Seneca Lake

One of New York State’s 11 Finger Lakes

Seneca Lake, located 45 minutes from Rochester, is the largest and deepest of the Finger Lakes. A trip around the lake takes approximately two hours.

In Geneva, visitors can enjoy stunning lake views from the Finger Lakes Welcome Center, Seneca Lake State Park, and various restaurants and wineries on the lake’s north end. At the south end, visitors can climb the 800 stone steps through the gorge in Watkins Glen, watch an exciting race at Watkins Glen International, or take a stroll down Seneca Lake Pier. The eastern shore offers beautiful sunset views from Sampson State Park.

Other points of interest

Follow Rt. 14 just three miles south and visit Montour Falls, home to several more waterfalls, including one of the most photographed—Shequaga Falls.

Head about eight minutes south of town to Havana Glen to explore a much smaller gorge with an extraordinary fall—a great swimming hole!

Seneca Lake has more wineries than any other Finger Lake. Follow the wine trail!

Take a hike through Finger Lakes National Forest and pick wild blueberries for free from a 5-acre managed patch. 

You can swim and relax at Sampson State Park and Lodi Point State Park, hike the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail between Seneca and Keuka Lakes or visit the Kashong Conservation Area.

The Finger Lakes region is a diverse and picturesque area located south-southeast of Rochester. It encompasses cities, villages, farmland, and 11 lakes, making it a versatile tourist destination. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, biking, and dining while taking in the natural beauty of the lakes. They can take a leisurely lakeside stroll or embark on a challenging hike along scenic hilltops or deep into the region’s unique waterfall gorges.

What is your favorite thing to do on Seneca Lake?

I’d love to hear from you—please reach out and share your thoughts and experiences.