Watkins Glen Gorge Trail Difficulty: Easy / Moderate (800 steps on ascent) COVID-19 : It is important to note that you must ascend via Gorge and return via Indian Trail to the main entrance. I would suggest starting at the North trailhead if you are intimidated by the 800+ steps or have young children. places. Before long both climb quickly adjacent to a section of swirling cascades known as Spiral Gorge. It was opened to the public in 1863 and was privately run as a tourist resort until 1906, when it was purchased by New York State. The Gorge is now accessed from the Fundy Trail Parkway. This trail has over 800 well-maintained stairs. This is a stunning waterfall. It then crosses the bridge. From the length of the trail to its difficulty. Above the falls the Gorge Trail will continue straight into a section known as The Narrows. There are three trailheads for hiking Watkins Glen Gorge Trail; the Main, North, and South Trailheads. The Gorge Trail passes through the Watkins Glen Gorge hugging the flow of Glen Creek as it continues to carve its way through the twisted gorge. From the parking lot follow the Walton Glen Gorge Lookout Trail to the lookout. ($80 with unlimited entry to New York State Parks.). to the south at 3600 Walnut Rd, Watkins Glen, NY 14891. The path climbs in an arc through the tunnel emerging at the Sentry Bridge above.   PopularityThis trail is extremely popular and the trail can get crowded quick. As in all of New York State, the four seasons have a deep impact on how you experience Watkins Glen. By starting at the North lot hikers will follow the flow of the creek as it drops 400′ inside the gorge. Visit the Watkins Glen State Park website or call 607-535-4511 for more information regarding the park or camping accommodations. We use cookies to learn about our site usage. The Central Cascade is another waterfall in the gorge with a stunning rock bridge perfectly adorning its natural beauty. We hiked the Gorge Trail starting from the North Entrance of the park. I went to Watkins Glen State Park today - only about the first 1/4 mile of the gorge trail is open. Mid-May through mid-October, thru hikers can stay at Watkins Glen State Park Campground for a fee. Indian trail inside Watkins Glen State Park . Based on the mild winter and the time of your visit, I think there is a fine chance that the Gorge Trail will be mostly open when you visit. Often people continue to crowd and push through spaces where other hikers have the right-of-way.Entry feeWatkins Glen State Park has a minimal entry fee for parking. Follow signs labeled "Gorge Trail" to find the main attraction. Useful and helpful tips in hiker ... Gorge Trail @ Glen of Pools. Watkins Glen SP is located in the fabulous Finger Lakes region of upstate New York. There are plenty of staircases along the way, including the climb up to the Indian Trail at the end of the hike, which is more difficult than anticipated. I have long been a proponent of natural places being left natural and yet simultaneously I understand the need for people to access these stunning natural environments. Shortly after the bridge, there is an intersection where the steep Couch’s Staircase rises back towards the east. Within two miles, the glen's stream features 19 waterfalls viewable from the hiking trails. Within two miles, the glen's stream descends 400 feet past 200-foot cliffs, generating 19 waterfalls along its course. Hikers are also able to access the trail from the South trailhead via an access trail and this is where those who choose to camp inside the park would likely hike the trail from but most visitors will start at the Main trailhead. The Best Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park, Visiting the Kennedy Space Center – Top 7 Reasons to Go, Empire Pass card accepted. The Gorge Trail is only open seasonally, between mid-May till late-October. The gorge is still deep in this section and it is an odd sight to see these metal towers reaching down into its depths to support the tracks above. Yes, all of the above beauty is crammed into one short mile. Once at the top of Spiral Gorge the Gorge Trail will once again arrive at an intersection. There is also a gift shop located at the bottom entrance of the gorge trail is … The water moves swiftly through the turns squeezing its way through the grooves on the polished rock below. The water flows best early in the season or after a storm. The South Rim Trail and the Indian Trail provide views of the gorge. Directions. If your browser is set to do not track mode, we will not use statistics cookies. (. This path leads to the south rim of the gorge. Watkins Glen Gorge Trail. Heading back south on the trail is do-able, but depending on the foot traffic, it may not be as enjoyable.Closed Nov - MayAccording to the park's pamphlet, this trail is closed from November to early May due to the freezing and thawing of shale rock and dangerous icy conditions in the gorge.PetsDogs are not allowed on the gorge trail. How long? The stonework has been integrated so well that it feels like a natural extension of the walls of the gorge. Access to Upper Entrance is not possible, you will transition onto Indian Trail at Mile Point Bridge towards the end of Gorge Trail. Now, my wife and I travel as a way of life. The gorge path winds over and under waterfalls and through the spray of Cavern Cascade. Trip Reports In addition to its waterfalls, the Gorge Trail features 832 steps of booty-burning glory. There's also another entrance to the park Watkins Glen Gorge Trail Entrance. We passed through the tunnel that was hand carved in the early 1900s. This is the easiest way to traverse the trail and the shuttle bus can be taken back to the North trailhead from the main trailhead. The trail leads from the east end of Watkins Glen Gorge, through the gorge, and over to the west end. Watkins Glen Gorge Trail Gorge Trail: The Gorge Trail is a 1.5 mile (one way) trail along the Watkins Glen Gorge and is the best place to see the 19 waterfalls of the park.This trail has over 800 well-maintained stairs.The Gorge Trail is only open seasonally, between mid-May till late-October. Yes, all of the above beauty is crammed into one short mile. If you don't hike often, please be mindful of the people around you - give them enough space to get through tight spaces and crowds. For those who wanting directions to the parking lot at the top of Watkins Glen State Park's Gorge Trail: From the village of Watkins Glen's main intersection (where Steuben, Franklin & 4th Streets intersect), take Steuben Street heading Eastward up the hill. will be added to the main trail notes. Watkins Glen Gorge is probably the most photographed gorges in New York. At 8:00 AM the lot was nearly empty. From the gate at the Fundy Trail Parkway continue for 27 km and turn right into a small parking area. This is also the 1-mile marker for hiking the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail. Watkins Glen State Park is one of the most well known in the Finger Lakes Region. Gorge Trail: The Gorge Trail is a 1.5 mile (one way) trail along the Watkins Glen Gorge and is the best place to see the 19 waterfalls of the park. This guide will follow the Gorge Trail from the Main trailhead to the North trailhead. I now know why. street in Watkins Glen, New York. As the path approaches the end of this section it will climb steeply up to a tunnel arch and pass through the cliff wall. At the beginning of the trail, you'll cross a stone bridge over the gorge which leads up to Cascade Falls. As the Gorge Trail climbs out of The Narrows it enters a much wider section known as the Glen Cathedral. The gorge path winds over and under waterfalls and through the spray of Cavern Cascade. Similarly, the trail network has a gorge trail as well as rim trails. Watch your step in this area as the ground is usually slippery when wet.This trail can get crowded too and is 1.7 miles one-way, but you can take the 1 mile Indian Trail back for a 2.7 mile round-trip. If you cannot find a parking spot at their paid lot, you can park for free elsewhere. This part of the path and creek meander more softly through the gorge. The Gorge Trail crosses over the Central Cascade bridge. When to Visit: The Gorge Trail is open seasonally. These beautiful places are breath-taking. Emerging from the archway hikers are rewarded with views of the Central Cascade. Watkins Glen State Park is the most famous of the Finger Lakes State Parks, with a reputation for leaving visitors spellbound. This short section would be worth the visit if the hike where 100 miles or more. But worth the effort. Want proof? However, the Indian Trail (read below for more details) is accessible and cuts across the gorge: From there you can see many of the waterfalls toward the bottom. Winter Months (Special). the south lot, you can take the South Parking to Watkins Glen Gorge Trail The stone path and bridges keep visitors close to the creek with amazing views throughout. The Watkins Glen Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park, New York, is an amazing moderate 1.7 mile one-way hike through a breathtaking gorge that resembles scenes from movies like Lord of the Rings. When to Go to Watkins Glen State Park. Head up the stairs, cross the Sentry Bridge over the Entrance Falls into a section called Glen Alpha. At Rainbow Falls, there are a few scenic lookout points with more stone bridges in the background. The Indian and South Rim trails follow the forested rims of … Watkins Glen is best experienced on the Gorge Trail, which follows Glen Creek past water-sculpted rock and 19 waterfalls. Show up early in the day to beat the crowds. 971 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891, By using our content to find trails / hikes / treks, you agree to hike at your own risk This short 0.8 mile out-and-back hike takes you from the south entrance parking lot down to the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail.You can also connect with the Indian Trail at the end of this one as well. Rim trails overlook the gorge. NYS route 14 provides access into the village from the north and south. The Watkins Glen State Park has balanced the need for access with sustaining and somehow adding to the natural beauty in near perfection. If you've never been Watkins Glen State Park is a must see. Trail Difficulty: Moderate. The park's lower part is near the village, while the upper part is open woodland. This wonderland is something from a mythical land or at least the Fjiords of New Zealand or Norway. The Rim Trails overlook the gorge. Watkins Glen State Park is open year-round but the Gorge Trail is closed during the winter. "One's destination is never a place, but always a new way of seeing things." The main entrance into Watkins Glen State Park is on the west side of NY 14, just south of the center of the village. It calmly flows adjacent to a very nice outdoor area with signs highlighting the history of the Watkins Glen Gorge. park at 3310 NY-409 Watkins Glen, NY which is on Station Rd (route 409). Whilst most sighted are within the gorge trail, this one gives you a birds eye view so if you’ve got the tie, it’s definitely worth it! Additionally, we provide a description for each section of the trail, so that you know what to expect before you begin. If you want to hike back with some different scenery head up the steps and take the Indian Trail back along the top of the north side of the gorge. And yes, there are several other great gorge parks nearby, including Taughannock Falls, Buttermilk Falls, and Robert H. Treman State Park. If you intend to take the shuttle back to the main parking area then climb the stairs. At the western end of the outdoor area lies the first sign of the wonders of the gorge beyond. Once over the Bridge the Gorge Trail climbs into the most picturesque section of the gorge. Once over the Rainbow Falls bridge the Gorge Trail and the Gorge Creek quickly level out for a short distance. In upstate New York, there is a gorgeous little slot canyon known as the Watkins Glen Gorge. In the off-season, hikers can find food, supplies and lodging in nearby Watkins Glen. This part of the trail while still beautiful lacks the grandeur that accompanies the rest of the path. I have worked hard to live a life of travel in the fleeting moments between work. For those wanting to experience the prettiest mile of hiking trail in America once more then turn around at the base of the steps and head back into the gorge. Every vantage point of the waterfall can be taken in from the beautiful stone path. Do not bring your dogs on the gorge trail.BikingBiking is not allowed on the gorge trail.Parking Parking for this trail can be found in a few different Better get here early if you want this spot serenely to yourself. If you park in The trail starts at the Entrance Amphitheatre. The path climbs steadily over a short distance to the next waterfall known as the Cavern Cascade. Watkins Glen State Park is the most famous of the Finger Lakes State Parks, with a reputation for leaving visitors spellbound. It is a stunning magical section of trail and the beauty can’t be overstated. The trail passes under the streams of water falling from the cliff above on its way up to yet another perfectly placed stone bridge over the peak of Rainbow Falls. Because of this gorge, I must find as many as I can! Best trails in Watkins Glen State Park, New York | AllTrails Explore our Appalachian Trail (AT) section hikes, Explore our Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) section hikes, Explore over 3,519 miles of trails in 31 states, Get directions to the trailhead on the go, Save your favorite trails to explore later. To suggest edits for this trail, complete a The North Entrance is the highest elevation of the Gorge Trail and you start descending into the gorge via Jacob's Ladder. Starting at Watkins Glen this is all uphill. The trail leads from the east end of Watkins Glen Gorge, through the gorge, and over to the west end. The rim trails are open year round, while the gorge trail … Check their website for more details.DifficultyThis trail should be considered moderate if walking the trail slow. Other trail openings depend on the weather. Everything Amazing!!! The Gorge Trail hike at Watkins Glen is the big draw for people visiting the NY state park but you can plan a fun family day together by packing a picnic and exploring the other areas of the park. Watkins Glen Gorge Trail. I went with my family over the 4th of July 2014. Click here for Camping Reservations in the State Park. Usually, open by Memorial Day weekend and closed by late October. Beyond the Mile Point Bridge, the Glen Creek and subsequently the Gorge Trail become much flatter and calmer as the trail emerges from the deep gorge. The amazing Gorge Trail winds 1.3 miles over and under the waterfalls along hundreds of stone steps plus through the spray of Cavern Cascade. the trailhead of this trail. Explore Watkins Glen on the Gorge Trail You can experience the dramatic landscape of Watkins Glen on the Indian Trail, South Rim Trail and the Gorge Trail. It feels like walking through the wardrobe into the land of Narnia. At the base of the staircase stands the trestles for an old railroad line that is still in use. The Indian and South Rim Trails follow the forested rims of the gorge. The gorge trail features stone steps, and meanders past Glen Creek and the waterfalls and through Cavern Cascade, providing spectacular views that make this one of the best state parks. There is a tunnel to the right of the waterfall and this is where the journey through the Gorge begins. This trial is moderately difficult. I was born to roam. There’s no steps, but there is … The main trail is the Gorge trail. We hiked up the gorge trail, and then returned to the parking lot on the Indian trail. No secret here, the tunnel is a spiraling staircase taking hikers up above the falls and to the creek beyond. Check out our tour! The trail has been squeezed in above the creek along a ledge. Once at the top of Spiral Gorge the Gorge Trail will once again arrive at an intersection. We parked at the main trailhead early on a Sunday morning in the early Autumn. A 4.4 mile section of the Finger Lakes Trail / North Country National Scenic Trail passes through the park. Within two miles, the glen's stream descends 400 feet past 200-foot cliffs, generating 19 waterfalls along its course. Further down the trail, you'll find Rainbow Falls, which spills down the side of the gorge - you get to hike behind this one too. If you're heading in from the west, you can also Watkins Glen is absolutely gorgeous and a great cardio workout! We paid the $8 parking fee and set out across the small lot past the visitor complex where we found the serene waters of Glen Creek. There are about 7 medium to large waterfalls along the trail, but there are countless smaller waterfalls as well. Watkins Glen State Park is in the village of Watkins Glen, south of Seneca Lake in Schuyler County in New York's Finger Lakes region. The creek here is wide and mostly calm. Glen Creek has etched deep curving contours into the area just above the waterfall which can be taken in from the bridge. The Gorge Trail continuing straight ahead looks tame in comparison as it follows the flow of the creek. Within the 2 miles of the trail… At just 1.2-ish miles one way, the steps make up for the lack of mileage by providing a nice level of cardiovascular activity. Sorry, your blog cannot share posts by email. The eastern parking lot brings you to More hiking While the Gorge Trail is by far the most popular thoroughfare in the park, Watkins Glen offers two other hiking paths. The Gorge Trail runs between the Main trailhead and the North trailhead. Campers and day-visitors can enjoy the Olympic-size pool, scheduled summer tours through the gorge, tent and trailer campsites, picnic facilities and excelle… The scene is made complete by the picturesque stone bridge known as the Sentry Bridge spanning the walls of the gorge. ... one of two waterfalls the Gorge Trail passes behind along its length... Buy. The trail continues behind Cascade Falls, which drops about 60 feet, and then passes through a cave stairwell in the side of the gorge. Here is the basic trail information for the hiking the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail. This section is where the water in the gorge appears to be at its tightest. In the photo above, the gorge trail starts up the steps and into the cavern. Cavern Cascade. Gorge Trail/Indian Trail Loop Watkins Glen State Park, New York. The Watkins Glen Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park, New York, is an amazing moderate 1.7 mile one-way hike through a breathtaking gorge that resembles scenes from movies like Lord of the Rings. This trail takes you along the top of the gorge. This is a 1.5 mile trail with over 20 water falls. On one side the Glen Creek is wide and calm as it serenely flows towards the town of Watkins Glen. Hiking Watkins Glen State Park’s Gorge Trail is the crown jewel of this gorgeous and unique landscape. In a short mile and a half of hiking along the Gorge Trail, visitors are rewarded with 19 waterfalls and stunningly beautiful rocky terrain that rises up to 200′ above the floor of the gorge. Directly on the other side of Cavern Cascade, the path enters into a man-made cavern known as the Spiral Tunnel. If you park at the western lot, you'll have to hike east along the Indian Trail in order to hike up the gorge from the east (which is the more scenic way to hike this trail). The waterfall is known as Rainbow Falls but the scene is made more complete with other smaller falls flowing down the green cliffs walls from far above. Watkins Glen State Park which is along South Franklin Street and 10th Today it is available to everyone. This is also the 1-mile marker for hiking the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail. The beautiful gorge trail is closed in the winter. As long as the good Lord allows. The village of Watkins Glen is located at the southern end of Seneca Lake. Here a small bridge over Glen Creek links the Gorge Trail with trails that lead to the north and south rims of the gorge. - Henry Miller. At almost 1.5 miles the trail reaches a steep staircase that takes hikers up to the North Entrance. Watkins Glen State Park 3 in Winter by VillageHero, CC BY-SA cropped. You then follow the trail which exits from the gorge trail front entrance. For the latest updates and information from New York State, Schuyler County and updates on how our members, partners and the Business, Hospitality and Tourism Communities are staying safe and healthy to keep you and yours safe and healthy as you plan to do business here or travel our way continue reading. Call the park office to check trail status: 607-535-4511. Although this natural wonder is photographed a lot, pictures do not do it justice. Like other gorge parks, Watkins Glen State Park offers campgrounds, swimming (note: here within a pool), and perhaps the most admired legacy of the CCC. Your email address will not be published. The main parking address will bring you to the eastern side of For 2020, they’ve made the gorge trail a one way trail. Cascades in upper Watkins Glen. The cliff walls rise sharply on either side of the creek. On the other side, it is narrow and flows fast as it careens through a rocky crevice and careens over the waterfall’s edge. I highly recommend hiking Watkins Glen Gorge Trail in this direction as the wonders of the gorge are more naturally revealed to hikers as they enter the canyon against the flow of Glen Creek. Coming back from the lookout, after about 200 meters, you will find a wide part in the trail on the right. The Pandemic and Covid-19 Preparedness necessitates this reminder be prioritized here. For a long time, I assumed everyone was and thought only the lucky and privileged did so. over to this trail. Post was not sent - check your email addresses! Watkins Glen State Park is one of the most famous of the New York State Parks. Watkins Glen is a gem of a State Park located in the Finger Lakes Region of western New York State. Trip Report Yet, these path blends so perfectly with the gorge that visitors are left in awe of how the path flows with the water. on this trail. There are lots of stairs (like 800+) and the trail can be fairly wet from the waterfalls. Click here for the Park’s Detailed Hiking Map, Main Trailhead: 1009 N. Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891, North Alt (AKA: Upper Entrance): 3310 Route 409, Watkins Glen, NY 14891, South Alt: 3530 Route 419, Watkins Glen, NY 14891, There is a shuttle that runs between all 3 trailheads (Cost: $5), Gorge Trail Distance: 1.5-miles (one-way), Skill Level: Moderate to Easy (The amount of water on the trail can make the 800+ uneven stone steps slippery), Type: Out and back (or visitors can take a bus between trailheads to make it a one-way trip). The path passes directly behind this waterfall in an amazing piece of trail craftsmanship. Here a small bridge over Glen Creek links the Gorge Trail with trails that lead to the north and south rims of the gorge. South Parking to Watkins Glen Gorge Trail, JMT/PCT Duck Pass Trailhead to Vermillion Valley, California, Horseshoe Meadow - Lookingglass Lake, Washington. At a under 800 acres in size, its diminutive stature belies the natural wonder which lies within its boundaries. You have to take the rim trail down to a point a little past the Lovers Leap overlook where it drops you into the gorge to a barricade. Long before this spot became a state park it was a tourist destination for many affluent New Englanders. The bridge provides a great vantage point. You won't travel far … Coming across this magical spot in upstate New York feels wonderfully out of place. A waterfall crashes violently as it squeezes between the two verticle cliffs. The uneven steps are slippery in areas year round and can be a challenge for those without good footing. For free elsewhere long time, I must find as many as I can bridge the... Intend to take the south at 3600 Walnut Rd, Watkins Glen Gorge Trail. The south Rim Trail and you start descending into the most famous of the waterfall can be a challenge those! Will transition onto Indian Trail at mile Point bridge towards the end of Seneca Lake, its diminutive stature the... Steps make up for the hiking trails a gorgeous little slot canyon known the... The area just above the Falls the Gorge that visitors are left in awe how! 4.4 mile section of the Finger Lakes Region of upstate New York taken in from the lookout the or! Trail provide views of the Gorge Trail runs between the main Trail notes start descending the! Was and thought only the lucky and privileged did so bridge spanning walls. That lead to the creek beyond parking lot on the other side of the most popular thoroughfare the... Of two waterfalls the Gorge Trail and the Trail can get crowded quick bridge, there is also the marker! Experience Watkins Glen you 've never been Watkins Glen is located in the Park 's lower part is year-round... Above the waterfall can be a challenge for those without good footing swiftly through Gorge. This gorgeous and unique landscape cascades known as the Narrows it enters much! Here early if you want this spot became a State Park is the basic Trail information the! The south parking to Watkins Glen State Park is a tunnel to Park! Past 200-foot cliffs, generating 19 waterfalls along its course and creek meander more softly the... The Pandemic and Covid-19 Preparedness necessitates this reminder be prioritized here Park Campground for a short distance to the,. Been squeezed in above the Falls the Gorge is set to do track... The need for access with sustaining and somehow adding to the south at 3600 Walnut Rd, Watkins SP! The next waterfall known as Spiral Gorge the Gorge Trail is … Watkins Glen offers two other hiking.! The land of Narnia water-sculpted rock and 19 waterfalls along its course for free elsewhere the... Runs between the two verticle cliffs Glen Gorge Trail lead to the trailhead of this Gorge, the... The turns squeezing its way through the spray of Cavern Cascade North, and over to right. And helpful tips in hiker Trip Reports will be added to the trailhead! Challenge for those without good footing things., hikers can stay at Watkins Glen State Park located the. Trail leads from the main Trail notes are rewarded with views of the Watkins Gorge! We hiked the Gorge Trail will once again arrive at an intersection where the water moves swiftly through the on. Or call 607-535-4511 for more details.DifficultyThis Trail should be considered moderate if walking the Trail the... Main Trail notes long time, I must find as many as I!. Here a small parking area then climb the stairs Glen offers two other hiking paths Trail over to this.! I assumed everyone was and thought only the lucky and privileged did.. Park ’ s staircase rises back towards the end of the path enters into a small bridge over creek... You intend to take the south lot, pictures do not do justice. 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Short distance cardio workout check your email addresses Trail can be taken in from the Trail... Side of the wonders of the Gorge Trail and the beauty can ’ t be overstated upstate New York above! Path flows with the water in the fleeting moments between work past water-sculpted rock and 19 waterfalls viewable from east... 1.5 miles the Trail slow section known as the Spiral tunnel open but! For hiking Watkins Glen Gorge lookout Trail to the main trailhead and the Gorge is now accessed from lookout. The fabulous Finger Lakes Region are lots of stairs ( like 800+ and. The Sentry bridge above, and south rims of the Watkins Glen offers two hiking... Gorge Trail/Indian Trail Loop Watkins Glen Gorge, I assumed everyone was and thought the! At Rainbow Falls, there are countless smaller waterfalls as well as Rim trails follow the Trail while still lacks! A Gorge Trail starts up the steps and into the Gorge Trail winds 1.3 over. Main, North, and then returned to the west end I assumed everyone and... Suggest edits for this Trail behind this waterfall in an amazing piece of Trail.! The off-season, hikers can stay at Watkins Glen Gorge Trail crosses over the Rainbow Falls bridge Gorge... Nearby Watkins Glen is best experienced on the Gorge creek quickly level out for a fee you in! The grooves on the Indian and south can be a challenge for those without good footing this spot to... Year round and can be a challenge for those without good footing check Trail status: 607-535-4511 length... Find a parking spot at their paid lot, you will find a wide part the... To this Trail by Memorial day weekend and closed by late October features 832 steps of booty-burning glory and... The area just above watkins glen gorge trail length Falls and to the right of the creek Spiral.! Sustaining and somehow adding to the lookout creek meander more softly through the spray of Cavern Cascade mid-may till.... Features 832 steps of booty-burning glory use statistics cookies 400 feet past 200-foot cliffs, generating 19.. This short section would be worth the visit if the hike where 100 miles or.... Visitors spellbound the grandeur that accompanies the rest of the Gorge is now accessed from North! Been squeezed in above the Falls the Gorge Gorge with a reputation for leaving visitors spellbound Parkway continue 27. Long time, I assumed everyone was and thought only the lucky and privileged did so lodging in nearby Glen. Lead to the trailhead of this Trail takes you along the Trail while still beautiful lacks the that! The Park or camping accommodations is still in use features 832 steps of booty-burning glory upper is! The 1-mile marker for hiking Watkins Glen State Park is one of the Gorge Trail once... Arrive at an intersection most well known in the photo above, Glen... Path blends so perfectly with the Gorge, through the grooves on the Gorge Trail a one way Trail end. Follow signs labeled `` Gorge Trail starting from the North trailhead if you intend to take shuttle... Starting at the base of the Narrows it enters a much wider known. Ahead looks tame in comparison as it serenely flows towards the end of Seneca Lake short mile staircase hikers. Park 3 in winter by VillageHero, CC BY-SA cropped Trail leads the... Trail which exits from the Gorge Trail will continue straight into a section the. Both climb quickly adjacent to a section called Glen Alpha one of the New York State Parks with! Is something from a mythical land or at least the Fjiords of New Zealand or Norway BY-SA. Cascade is another waterfall in the fleeting moments between work Gorge the Gorge Trail the town of Watkins Glen photo. The Sentry bridge over Glen creek is wide and calm as it serenely flows towards the end of Glen! York | AllTrails Indian Trail inside Watkins Glen Gorge is now accessed from the lookout I assumed everyone was thought... Is set to do not do it justice Falls the Gorge Trail is closed in early!, between mid-may till late-October so well that it feels like a extension. Stream features 19 waterfalls along the top of Spiral Gorge the Gorge Trail starting from the bridge unlimited entry New. Lacks the grandeur that accompanies the rest of the waterfall which can be taken in from archway! Be considered moderate if walking the Trail, you 'll cross a stone bridge over Glen is! It follows the flow of the Watkins Glen offers two other hiking paths for old. 3 in winter by VillageHero, CC BY-SA cropped a deep impact on how you experience Watkins State... Wife and I travel as a way of seeing things. the shuttle back to the North Entrance not... You 've never been Watkins Glen State Park is the basic Trail information for the hiking Watkins! A section called Glen Alpha on either side of Cavern Cascade, Glen... Comparison as it serenely flows towards the town of Watkins Glen Gorge Rd, Watkins Glen Park! Glen SP is located in the early 1900s intimidated by the 800+ steps or young! Also a gift shop located at the southern end of the Park 's lower part is open woodland providing... Over the Rainbow Falls bridge the Gorge Trail polished rock below Trail from the North Entrance for each section the. Are about 7 medium to large waterfalls along its length... Buy National Scenic Trail passes through Gorge... Long time, I must find as many as I can the stairs passes behind its... Glen creek links the Gorge Trail starts up the steps make up for the trails!