Waterfalls, Wineries, and the Amish Heart of the Finger Lakes Text by: Emily Fagan Photos by: Emily and Mark Fagan
The Finger Lakes are a collection of long, narrow lakes in upstate New York that lie side-by-side, like fingers on a hand, glistening in the sun. Known for their natural beauty and endless recreational opportunities, they are a beloved destination, and we were eager to take our RV there. From charming waterfront towns to glorious hiking trails to elegant wineries to stunning waterfalls, we found there is no shortage of fun things to do. Watkins Glen Seneca Lake, the largest and deepest of the Finger Lakes, is in the heart of this region, and at its far southern shore is one of the most spectacular canyons we’ve ever seen: Watkins Glen. Pencil thin Glen Creek follows an exquisite path through craggy rock walls, filling beautiful turquoise pools and pouring down waterfalls on its way. The Gorge Trail is a one-mile hike alongside the creek that is utterly breathtaking at every turn. We arrived in the rain and intermittent downpours continued throughout our visit. But it turned out that a warm and rainy summer day may be the best way to see this heavenly oasis
because Watkins Glen is all about waterfalls. The water was flowing fast, and in some places the very rocks themselves seemed to be weeping. Cavern Cascade is a tall and thin waterfall that flows right over the trail, creating a watery tunnel that hikers can walk under. Further on, Rainbow Falls creates a jaw-dropping vista as a myriad of falls spill from one aquamarine pool into the next, all framed by vivid green leaves and dark cliffs. Taughannock Falls and Ithaca Falls Not to be outdone by the gorgeous waterfalls on Seneca Lake, neighboring Cayuga Lake boasts the tallest single drop waterfall east of the Rockies: Taughannock Falls. The water plunges 215 feet, nearly 50 feet more than Niagra Falls. An ideal viewing area opposite this majestic waterfall gives visitors a full top-to-bottom view framed by trees. We visited in mid-summer when the trees were green, but an autumn visit would frame this outstanding view in gold and red. The mile long Rim Trail encircles the gorge and takes in thrilling views along the way. At the far southern tip of Cayuga Lake, Ithaca Falls is the focal point of the Ithaca Falls Natural
Watkins Glen in the rain.
The rain doesn’t stop visitors to Watkins Glen.
WATERFALLS, WINERIES, AND THE AMISH
COAST TO COAST MAGAZINE SUMMER 2023 | 10
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