Watkins Glen Gorge

Watkins Glen is one of the most spectacular geological formations in the eastern United States, where Glen Creek descends 400 feet through a narrow, sculpted gorge past 19 named waterfalls in just two miles. The layered shale and sandstone walls rise 200 feet on either side, worn smooth by thousands of years of water into sinuous curves, overhangs, and cathedral-like chambers. The centerpiece is Cavern Cascade, where hikers walk directly behind a curtain of falling water through a tunnel carved into the rock face.

The Gorge Trail is 1.5 miles long and climbs approximately 500 feet via more than 800 stone steps and a series of stone bridges that cross back and forth over the creek. The trail passes through narrow passages where the gorge walls are close enough to touch on both sides, under natural stone arches, and past pools of brilliant blue-green water. It is one of the most dramatic and immersive waterfall hikes anywhere in the country.

The Gorge Trail is open from late May through mid-October; winter ice makes the stone steps dangerously slick. Summer weekends are extremely crowded — arrive before 9 AM or visit on weekdays. Fall foliage season adds brilliant color to the already stunning scenery. The park offers camping, a pool, and is just steps from the charming village of Watkins Glen at the southern tip of Seneca Lake.