With 19 spectacular waterfalls, a flowing glen, and steep cliffs, Watkins Glen State Park can not be missed on a trip to the Finger Lakes. This is one of the most ethereally beautiful places I have ever visited. Truly, photos don’t compare to how pretty this park is!
Hiking the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park is a truly magnificent experience.
The first time I visited Watkins Glen, I was blown away by its beauty. I was so awestruck that I’ve revisited countless times since.
The Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen leads you to Rainbow Falls, the most iconic waterfall in the park. Following Glen Creek, up stone staircases, and over idyllic bridges, you are rewarded with some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Finger Lakes on the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail.
Because of its immense popularity, you should follow the tips outlined in this guide to hiking the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail.
Before You Go
🏨 Where to Stay: Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel offers lake views and is within walking distance of the Gorge Trail. Check Rates & Availability
⭐ Book Early: Hotels in Watkins Glen often sell out during summer weekends and peak fall foliage season. Browse Watkins Glen Hotels
About The Watkins Glen Gorge Trail
The Watkins Glen 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. While the Gorge Trail has a lot of stairs (800!), you don’t need to be an expert hiker for this trail. As long as you are in moderate physical condition, you should be able to hike this trail.
While climbing 800 steps can seem daunting, there are so many beautiful views at Watkins Glen that chances are you will make plenty of stops on your hike and won’t become too tired.
I stopped every few feet to take in the view and take photos. With frequent stops, you won’t even notice the climb.
- Trail Difficulty: Moderate
- Trail Length: 1.5 miles (one way)
Watkins Glen Gorge Trail 2026 Update
Watkins Glen State Park is currently undergoing a renovation project to replace the Sentry Bridge. Construction started after July 7, 2025, and is set to be completed by July 4, 2026.
Unfortunately, this means that a segment of the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail is currently closed to visitors.
However, that doesn’t mean that the gorge trail is closed completely! There’s still a way to hike the gorge trail during this construction period.
To access the Gorge Trail from the base of the gorge at the Watkins Glen Visitors Center, there is a detour to take.
There is a set of stairs behind the visitors center that leads to the rim trail. Follow this trail until you reach the first set of stairs going down.
There will be signs the entire way indicating where the gorge trail begins.
The walk up to the rim trail is a bit steep, but it is well worth it to reach Watkins Glen Gorge! Depending on your walking speed, the detour will take 5-10 minutes.
Watkins Glen Gorge Trail Experience
Do you want to know what to expect when hiking the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail? Here is my walkthrough of Watkins Glen, highlighting the experience of hiking the Gorge Trail.
Main Entrance
Begin your journey through Watkins Glen Gorge Trail at the Main Entrance. The Main Entrance starts at the base of the gorge, and you will need to work your way up to several sets of stairs throughout the park.
As you hike up through the park from the Main Entrance, the waterfalls and views will be in front of you.
Upon entering the park, the views are immediately breathtaking. The glen cuts through the center of the cliffs in a small stream, and the water flows smoothly, cascading over the cliffs.
Waterfalls and beautiful views will beckon you to continue your upward climb. You may think it couldn’t possibly get prettier. But it does!
Entrance Tunnel and Sentry Bridge
Upon entering the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail, you will be immediately blown away.
The entrance to the gorge is a tall, narrow crack. Passing this entry will make you feel like you are stepping into some mythical land. You will see some flowing water and a stone bridge overhead.
But first, you must climb up a spiral staircase before reaching the stone bridge, Sentry Bridge. Reaching Sentry Bridge marks your entry into the Watkins Glen Gorge.
From the bridge, you can look directly down at a narrow part of Glen Creek. The way the creek cuts through the rocks, creating waves, seems otherworldly.
Cavern Cascade and Spiral Tunnel
The sheer beauty of Watkins Glen State Park is evident once you reach Cavern Cascade. While it is not the iconic Watkins Glen Rainbow Falls view, it is beautiful in its own right.
This thin, veil-like waterfall falls delicately into the gorge.
Walking behind Cavern Cascade is one of my favorite moments hiking the Watkins Glen Gorge. To continue the hike, you must walk behind this waterfall.
Many people will stop behind Cavern Cascade to reach out and touch the water. At this point, you may start getting a little wet.
After passing behind Cavern Cascade, you will round the corner to Spiral Tunnel. Spiral Tunnel is a set of stairs leading to the next part of the hike.
The Narrows and Glen Cathedral
Continuing along the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail, you will pass through the narrows of Watkins Glen. The beauty and diversity of this park is astounding, and the narrows showcase that.
This section of the Watkins Glen Gorge is hidden from sunlight, so it tends to be cool and moist.
In juxtaposition, Glen Cathedral is the sunniest part of the gorge. The towering cathedral wall puts you deep inside the gorge. This area is wide and open, and may be the only time you feel the sun blazing down at you.
Central Cascade
At 60 ft, Central Cascade is the tallest waterfall at Watkins Glen State Park.
This phenomenal waterfall has a stone bridge at the top. You can view Central Cascade from every angle as you walk up the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail stairs and over the bridge.
Once you reach the bridge above Central Cascade, you will see the small plunge pools that flow from Glen Creek to this waterfall. The site of these plunge pools indicates that you are about to reach the iconic spot in Watkins Glen State Park, Rainbow Falls.
Rainbow Falls
This view is one of the most beautiful spots I have ever seen. The waterfalls cascade effortlessly down the gorge into the emerald plunge pools.
It is no surprise that Rainbow Falls in Watkins Glen State Park is such an iconic spot. It is truly mesmerizing.
Rainbow Falls begs to be photographed. It is truly one of the most beautiful places in New York—scratch that—Watkins Glen State Park is one of the most beautiful places in the world!
After spending ample time photographing Rainbow Falls and taking in the view, duck under the small waterfall spilling out over the walkway. Here, you’re going to get wet. But it’s worth it to continue exploring the Gorge Trail and viewing the small plunge pools.
One waterfall even flows into a heart-shaped basin. Nothing has ever represented my fondness for nature quite as acutely.
Bridge at Rainbow Falls
Many people stop at Rainbow Falls before turning around, but be sure to continue up the stairs because some of the most spectacular views of the gorge are still ahead.
After climbing the stairs beside Rainbow Falls, you’ll reach a bridge overlooking the gorge below.
From here, you can look back toward the waterfalls, stone walkways, and emerald plunge pools that make this section of Watkins Glen so famous. While most visitors focus on photographing Rainbow Falls from below, the view from above offers an entirely different perspective of the gorge.
The bridge offers one of the best vantage points of the waterfall you just walked beneath, allowing you to fully appreciate this cascading waterfall.
Frowning Cliff
After leaving Rainbow Falls, the trail continues through a series of smaller cascades and plunge pools before reaching Frowning Cliff. Named for its distinctive rock formation, this section showcases the sculpted walls that make Watkins Glen Gorge so unique.
While Rainbow Falls may be the most photographed spot in the park, don’t rush past Frowning Cliff. This section of the trail has a quieter beauty that feels completely different from the dramatic waterfalls below.
Water trickles down the layered rock walls, creating the appearance of tears running down the face of the cliff. Combined with the moss-covered stone and narrow gorge walls, it is one of the most atmospheric sections of the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail.
Spiral Gorge
A small waterfall tucked beside the stone staircase marks the beginning of Spiral Gorge. As you climb higher, you’ll be rewarded with views of additional cascades, crystal-clear plunge pools, and the winding creek below.
This picturesque section of the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail feels quieter than Rainbow Falls, but it is no less beautiful. The layered rock walls, flowing water, and ever-changing views make it one of the most scenic stretches of the hike.
Mile Point Bridge & End of Gorge Trail
You’ll notice a small stone bridge crossing the gorge, known as Mile Point Bridge. This bridge marks the upper end of the Gorge Trail and serves as the junction with the Indian Trail.
From here, hikers can either retrace their steps through the gorge, continue onto the Indian Trail for a loop hike, or climb Jacob’s Ladder to access the seasonal shuttle when it is operating.
While the most famous waterfalls are behind you, the views from this area provide one final look into the dramatic gorge before leaving the trail.
Return to the Main Entrance Via Indian Trail or Back Down the Gorge Trail
The Indian Trail follows the North Rim back to the Main Entrance of Watkins Glen State Park. While it is a nice hike, the scenic part of your hike is behind you after you’ve left the gorge.
There is a suspension bridge on the Indian Trail, which offers a view of the Watkins Glen Gorge below. So that is worth checking out!
Hiking the Indian Trail back may be the quicker route, as there are fewer people crowding it; however, I would suggest hiking back down the Gorge Trail.
The Watkins Glen Gorge Trail is incredibly scenic, so you will surely enjoy hiking it again.
Hiking Watkins Glen State Park
There are several ways to hike the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail depending on your fitness level, available time, and whether you want to use the seasonal shuttle. While each route has its advantages, I would almost always recommend starting from the Main Entrance.
Although the 800 stairs at Watkins Glen State Park may seem difficult, walking up the Gorge Trail means the waterfalls will be in front of you the entire time.
This makes for a better experience because as you ascend the stairs, you will be rewarded with beautiful waterfall views.
On the other hand, hiking down the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail means the views will be behind you the entire time.
To take in the waterfall views, you will have to keep stopping and turning around. It is still a great way to experience Watkins Glen State Park, yet it takes away some of the *wow* moments you get climbing up the Gorge.
My Recommended Route (Out and Back the Gorge Trail)
If you want the best overall experience, hike up the Gorge Trail from the Main Entrance and return the same way.
This is the route I take every time I hike the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail. This option allows you to experience the gorge from both directions.
On the way up the gorge, you get those wow moments of the views in front of you. And on the return trip, you’ll often notice details and viewpoints you missed on the way up.
From the Main Entrance (One Way)
If you only have time to hike in one direction, you can hike up the Watkins Glen Gorge from the Main Entrance.
Once you reach the Upper Entrance, you can take the seasonal shuttle to where your car is parked.
From the Upper Entrance (One Way)
From the Upper Entrance, you can hike one way down the gorge.
When you hike down the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail, the views are behind you. So, I would only recommend this option if you physically cannot walk up all the stairs at Watkins Glen State Park.
Once you reach the bottom of the gorge, you can take the seasonal shuttle back to where you parked your car.
Gorge Trail and Indian Trail Loop
If you’d like some variety in your hike, consider hiking the Gorge Trail and Indian Trail Loop.
If you do this option, hike up the Gorge Trail and back on the Indian Trail. It might seem strenuous to hike up the stairs, but this is the more scenic way to experience this trail.
Watkins Glen Trail Shuttle
The seasonal shuttle makes one-way hiking options possible and is especially useful for visitors who do not want to hike back through the gorge.
Shuttle Price: $6 per adult; children under 10 ride free
Operating Schedule:
- May through July 4: Weekends only
- July 4 through Labor Day: Daily
- Labor Day through October: Weekends only
Check the official park website for current schedules and operating dates.
How Long Does the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail Take
Plan for at least 2 hours to hike the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail.
While the trail is only 1.5 miles each way (3 miles round trip), you’ll likely spend more time than expected stopping to admire the waterfalls, photograph the scenery, and navigate the crowds during busy periods.
Trust me, you will want to stop for plenty of photos, so allow yourself extra time to hike at Watkins Glen.
Tips for Hiking Watkins Glen Gorge Trail
Before your visit, keep these tips in mind to make the most of your hike:
- Bring rain gear. The Gorge Trail tends to be cool, damp, and misty year-round. You may get sprayed by waterfalls, especially near Rainbow Falls and Cavern Cascade. Wear shoes with good traction that you don’t mind getting wet or muddy.
- Arrive early. Watkins Glen State Park can get extremely crowded during summer weekends and holidays. For the best experience, arrive early in the morning before tour groups and day-trippers fill the trail.
- Allow plenty of time. While the trail can technically be completed in about an hour, most visitors spend closer to two hours stopping for photos and enjoying the scenery.
- Consider using the shuttle. If you don’t want to hike the Gorge Trail out and back, the seasonal shuttle makes it easy to complete a one-way hike. Be sure to check the operating schedule before your visit.
Best Time to Visit Watkins Glen State Park
The Best Time of the Year
The Watkins Glen Gorge Trail is open seasonally, typically from mid-May to late October.
I’ve visited in all three seasons that the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail is open, and I don’t think any season is necessarily better than the other.
However, the Watkins Glen Gorge can be cold and damp, so I recommend visiting on a warmer day. I love visiting in the summer for the warm weather, which makes me want to step into the mist of the waterfalls.
On the other hand, if you can plan an early October trip, you will likely have fewer crowds and beautiful fall foliage.
The Best Time of Day
For the best experience, visit Watkins Glen State Park as early in the day as possible.
The trail becomes much busier in the afternoon as tour groups and day-trippers arrive, especially during the summer. If an early start isn’t possible, evenings can also be a great time to visit after the crowds begin to thin out.
Parking and Entrance Fees at Watkins Glen State Park
Admission to Watkins Glen State Park and the Gorge Trail is free. However, there is a $10 parking fee at the designated park lots.
If you plan on visiting multiple state parks in one day, your parking pass is valid for the entire day at any New York State Park.
Because Watkins Glen State Park is one of the most popular attractions in the Finger Lakes, parking lots can fill quickly on summer weekends and holidays. Arriving early will give you the best chance of securing a parking spot and avoiding the largest crowds.
Tip: Consider purchasing an Empire Pass, which gives you unlimited entry to most New York State Parks.
Where to Stay Near Watkins Glen State Park
If you’re planning to hike the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail, consider staying within walking distance of the park. Not only will it make getting an early start easier, but you’ll also be close to downtown Watkins Glen, Seneca Lake, and many of the area’s restaurants.
I stayed at Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, a great base for exploring Watkins Glen State Park.
- Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel: Located on Seneca Lake, Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is one of the best places to stay near Watkins Glen State Park. The hotel offers beautiful lake views and is within walking distance of both the Gorge Trail and downtown Watkins Glen. After a day of hiking, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the waterfront setting. Read my full review. Check availability on Booking.com
Is the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail Worth It: Wrap-up
With 19 waterfalls, stone bridges, winding staircases, and dramatic gorge views, the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail is one of the most picturesque hikes in New York State.
While Rainbow Falls may be the most famous stop, every section of the trail offers something unique. With so many beautiful views, you will hardly notice the 800-step climb along the trail.
Whether you’re visiting the Finger Lakes for a weekend getaway or simply passing through Watkins Glen, hiking the Gorge Trail is an experience that should be at the top of your itinerary.
If you’re planning a longer stay, be sure to check out my complete Watkins Glen Travel Guide for wineries, restaurants, waterfalls, and more things to do in the area.
For more travel inspiration, check out these posts:
⛵ Best Things to Do in Watkins Glen NY
📷 The Best Finger Lakes Waterfalls You Must Visit
💦 Visiting Eagle Cliff Falls in Havana Glen Park
For more New York travel, check out my New York section!
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Wow. Beautiful and serene. 🙂