Watkins Glen | Schuyler County 2024 Travel Guide

Watkins Glen

Find Your Adventure Here

SANCTUARY

In Watkins Glen, you’ll find a sanctuary for rescued farm animals — and for a day, it can be yours, too. Take a guided tour to meet our animal residents and hear their stories of resilience. Make an impact by volunteering. Enjoy a delicious plant-based meal at our new cafe, The Kitchen at Farm Sanctuary. Plus, browse our Sanctuary Shop for clothing, goodies, and sustainable gifts. Interested in a stay? Book one of our charming tiny houses or cabins! This

Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen and Schuyler County are located on the southern shore of beautiful Seneca Lake in the heart of New York's incredible Finger Lakes Region. Our area is a premier destination for outdoor adventure, world-class wine, beer, spirits, and adrenaline-pumping racing. Unique, one-of-a-kind experiences are our specialty and you will never be disappointed with the beautiful sights, flavors, and people you will meet along the way!

If you're planning a trip to the Finger Lakes and searching for lodging, dining, things to do, wineries, breweries, distilleries, and beyond visit ExploreWatkinsGlen.com for more info!

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US AT THE GLEN IN 2024! From racing to wine festivals, there are many events to experience at Watkins Glen International. Visit theglen.com to explore our events in 2024.

WATKINS GLEN STATE PARK CLUTE MEMORIAL PARK

Wander

Your Outdoor Adventure Awaits!

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1009 N. Franklin St., Watkins Glen, NY 14891

Watkins Glen State Park is the most famous of the Finger Lakes State Parks, with a reputation for leaving visitors spellbound.

THE GORGE TRAIL

Boasts 19 waterfalls in less than 2 miles, with the path winding over and under waterfalls and through the cascading spray of water. On this trail, you’ll experience climbing winding staircases and through cool stone caverns! The Gorge Trail is open seasonally from mid-May to early November. Check the park’s website for current conditions and trail openings.

Trail Length: 1.9 mi | 3.05 km Moderate | Slippery Rocks | Stone Path | Steps Seasons (Late Spring, Summer, Fall)

SOUTH RIM TRAIL

Overlooking the gorge, open year-round. Enjoy tent and trailer camping at the Six Nations Campground, a playground, a suspension bridge over the gorge, an Olympic-size swimming pool, and picnic facilities.

Trail Length: 2.6 mi | 4.18 km Moderate | Unpaved | Steps Seasons (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)

NORTH RIM TRAIL

Characterized by its long staircase, can be accessed from the park’s main entrance. The North Rim Trail highlights some beautiful vistas of Glen Creek below.

Trail Length: 2.6 mi | 4.18 km Moderate | Unpaved | Steps Seasons (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)

586 East 4th Street, Watkins Glen, NY 14891

Provides 35 acres of lakeside family recreational fun! Located on the southern tips of Seneca Lake, the sunset views from these shores are unparalleled. Visitors can enjoy the dog-friendly beach, splash pad, picnic areas, fishing, kayaking, and scenic walks along the newly completed 1-mile walking path.

CATHARINE VALLEY TRAIL

Experience the glacially carved valley South of Seneca Lake on this year-round, pedestrianfriendly, easy path. Following abandoned railroad and canal towpath corridors, the trail passes through a variety of wildlife habitats. This trail and the adjoining Catharine Creek Wildlife Management Area are an important area for birding.

Trail Length – 6mi | 9.66km

Easy | Stone-Dust Trail

Seasons (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)

AUNT SARAH’S FALLS

GPS coordinates: N 42.35185 / W 76.85597

This roadside fall is a cascading beauty— perfect for a selfie.

What you need to know: A roadside pull-off is available for a safe place to park but please be careful of traffic when crossing the road. These falls can also be accessed off of the northern portion of the Catharine Valley Trail between Montour Falls and Watkins Glen.

Easy Hike

Seasons (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)

Directions: From the village of Watkins Glen, take NY-14 South and the waterfall will appear on your right just before rounding the bend into the Village of Montour Falls. There is parking on the left side of NY-14, directly across from Aunt Sarah’s Falls.

109 S Genesee St, Montour Falls, NY 14865

Located in the heart of the Village of Montour Falls this exceptional 165-foot-tall waterfall known as “Hallmark Falls,” as popularized by a Hallmark Channel Mystery Series.

117 East Catlin Street, Montour Falls, NY 14865

Deckertown Falls is one of the lesser-known waterfalls in the area, but definitely a gem! It’s an easy walk located on the outskirts of the Village of Montour Falls.

Trail Length: 0.3 mi | 0.48km Moderate Hike

What you need to know: Visible from just beyond the parking area, this waterfall is located on the outskirts of the Village of Montour Falls. From the path, you can see three chute-like cascades, a total of more than 50 feet high.

SHEQUAGA FALLS

Paved Side Walks | Picnic Area Seasons (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)

DECKERTOWN FALLS

Aunt Sarah’s Falls

Shequaga Falls

Watkins Glen State Park

HAVANA GLEN PARK and EAGLE CLIFF FALLS

135 Havana Glen Road, Montour Falls, NY 14865

A stone amphitheater with a 41 ft high waterfall greets you at the end of a short scenic hike. The park contains various species of rare native New York State plants and has been classified as an important area for birding, as over 100 species have been documented here. McClure Creek, the source of Eagle Cliff Falls, has been designated a trout stream and is thus protected to allow for migratory fish from Seneca Lake to safely spawn.

Eagle Cliff Falls Trail Length: 0.3 mi | 0.48km Moderate Hike Seasons (Summer, Fall)

What you need to know: There is a fee to enter this municipal park.

SUGAR HILL STATE FOREST

(Six Nations Recreation Trail System)

Just a short drive west of the Village of Watkins Glen, Sugar Hill State Forest expands over 9,000 acres for camping (RV, tent, and a few lean-tos), hiking, picnicking, pavilions, horseback riding, hunting, and trapping. There is also cross-country skiing, birding, and fishing at Spencer Pond.

Unpaved Trails | Horseback Riding | Snowmobiling Seasons (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)

TWIN FALLS (Templar Falls) in SUGAR HILL STATE FOREST

GPS coordinates: N 42.36880 / W 76.958697

Located off the beaten path in the Sugar Hill State Forest, visit this waterfall and take advantage of great hiking simultaneously! Twin Falls is among the smallest waterfalls in the area, but it is easy to reach. This trail is a great option to enjoy the peace of our region.

FINGER LAKES NATIONAL FOREST

Ranger Station Address - 5218 NY-414, Hector, NY 14841

Being the only National Forest in New York State and one of only three in the Northeast, this diverse wilderness area offers over 16,000 acres to explore. With miles of interconnecting trails, hiking experiences vary widely including gorges, ravines, pastures, and woodland that are ideal for birding, wildlife watching, and tent camping. Start your visit at the Hector Ranger Station (5218 NY 414, Hector, NY 14841) for maps and helpful information.

NOTABLE TRAILS

Burnt Hill Trail

Combining forest and open fields the spectacular views from this trail are unparalleled.

Trail Length: 3.8 mi | 6.12 km Easy | Unpaved |Forest Views | Kid Friendly | Dogs on Leash

Interloken Trail

This trail travels the length of the Finger Lakes National Forrest. Perfect for backpacking, camping, and fishing.

HECTOR FALLS

GPS coordinates: N 42.41801 /

What you need to know: The trails in the Sugar Hill State Forest are a mecca for equestrian riders. Please be courteous if you come across a horse and rider. Announce your presence from a distance and step safely off the trail to allow them to pass.

Directions: Park alongside Templar Road near the signs for the Finger Lakes Trail. Follow the short trail Eastward and you’ll come to a creek. Cross the shallow water to reach the other side where you’ll see a picnic table and rustic paths leading to the upper and lower falls to your right. Be careful crossing the creek as the rocks can be slippery. The water is usually shallow, but in case of recent rain, do not cross if the water is high. If you decide not to cross the creek, you can still enjoy both falls from above on an unmarked trail to the right before the creek. Please note, that the path used to access the lower falls involves a makeshift rope system. Please use caution.

THE SUGAR HILL FIRE TOWER RECREATION AREA

3361 Tower Hill Rd, Watkins Glen, NY 14891

This tower is listed on the National Historic Register, scale the 75-foot tower for sweeping 15-mile views. This recreation area is a great camping and picnic area too!

On the east side of Seneca Lake, this large, broad waterfall is actually composed of several drops. While it is possible to see some of it from the road, its majestic beauty is best enjoyed while cruising on Seneca Lake.

What you need to know: If stopping to view the falls please obey all traffic signs and be extremely cautious of vehicle traffic as the falls are on a heavily trafficked road. These falls are best viewed from a boat on the lake.

EXCELSIOR GLEN

GPS coordinates: (Parking and Trailhead) 42.39112,

particular waterfall is somewhat hidden in plain sight. The trailhead is located right alongside Route 414, just as it bends around the south end of Seneca Lake. Excelsior Glen is actually home to five waterfalls, all relatively narrow cascades. This is a completely undeveloped glen, so please use caution.

What you need to know: Be aware this trailhead may be difficult to find – look for the Finger Lakes Trail marker sign. This trail is also on private land generously made available to the public through easements. Please be respectful and stay on the marked trail.

Twin Falls Trail Length: 0.7 mi | 1.12 km Moderate | Slippery Rocks and Uneven Surfaces

Eagle Cliff Falls, Havana Glen

Voyage Dive into Adventure

Water Activities Are Abundant

SENECA LAKE

Leave your cares behind as you dip your toes into our pristine sapphire waters! Be soothed by the sounds of water lapping against a pebble shoreline. Seneca Lake is waiting for you.

Scenic Boat Tours: Captain Bill’s Seneca Lake Cruises, Seneca Sailing Adventures on the True Love Schooner, Falling Waters Boat Tours, and Finger Lakes Cycle Boats.

Swimming: You can swim in Seneca Lake at Clute Memorial Park in Watkins Glen or Smith Park in Hector. Both parks are open seasonally, with lifeguards on duty. Call ahead for availability.

Boat Rentals: Nothing beats cruising the cool blue waters of Seneca Lake. Rent a boat from Anchor Inn and Marina and enjoy a day on the water.

Kayaking & Paddle Boarding: There’s nothing more serene than gliding through the water in a kayak or a paddleboard. Rent one from Seneca Lake Kayak or Summit To Stream Adventures or take a scenic tour to view the painted cliffs and Hector Falls from the water.

Guided Fishing Adventures*: Whether it be angling for fish in the deep cold water of Seneca Lake or fly-fishing in the waters of Catharine Creek, Summit to Stream Adventures has your adventures covered.

and a quiet paddle in a kayak. This area hosts an observation deck, hiking trails, and boat launches (no power boats) that can be used specifically for kayaks and canoes.

Birding Watching | Kayaking | Hiking | Fishing*

CATHARINE CREEK

Catharine Creek is a public fishing stream renowned for its annual migration of wild rainbow trout.

Birding Watching | Fishing*

WANETA AND LAMOKA LAKES

These lakes are connected by a half-mile-long channel that hosts a boat launch. The lakes are great for some of the best fishing year-round, including ice fishing!

Largemouth Bass | Smallmouth Bass | Chain Pickerel | Yellow Perch Bluegill | Pumpkinseed | Black Crappie | Rock Bass |Brown Bullhead Golden Shiner | White Sucker | Common Carp

* Most people over the age of 16 fishing in New York need a New York State Fishing License. Check out the DEC site for specifics www.dec.ny.gov/permits/6091.html Boating | Kayaking | Paddle

Boarding | Bird Watching | Fishing*

Winter transforms Waneta and Lamoka lakes into frozen landscapes, inviting adventurers to experience

tradition of ice fishing!

ExperienceImmerse Yourself in a New Adventure

Unforgettable Experiences at our wineries and craft beverage

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 Winery Tours with a Twist—Guided tours offer a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the wineries while learning about the history, culture, and craftsmanship behind the wines of the area, but why not try something a little different? Some wineries offer intimate private tours, others have expansive vineyard hiking trails, and a few even have a full disc golf course!

The ‘Spirit” of the Area—Take an epic tour of a barrelhouse, marvel at modern distilling methods, and embark on a rewarding journey of making your own spirits by creating unique flavors and expressions that reflect your taste and creativity.

Crafting Memories, One Sip at a Time—Whether you're interested in tasting unique craft beers, learning about the brewing process, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, there are plenty of fun experiences to enjoy.

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Wine and WHAT? A Match Made in Flavor Heaven!—Many wineries offer unique pairings such as pickles, popcorn, BBQ, chocolate, and more! Mix and match to see what surprising combinations emerge. You might discover new flavor profiles and palate-pleasing matches that you hadn't considered before.

Scenic Sips—Lakeside Drives and Tasting Delights—Many wineries and breweries in the Watkins Glen area boast stunning views of Seneca Lake from their tasting rooms or outdoor patios. Enjoy wine or beer tastings while taking in the panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding vineyards.

Call ahead to discuss reservations, timing, options for walk-ins, and recommendations ideal for party size. Please plan ahead and taste responsibly, hire one of our local transportation companies and leave the driving to the experts. )

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Experience Farm Life . . .

 Sample Delicious Local Cheese and Ice Cream at Local Creameries: Visit a family-owned and operated dairy farm and enjoy a delightful tasting experience of fresh and delicious cheeses and ice cream in their onfarm creamery. You can even try a cheese or ice cream flight—sampling multiple flavors at once!

 Pick Some Produce (when they’re in season, of course): You can find several farms and orchards that offer "you-pick" produce experiences, especially during the growing season. The bounty of the area includes grapes, berries, apples, pumpkins, and vegetables. Checking online resources, or contacting nearby farms directly to inquire about their offerings and schedules is highly suggested. Keep in mind that availability may be subject to change, so it's a good idea to plan your visit and confirm details with the farm before heading out.

 Cuddle with Cows and Take a Behind-the-Scenes Tour of a Working Dairy Farm: Walk in a farmer's shoes and learn how a dairy farm is run by milking a cow, and making cheese and ice cream. Here you can even cuddle a cow. This one-of-a-kind hands-on experience gets you up and close to these gentle creatures by resting against and hanging out with them in a controlled and safe space.

 Enjoy an Equine Trail Riding Adventure: If you're looking for a memorable outdoor adventure in the Watkins Glen area, consider booking a horseback riding tour with Painted Bar Stables. It's a great family-friendly way to experience the natural beauty of the region from a unique and scenic perspective. Take advantage of trail rides through vineyards, the Finger Lakes National Forest, and even trail rides during a full moon! All rides are by reservation only, so plan ahead and check out their website for availability. paintedbarstables.com

 Farm Sanctuary—The rolling green pastures of Farm Sanctuary’s 275-acre New York shelter are home to more than 600 rescued cows, pigs, turkeys, and other farm animals. Visit with the animals and learn their stories of struggle and survival against all odds. It gives the public insight into the realities farm animals face in the modern food system. farmsanctuary.org/the-sanctuaries/watkins-glen-ny

. . . Museums & History

 International Motor Racing Research Center Located in Watkins Glen, this 5,000-square-foot facility houses a reading room, film room, exhibits, and worldwide racing archives. Famous race drivers periodically give talks. This is a can’t-miss for race fans. racingarchives.org

 Corning Museum of Glass (CMoG)—The world’s foremost museum dedicated to the art, history, and science of glass! The museum’s collection includes ancient glass artifacts from around the world, as well as contemporary glass art created by renowned artists. Visitors can explore a wide range of glassmaking techniques, from ancient methods to modern innovations, through the museum’s exhibits, demonstrations, and hands-on experiences. Don’t forget to check out the extensive gift shop! cmog.org

 The Rockwell Museum A Smithsonian Affiliate, located in Corning, New York, is known for its extensive collection of American art. The museum originally focused on the art of the American West. However, its collection has expanded over time to encompass a broader range of American art, including pieces from Native American cultures, contemporary works, and more. rockwellmuseum.org

 Glenn H. Curtiss Museum Curtiss was a pioneer in aviation and motorcycling, and a key figure in the early development of aviation. This museum showcases a wide range of artifacts related to Curtiss’s life and work, including aircraft, motorcycles, bicycles, and engines. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing Curtiss’s role in aviation history, his rivalry with the Wright brothers, and his impact on early aviation technology. glennhcurtissmuseum.org

 Learn about local history at the Brick Tavern Museum: This local history museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the heritage of Schuyler County and the surrounding region. The museum is housed in a historic building known as the Brick Tavern, which dates back to the early 19th century and served as a stagecoach stop, tavern, and residence. This museum features exhibits that explore various aspects of Schuyler County’s history, including its Native American heritage, early settlement, agriculture, industry, and social life—admission is free. schuylerhistory.org

Photo courtesy of Farm Sanctuary

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Ride

Where Every Turn is an Adventure

Watkins Glen—A Town Built on Speed

Watkins Glen is synonymous with auto racing, earning a place in the history books in October 1948 when the first post-World War II road race in America ran through the Village streets, around the spectacular gorge in Watkins Glen State Park, and over surrounding farmland. It marked the dawn of American sports car racing and featured an eclectic mix of race cars. Watkins Glen continued to host the Grand Prix on area public roads from 1948 to 1952 until the first permanent circuit, now known as Watkins Glen International was constructed on County Route 16 in the Town of Dix in 1956.

Located just 4 miles from downtown Watkins Glen, racing enthusiasts can experience racing royalty with NASCAR, IMSA, and US Vintage Grand Prix racing at the famed Watkins Glen International. Thanks to the Drive the Glen experience, fans can test the power under their own vehicle’s hood when they take to the track themselves. Visit TheGlen.com for race schedules and to book a drive on the track!

SCENIC DRIVES

Watkins Glen To Corning Museum Of Glass (20 Miles | 27 Minutes)

Start by driving South on Franklin Street in Watkins Glen, then turn right onto NY-414 S. Travel on NY-414 S. for 20 miles taking in the sloping hills, farm fields, and natural spaces along the route. Once within the Corning City limits, you will find the Corning Museum of Glass Welcome Center (121 Center Way, Corning, NY 14830) where you can find parking. This is where you can also take a shuttle to and from Market Street and the Rockwell Museum of Western Art in downtown Corning for some shopping, restaurants, and sightseeing.

Watkins Glen to Glenn H. Curtis Museum (20 miles | 28 minutes)

DRIVE THE ORIGINAL GRAND PRIX COURSE

Historic Grand Prix Circuit (6.6 miles | 12 minutes)

The 6.6-mile circuit ran through the village streets, starting and ending in front of the Schuyler County Courthouse. You can drive the original Grand Prix course in your own vehicle, it's all on public roads! Experience the twists and turns as you embody a race car driver from the 1948 - 1952 road races. This route is well marked with signage – to learn more, stop by the International Motor Racing Research Center (610 S Decatur St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891) for a detailed map of the course and some astonishing local history. racingarchives.org

From the center of Watkins Glen start by getting onto E. 4th St. This route takes you up the hill and your next turn will be a slight right onto County Road 28/Lee Street. A mile up the road, bear to the left onto County Route 23. You will be on this route for about 8 miles. At the intersection of County Route 23 and NY-226, take a right then an immediate left to stay on County Route 23. You will travel through the town of Tyrone. You will cross between Waneta and Lamoka lakes. Once past the lakes, you will come to a “T” in the road, take a left onto Wayne Road and travel down the hill into Hammondsport, NY. At the bottom of the hill take a left onto NY-54 S. Once on this road the Glenn H. Curtis Museum (8419 NY-54, Hammondsport, NY 14840) will be 1-mile down on your right. Look for the large plane parked out front of the museum!

Seneca Lake Scenic Byway (Seneca Lake East) (19 miles | 22 minutes)

The Byway begins at Clute Park in Watkins Glen, NY, and follows Route 414 north for 19 miles, currently ending in the Village of Lodi, NY. senecalakescenicbyway.com

Illustration courtesy Robert Gillespie

• AAA FOUR-DIAMOND ACCOMMODATIONS

• LUXURIOUS GUEST ROOMS & SUITES

• BALCONIES WITH WATER VIEWS

• FINE & CASUAL DINING ON PREMISE

• INDOOR SWIMMING POOL WITH HOT TUB

• STATE OF THE ART FITNESS CENTER

• OUTDOOR DINING OVERLOOKING SENECA LAKE

• OUTDOOR FIREPITS

• WALKING DISTANCE TO VILLAGE & STATE PARK

• TRANSIENT BOAT DOCK

• PRIVATE VENUES FOR MEETINGS & SOCIAL EVENTS Voted “America’s Best Waterfront Hotel” - USA Today Reader’s Choice

Fun things to try!

This iconic park is a requirement of any visit to the Finger Lakes. For generations, it has offered a breathtaking walking experience of cliffs and waterfalls winding through a deep chasm. Within less than 2 miles, the A visit to Seneca Lake is not complete without stopping at Captain Bill’s. From lunch and dinner cruises to hour-long sightseeing cruises, there is an on-water option for you on Seneca Lake Watkins Glen International (Drive the

Retrace the Race by Driving the Original Grand Prix Circuit

The first post-World War II American road race was held in Watkins Glen, NY on October 2, 1948. The 6.6-mile circuit runs through the village streets, starting and ending in front of the Schuyler County Court House. You can take your own car around the old race

famous track offers racing buffs the ultimate high-octane family-friendly racing experience. Visitors can even drive their own vehicles around the race circuit in a Watkins Glen International Drive the Glen experience.

A tour of the Drivers Walk of Fame is a walk through racing history. The Walk of Fame honors drivers from all classes of racing with sidewalk markers bearing their names. The markers are located along the entire length of Franklin Street and part of 4th Street in the Village of Watkins Glen. Stop by the International Motor Racing and Research Center for a listing of

of Seneca Lake offers striking scenery, tranquil marshes, and open waters—perfect for a kayak or paddleboard! Seneca Lake Kayak and Summit to Stream have got you covered with rentals and guided tours! senecalakekayak .com summittostream.com

Sugar Hill Fire Tower

Shequaga Falls

Watkins Glen

Seneca Harbor Park

Signature Area Events

Albany: 3.5 hours / 205 miles

Binghamton: 1.5 hours / 78 miles

Bu alo: 2.5 hours / 146 miles

Ithaca: .75 hours / 24 miles

New York City: 4.5 hours / 253 miles

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Rochester: 1.5 hours / 84 miles

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Watertown: 2.5 hours / 153 miles

Boston, MA: 6 hours / 355 miles

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Scranton, PA: 2.5 hours / 125 miles

Washington, DC: 5.5 hours / 304 miles Montreal, QC, Canada: 5.5 hours / 333 miles / 536 kilometers Niagara Falls, ON, Canada: 2.75 hours / 160 miles / 257 kilometers