Gorge Trail Watkins Glen State Park
Explore a magical gorge with 19 waterfalls, carved by time and water, featuring stunning stone bridges and tunnels.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light.
Gorge Trail Watkins Glen State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a magical gorge with 19 waterfalls, carved by time and water, featuring stunning stone bridges and tunnels.
"This is one of the most magical walks I have been anywhere."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Slippery rocks and over 800 steps! Good grip is essential.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated on this ~2-hour hike. Pack a picnic for a longer stay.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Gorge Trail
Main Gorge
A 1.5-mile path winding past 19 stunning waterfalls and through narrow, moss-covered gorges.
Rainbow Falls
Gorge Trail
The most iconic waterfall, often creating a rainbow in the mist. A true natural masterpiece.
Cavern Cascade
Gorge Trail
A unique waterfall you can walk behind, offering a truly immersive experience.
Stone Bridges and Tunnels
Gorge Trail
Intricate stone bridges and tunnels carved into the gorge walls add to the trail's enchanting atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Early Bird Gets the Waterfall
Stairway to Heaven (and Sore Calves)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Slippery rocks and over 800 steps! Good grip is essential.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated on this ~2-hour hike. Pack a picnic for a longer stay.
⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Experience the gorge in peace before the masses arrive.
🚗 Parking & Entrances
Main entrance parking fills fast. Consider South or Upper entrances.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Slippery rocks and over 800 steps! Good grip is essential.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated on this ~2-hour hike. Pack a picnic for a longer stay.
⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Experience the gorge in peace before the masses arrive.
🚗 Parking & Entrances
Main entrance parking fills fast. Consider South or Upper entrances.
📸 Camera Ready!
Every corner is a photo op! Capture the waterfalls and unique formations.
🚫 No Dogs on Gorge Trail
Dogs are allowed on the Rim Trail, but not the main Gorge Trail.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Watkins Glen State Park for its breathtaking gorge and numerous waterfalls, describing it as a magical and inspiring natural wonder. While the extensive stairs and potential for slippery conditions are noted, most agree the effort is well worth the stunning views. Some visitors mention construction impacting trail access, but the overall experience remains highly recommended.
"This is a beautiful gorge with waterfalls I have been to many times. Peaceful and serene. Of course it gets crowded but there is always an opportunity to take great photos. Currently there is construction going on in the main north entrance and so some part of the gorge trail cannot be seen. Keep in mind that there is a lot of steps so be aware of your own limitations. But not that far. South entrance might be easier. Nice gift shop. Main entrance parking lot can get full but there is one across the street."
An Pan
"Beautiful Gorge with pleasant views of pools and waterfalls. We visit it in the middle of September, weather was nice not too hot. park in the middle section and pay for the shuttle to take us to the top part. 3 generations visiting the Gorge, my mother walks slowly and therefore decided to star form the top of the Park and slowly go down to the middle section where we park our car. Going down is a lot easier for people with mobility issues. Whish the bottom section was open but they are having the trail under construction."
Lydia Gtrek W
"A Must-Do Hike at Watkins Glen State Park – Come Early, Take Your Time, and Be Inspired
My wife and I hiked the Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park and were absolutely blown away by its beauty and design. Despite part of the trail being under construction (an old stone bridge was being replaced, which temporarily closed off the bottom section), the experience was still incredible. While you might miss one or two falls due to the closure, there are still at least 10 more to enjoy—each one uniquely stunning.
We started the hike around 7:30 AM and finished a little before 10:00 AM. The full loop—Gorge Trail to Rim Trail and back—is about 2.5 to 3 miles. Due to the construction, we had to climb hundreds of stairs up to the Rim Trail and then descend back down to rejoin the Gorge Trail. It’s a good workout, but completely worth the effort. The trail is well maintained, though there are some wet and slippery spots—so wear sturdy shoes with good grip and bring water.
The waterfalls, stone bridges, narrow passageways, and misty gorges all combine to make this one of the most scenic and awe-inspiring hikes we’ve ever done. It truly feels like walking through a natural cathedral carved by water and time.
Pro tip: Arrive early. By the time we returned to our car, the trail was packed and the parking lots were full. Starting early gave us the luxury of experiencing the trail in peace and quiet—it felt almost magical.
Note that dogs are not allowed on the Gorge Trail, but they are allowed on the Rim Trail. The Rim Trail doesn’t offer the same dramatic views, but it’s a pleasant wooded walk and you can still hear the water rushing below.
This is one of those trails that reminds you why we hike in the first place—not just for the views, but for the sense of wonder it brings. As the designers intended, the Gorge Trail truly does inspire."
Thierry Croizer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Watkins Glen State Park is located in the Finger Lakes region of New York. It's accessible by car, with major routes leading to the park. The closest major airports are in Elmira (ELM) and Syracuse (SYR).
There are three main entrances: Main (bottom), South (mid-way), and Upper (top). The Main entrance is popular but can get crowded. The South entrance offers a slightly shorter hike, and the Upper entrance is ideal for a downhill walk.
Public transportation options directly to the park are limited. It's best to drive or consider ride-sharing services if you're not driving.
The Gorge Trail is the main attraction. You can hike it one-way or as part of a loop with the Rim Trail or Indian Trail. Maps are available at the park.
Yes, a shuttle service is often available to transport visitors between different points of the park, especially useful if you hike one-way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no per-person entry fee for Watkins Glen State Park. However, there is a parking fee, typically $10 per vehicle, which helps maintain the park.
The park is generally open daily from dawn to dusk. However, the Gorge Trail has specific seasonal hours and may close for maintenance or due to weather. Always check the official park website for the most current information. +1
Tickets are not required for entry, only parking fees. It's recommended to arrive early to secure a parking spot, especially during peak season.
The Gorge Trail is typically open from late spring through fall. It can close due to construction or weather. Check the park's official website for current trail status before your visit. +1
As there's no per-person entry fee, standard park passes don't apply. The parking fee is the primary cost.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Gorge Trail is about 1.5 miles one-way and typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, allowing time for photos and enjoying the scenery. +1
The Gorge Trail is considered moderate due to the numerous stairs and potentially slippery surfaces. The Rim Trail is generally easier.
Yes, the park is famous for its 19 stunning waterfalls along the Gorge Trail, including Rainbow Falls and Cavern Cascade.
Swimming is generally not permitted in the gorge or near the waterfalls for safety reasons. However, some visitors have mentioned swimming in designated areas outside the main gorge.
Bring comfortable, non-slip hiking shoes, water, snacks, a camera, and insect repellent. Layers of clothing are also recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Gorge Trail offers incredible photo opportunities, especially Rainbow Falls, Cavern Cascade, and the stone bridges. The early morning light is magical.
Yes, arriving very early (before 8 AM) or visiting on a weekday can significantly reduce crowds, allowing for unobstructed photos.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the gorge. A polarizing filter can help with reflections on the water. A tripod is useful for low-light conditions.
Drone usage is typically restricted in New York State Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check park regulations for specifics.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer people. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide beautiful lighting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Bring plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for the possibility of carrying younger children for parts of the hike. The sheer beauty of the waterfalls might captivate older children, but safety and accessibility are paramount. Always check for any ongoing construction that might limit access or create hazards.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Consider tackling the Gorge Trail as a one-way hike and using the shuttle service or arranging a pick-up at the other end. This allows you to focus on the experience without backtracking. The Rim Trail also offers a peaceful alternative for a more relaxed solo walk.
📸 Photographers
To get the best shots, aim for early morning light to avoid harsh shadows and crowds. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the scale of the gorge. Consider a tripod for longer exposures, especially near the waterfalls, and a polarizing filter to enhance water and foliage colors. Be prepared for mist, so protect your gear.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail
+1 Visitors often start at the Main Entrance (bottom) and hike up, or begin at the Upper Entrance and descend. The choice impacts the intensity of the climb. Starting from the top means a mostly downhill trek, which can be easier on the knees, while hiking up from the bottom offers a more challenging workout. Regardless of direction, the views are consistently breathtaking, with highlights like Rainbow Falls and Cavern Cascade being particular crowd-pleasers.
+1Important Considerations: The Gorge Trail can be wet and slippery, so sturdy, non-slip footwear is non-negotiable.
Beyond the Gorge: Exploring Other Trails
The Indian Trail and Finger Lakes Trail can be combined with the Gorge Trail to create longer loop hikes, offering a more extensive exploration of the park's natural beauty. These trails can add several miles to your hike, providing a more challenging and rewarding experience for those looking to spend more time outdoors.
+1For those seeking a less strenuous experience or visiting with young children, exploring the Upper Entrance area and walking a portion of the Rim Trail can still offer beautiful scenery without the intense stair climbing of the Gorge Trail.
Best Times to Visit for Photography and Solitude
Golden hour in the late afternoon can also be spectacular, with warm light illuminating the cliffs and water. However, this is also a popular time, so expect more company. Visiting during the fall is highly recommended for the added beauty of autumn foliage, which transforms the gorge into a vibrant tapestry of color.
Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, offering a more peaceful experience year-round. Be aware that construction can impact access and views, so checking the park's official website for updates is crucial before planning your visit.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit