Watkins Glen State Park is located in the heart of the small town of Watkins Glen, at the southern tip of Seneca Lake. The glen is two miles long—perfect for a day trip.
Though the park features a well-maintained walking path, it’s not an easy stroll, nor is it accessible. The gorge trail can be wet with spray (wear good walking shoes/boots and bring a pair to change into), and the majority of the walk is up 800 rock stairs if you go the entire length. The elevation rise from the Main Entrance to the Upper Entrance is 520 feet.
That said, it’s also one of the most transcending, awe-inspiring, and wondrous displays of nature’s beauty on Earth!
Plan your visit to Watkins Glen State Park
Check the website when planning your trip for the most current trail, pool, and shuttle information, or call the park office at (607) 535-4511.
TIP: The park is often crowded during peak times, with parking and walking space at a premium. Plan to arrive early in the morning or visit on a weekday for more elbow room and picturesque views within the gorge.
On a hot day, the gorge is refreshingly cool, and there are a few places where you can dip your hand (or head!) in a waterfall. Here’s a taste of what you’ll experience walking through the gorge.
Watkins Glen Gorge Trail
Several points of interest along the trail are marked with signs. This is particularly helpful for figuring out where exactly you are on the trail map and how much further you have to go! These include Sentry Bridge, Cavern Cascade, Glen Cathedral, Central Cascade, Rainbow Falls, and Mile Point Bridge.
Swimming
There is absolutely no swimming in the gorge. Rather, they have an amazing pool that is open from mid-June through Labor Day. If swimming is high on your list of must-do activities, call the park office at (607) 535-4511 to ensure the pool is open that day.
More information about Watkins Glen State Park
Cost: There is a per-vehicle fee from roughly May to October, and it is free off-season. However, the Gorge Trail is closed from Nov. 1 to May 20 and will only be closed once all safety concerns have been addressed.
Located in Watkins Glen, roughly 90 minutes / 80 miles from Rochester
Get directions to the Main Parking Lot, South Parking Lot, or Upper Parking Lot
More information: nysparks.com
Watkins Glen State Park Shuttle
There is a $5 cash-only shuttle that serves all 3 parking lots in season. A good way to remember the shuttle hours is this: weekends only from Memorial Day to Independence Day, then daily until Labor Day, and again weekends only until mid-October.
Many people leave their cash in the car. If you have the opportunity, treat someone less prepared for a shuttle ride. It is a priceless gift to someone who could be exhausted and frustrated, especially if they have small children in tow!
Explore More
The heart of the village of Watkins Glen is the 1.5-mile-long gorge, a truly breathtaking and awe-inspiring showcase of nature’s beauty.
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Instead of being an escape, I see these places as opportunities that encourage us to transcend space, time, and our state of mind.
What do you love most about Watkins Glen State Park?
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People often ask me if I get free access to places while exploring. The answer is no unless I’m invited to previews or granted behind-the-scenes access as part of my media role. Generally, I don’t mention my project, Day Trips Around Rochester, NY, because I want the same experience you would have. I create and share content simply because it brings me joy. I would appreciate your support—a cup of coffee or two to help fuel future field trips—if you have found valuable information here that has helped you explore the Rochester area.
