Hiking Destinations: Finger Lakes Region - New York

Glacial lakes, sheer-walled gorges, and an astonishing density of waterfalls make New York’s Finger Lakes a hiker’s dream. Stone stairways and rim paths wind through mossy canyons one moment and along sunlit vineyard hillsides the next. From casual family strolls to half-day canyon loops, the region’s trails pack huge scenery into approachable distances. Come for the falls and stay for the quiet forests, birdlife, and four-season beauty.

This guide highlights 20 popular hikes spread across state parks, forests, and local preserves—each showcasing a different facet of the Finger Lakes. Expect cool spray in shadowed glens, lake-top overlooks, and historic stonework built by the CCC. Trails are generally well marked, but conditions change with weather and seasons. Lace up and discover why this region is synonymous with gorge-geology wonder.

1. GORGE TRAIL (WATKINS GLEN SP)

New York’s most iconic gorge walk threads behind, beside, and even under waterfalls as it passes through 19 cascades. Hand-cut stone bridges and tunnels cling to sculpted shale walls. Expect mist, rainbows, and nonstop photo ops. It’s the Finger Lakes hike everyone should do at least once.

2. TAUGHANNOCK FALLS GORGE TRAIL (TAUGHANNOCK FALLS SP)

An easy, mostly flat path leads to a viewpoint beneath a 215-foot free-falling waterfall—higher than Niagara’s American Falls. Towering amphitheater walls frame the plunge pool. Spring and after heavy rains offer the biggest flow. It’s a family-friendly classic with colossal payoff.

3. GORGE & RIM LOOP TO LUCIFER FALLS (ROBERT H. TREMAN SP)

Stone staircases and cliff-edge railings guide you through Enfield Glen to the dramatic 115-foot Lucifer Falls. The loop pairs shady gorge coolness with sunny rim views. Historic CCC work adds character at every turn. A top pick for a half-day canyon adventure near Ithaca.

4. BUTTERMILK FALLS GORGE & RIM LOOP (BUTTERMILK FALLS SP)

Cascades tumble through sculpted pools beneath hemlock and hardwood canopy. Climb the stone steps beside the namesake falls, then return along the airy rim. Summer brings swimming at the base (when lifeguarded). Short, steep, and endlessly scenic.

5. LETCHWORTH GORGE TRAIL (LETCHWORTH SP)

Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” this trail strings together overlooks of the Genesee River’s three famous falls. Expect big vistas, deep forests, and historic bridges. Wildflowers pop in spring; foliage blazes in fall. A bucket-list outing on the region’s western edge.

6. FILLMORE GLEN GORGE TRAIL (FILLMORE GLEN SP)

Narrow canyon walls, delicate veils, and stone footpaths define this quietly spectacular gorge. The gorge trail reveals multiple falls in quick succession. Shady microclimates keep it cool in midsummer. It’s a peaceful counterpart to the busier parks near Ithaca.

7. STONY BROOK GORGE TRAIL (STONY BROOK SP)

Three main waterfalls anchor this photogenic gorge near Dansville. Smooth shale ledges and shallow pools invite lingering (respect closures and conditions). The route is short and family-friendly with classic CCC stonework. Arrive early on hot days—this one’s popular.

8. BLUFF TRAIL (CHIMNEY BLUFFS SP)

Dramatic drumlin-carved clay pinnacles tower over Lake Ontario’s blue expanse. The bluff-top path offers coastal-style views rare in inland New York. Wind and waves constantly reshape the landscape. Stay behind fences and keep to the marked trail—the cliffs are fragile.

9. GREEN LAKES & ROUND LAKE LOOP (GREEN LAKES SP)

Cirques of rare meromictic lakes glow turquoise along this flat, forested path. Boardwalks and shoreline tread offer constant water views. Birdlife is excellent year-round. It’s an easy, scenic loop perfect for families and runners alike.

10. CLIFF & LONG TRAIL LOOP (CLARK RESERVATION SP)

Glacial plunge-pool geology steals the show at this compact park just outside Syracuse. Short, rocky loops deliver outsized overlooks. Spring ephemerals and fall colors shine here. A great add-on stop when traveling the region’s northern tier.

11. KEUKA OUTLET TRAIL (PENN YAN ↔ DRESDEN)

A gentle rail-trail follows the historic outlet between Keuka and Seneca Lakes. Expect canal ruins, old mills, small falls, and steady shade. Bike, jog, or stroll as far as you like. It’s a relaxed way to pair history with waterside scenery.

12. INTERLOKEN TRAIL (FINGER LAKES NF)

Traverse open pastures, oak woods, and kettle ponds on the region’s only national forest long trail. Wildflowers and birdsong accompany rolling miles. Backpackers can make it an easy overnight. Big-sky farm-and-forest vibes between Cayuga and Seneca.

13. CASCADILLA GORGE TRAIL (ITHACA)

Right in the city, stone steps climb through a tight gorge packed with photogenic drops. Ivy-cloaked walls and arched bridges give it old-world charm. Seasonal closures may apply—check status. A quick, unforgettable link between downtown and Cornell’s campus.

14. FALL CREEK GORGE / STEWART AVE LOOP (ITHACA)

Short urban-nature paths visit pulsing falls and airy bridges over a deep chasm. Views of Ithaca Falls and the historic hydro station add interest. Spray and rainbows are common after storms. It’s a powerful slice of gorge country within city limits.

15. GRIMES GLEN TRAIL (NAPLES)

A shallow creek walk leads to twin waterfalls tucked in a narrow shale hallway. Expect wet feet and polished rock—grippy footwear helps. Summer shade makes it a beloved local cool-down. Compact, adventurous, and wildly photogenic.

16. CANADICE LAKE TRAIL (HEMLOCK–CANADICE SF)

Remote, protected shorelines offer quiet miles free of development. Views open to pristine water hemmed by steep forested hills. The grade is gentle, perfect for long conversational walks. Wilderness vibes just minutes from small lake towns.

17. BRISTOL HILLS BRANCH (FINGER LAKES TRAIL SYSTEM)

Roll along vineyard slopes, hardwood ridges, and farm country south of Canandaigua. Wayfinding is solid, with white blazes and occasional road connectors. Do a short out-and-back or tackle a bigger section. Classic Finger Lakes hill-and-hollow hiking.

18. ABBOTT LOOP (DANBY SF)

This rugged, orange-blazed loop mixes creek hollows with airy ridge walking near Ithaca. Expect roots, rocks, and rewarding viewpoints. It feels wilder than its mileage suggests. A favorite training loop for local trail hikers.

19. HIGHLAND FOREST MAIN TRAIL (ONONDAGA CO. PARK)

Old-growth pockets, rolling hills, and classic North Country forest define this well-signed loop network. Winter brings groomed routes for snowshoeing. In fall, the maples are spectacular. A versatile destination just north of the core lake chain.

20. TINKER FALLS VIA NORTH COUNTRY TRAIL (LABRADOR HOLLOW UNIQUE AREA)

A short approach reaches a lovely curtain-style waterfall spilling over a broad rock lip. Careful steps lead behind the falls for a misty view. Continue to nearby Jones Hill for big-sky panoramas. Easy access, high reward, and four-season charm.

From world-famous gorge walks to quiet lakeshore rambles, the Finger Lakes pack astonishing scenery into short drives and approachable trails. Water shapes nearly every mile here—carving canyons, feeding forests, and setting the soundtrack for your hike. Choose a glen, follow the spray, and let New York’s waterfall country do the rest.