff was fine with that. Some wineries have cafes and outdoor decks, so you ...


The 11 Best Things to Do in the Finger Lakes

nature play in the finger lakes from wanderwisdom.com

Dec 14, 2021 — Hiking, fishing, camping, canoeing, geocaching, and pick-your-own farms are abundant in this natural playground.


Finger Lakes Recreation | Outdoor Play Equipment ...

Finger Lakes Recreation offers a wide range of cedar and vinyl playsets, as well as residential pools and outdoor equipment.


Finger Lakes NY | Find Things to Do, Restaurants & Events

nature play in the finger lakes from www.iloveny.com

Eleven finger-shaped lakes cross the heart of New York in this region of refreshing waterfalls, gorgeous gorges, sun-kissed vineyards, and lush forests.


Finger Lakes Land Trust, once a master's project, ...

nature play in the finger lakes from news.cornell.edu

Jun 8, 2022 — The Finger Lakes Land Trust manages more than 45 nature preserves in 12 counties, from Tioga County in the east to Ontario County in the west.


Cumming Nature Center | Rochester Museum & Science ...

nature play in the finger lakes from rmsc.org

Get up close with nature at our 900 acre preserve nestled in the Finger Lakes. Explore 15 miles of hiking and ski trails, take in an exhibit at the Visitor ...



The Finger Lakes (New York)

nature play in the finger lakes from www.visittheusa.com

The Finger Lakes Region of New York State is a 9000 square mile, four-season playground, set against a backdrop of Mother Nature's best work.


Southern Finger Lakes: Homepage

nature play in the finger lakes from soflx.com

More Than You Know. Closer Than You Think. proximity lifestyle value innovation nature impact Work. Live. Play. Enjoy.Find yourself at home in the Southern ...


10 Remarkable Spots for Your Finger Lakes Family Vacation

nature play in the finger lakes from postcardnarrative.com

Aug 16, 2022 — The nature center houses several interactive exhibits to learn about the geology and inhabitants of the State Park. My son learned all about ...


Finger Lakes Nature Resorts & Retreats

As the Finger Lakes are one of New York's best kept secret and little known destination, you'll be sure to have a great vacation experiencing nature at its ...


Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region is New York's largest wine-producing region. Over 400 wineries and vineyards surround Seneca, Cayuga, Canandaigua, Keuka, Conesus, and ...

These Are the Best Finger Lakes Activities for Kids

Mar 6, 2020 — Strong National Museum of Play · Corning Museum of Glass · Finger Lakes Ice Creameries · Spend Quality Family Time in the Best Finger Lakes

Cayuga Lake State Park

A scenic destination for lovers of hiking, camping, or outdoor sports, Cayuga Lake State Park is a beautiful spot in the Finger Lakes Region of New York ...


Nature's Sweetness

Experience nature's sweetness in Finger Lakes Farm Country. Surrounded by an abundance of natural resources, local producers are able to create the purest ...


17 Best Things to Do in The Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region of central New York is known as an outdoor lover's ... The Strong National Museum of Play in downtown Rochester has something for ...


Exploring New York's Finger Lakes with Young Kids

Jul 24, 2019 — Ithaca Children's Garden ... My kids love places where they can play freely in a natural environment. Therefore, we were super excited to discover ...


Seneca Lake State Park's Sprayground and Playground

KidsOutAndAbout.com

Seneca Lake State Park is tops on parents' list for summer water fun in Western New York and the Finger Lakes! Because the Park had no specific web page ...


More to Explore in Finger Lakes Wine Country

APPROACHABLE • IMMERSIVE • LEISURELY. Keuka Lake Fall Landscape. Finger Lakes Wine Country is home to picturesque small towns, spectacular natural ...


Camping and Outdoor Adventures: A Match Made in the ...

Corning Finger Lakes

It seems fitting that both camping and the great outdoors are nationally ... scenic biking trails, woodsy hiking trails, and fishing on Keuka Lake.


Camping and Outdoor Adventures: A Match Made in the ...

Corning Finger Lakes

It seems fitting that both camping and the great outdoors are nationally ... scenic biking trails, woodsy hiking trails, and fishing on Keuka Lake.


A Long Weekend in the Finger Lakes with Kids

The kids loved playing under the many waterfalls that can be accessed via the Watkins Glen gorge trail. Watkins Glen is the perfect addition to any itinerary ...


Hands-On-Nature Anarchy Zone

Ithaca Children's Garden is the first example in the US of integrating Playwork and nature-based learning into a children's garden setting. Made possible by ...


8 Awesome Things to do in the Finger Lakes with Kids this ...

Sep 21, 2022 — For convenient access to Finger Lakes activities with kids, I recommend staying along Keuka Lake, Seneca Lake or Cayuga Lake. These are the most ...


Signs of Sustainability

The Finger Lakes region is known for its natural beauty, and there's no better place to spend time outdoors. Spanning nine counties, 11 lakes, ...


Explore - Tioga County - Finger Lakes

Start your Finger Lakes Outdoor Adventure in Tioga County. ... Marvin Park has a walking/running track, playground, pavilions, picnic tables, grills, ...


The Finger Lakes Region: Its Origin And Nature O. D. Von ...

Mar 9, 2023 — Stream The Finger Lakes Region: Its Origin And Nature O. D. Von Engeln by Kris on desktop and mobile. Play over 320 million tracks for free ...


Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Finger Lakes, New York

Nature provides some great attractions on property like fishing in our lake and exploring the creek. Play a game of horseshoes, take a dip in the pool or ...


The Finger Lakes: A Tale of Two Counties

Sep 21, 2022 — While downstate New Yorkers seeking nature overtake the Catskills, this place is the playground for Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and anyone ...

Explore the Top Recommended Activities in ...

No matter what the season, the Finger Lakes is the perfect place for an outdoor adventure. Whether leisurely strolling through Cumming Nature Center in the fall 

Finger Lakes

Jun 6, 2020 — 25 Gorham Street. Canandaigua, NY 14424. (585) 394-3915. VisitFingerLakes.com. It's time to play again! Finger Lakes. Activity Guide.

Explore the Natural Playground of The Wild Center

Oct 27, 2019 — The Wild Center is one more reason to explore the Adirondacks and a terrific adventure for families. We could not wait to plan our trip and ...


Science & Learning in The Finger Lakes

Sterling Nature Center is a 1,428-acre nature center with 10 miles of hiking trails and 2 miles of Lake Ontario shore to explore. Learn More ➤. Play Cool Games ...


Finger Lakes Museum

See more about Finger Lakes Museum ... stewardship of natural resources of the Finger Lakes- ... role compost can play in turning nutrient-starved dirt




BringFido's Guide to The Finger Lakes

Apr 13, 2022 — Located along the Seneca-Cayuga Canal in Seneca Falls, this waterside dog-friendly trail is approximately 1.5 miles long and an easy hike for ...


Uniquely New York | Foundations: The Finger Lakes - PBS

23:46

This episode looks at some of the historic communities nestled in the picturesque landscapes of the state's Finger Lakes Region. Aired: 12/20/16. Rating: NR ...

PBS · Jan 25, 2017


The Ultimate Travel Guide To The Finger Lakes & What ...

Feb 7, 2023 — From the Strong National Museum of Play to the Watkins Glen State Park or the Seneca Wine Trail, there is something for everyone at Finger Lakes ...


New York's Finger Lakes region has it all: history, ...

Feb 27, 2019 — Watkins Glen State Park is famous for its beauty and perfect for a day trip or as a camping stop. The Gorge Trail is nature at its most amazing ...




Parks of the Finger Lakes region in New York

Parks of the Finger Lakes region in New York. Featuring Watkins Glen State Park, Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, Taughannock Falls State Park, ...


Finger Lakes National Forest • Nature Reserve

The Finger Lakes National Forest is a four-season recreation experience. The most popular season is autumn when the trees and pastures are ablaze with color.


The Best Wildflower Hikes Near the Finger Lakes 

There’s something about the spring that makes us want to head outside. The days are longer, the weather is warmer, and the trails are calling. After a long, cold winter indoors in the Finger Lakes, there’s nothing more tempting than conquering a sunny hike with beautiful wildflower views. Whether you’re interested in a more strenuous hike or a casual garden stroll, the Finger Lakes in the spring and summer have it covered. If you’re looking to do some research on native blooms, check out the Finger Lakes National Plant Society’s guide. The sun is shining, so lace up your boots and hit the trails!

No-Tan-Takto Trail

This trail in the Finger Lakes National Forest is the ultimate hidden gem for hikers wanting to spot native blossoms. In the spring, summer, and even into fall, the pastures and fields that line the trail are bursting with colorful, unique wildflowers. The trek is 9 miles out-and-back, but you can make it as short or long as you desire. This helpful guide provides directions on how to access this vibrant trail.

Keuka Lake Outlet Trail

This 13.3-mile out-and-back trail near Seneca Lake features waterfalls, wildflowers, and old abandoned mills. The trail is popular with both hikers and cyclists due to its wide path and mostly flat terrain. In the spring and summer, you will find beautiful purple and white wildflowers blooming where you least expect them. If you’re not looking for a long hike, you can walk to the first waterfall 2.5 miles in and turn around there.

Stid Hill Multiple Use Area Trails

This 3.7-mile loop trail is located west of Canandaigua Lake. From the trailhead, follow the blue trail markers to stay on track. In the spring and summer, the trail leads you through green trees with pops of pretty wildflowers sprinkled in along the way. This uphill trek can get pretty muddy after it rains, so try to head out after some sunshine.

Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge

Located north of Cayuga Lake, Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge is a wildlife preserve popular with birdwatchers. The area features miles of walking trails and a wildlife drive, if you’d rather stay in the car. If you’re up for a walk, take one of the trails from the Visitor Center parking area. Check out the 28 species of wildflowers that pop up during the spring and summer. Don’t forget to look up from the flowers to see the bald eagles that live on the refuge.

Taughannock Falls Gorge Trail

The gorgeous waterfall draws most visitors to this trail, but, if you ask us, the wildflowers are just as good. In the spring, gorgeous red flowers bloom in the most unexpected places along the trail. This 1.9-mile out-and-back hike is very popular in the warmer months. As a result, head out early in the morning to be able to admire the blooms in a calmer environment.

Not up for a hike today? Head to Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion State Historic Park to stroll through a variety of stunning blossoms in every color imaginable. Check out their blooming schedule to see what flowers might be blossoming during your visit.

All of the hikes featured on this list are within an hour’s drive of the luxurious Sutherland House Victorian Bed and Breakfast. After a long day of hiking, there’s nothing better than returning to your room, taking a hot shower, and snacking on a homemade cookie. In fact, you may not want to leave after relaxing on the patio overlooking the beautiful gardens. With gourmet breakfasts and hot coffee each morning, Sutherland House is the perfect home base for all your Finger Lakes adventures.