Welcome to Watkins Glen & Schuyler CountyHome to Watkins Glen State Park
Welcome
Watkins Glen and Schuyler County can best be described as that place where Mother Nature meets Main Street. With Seneca Lake on one end and Watkins Glen State Park on the other, the village of Watkins Glen in particular is home to some of the most scenic and iconic views you could ask for!
Once you've explored the Gorge Trail, Rim Trail, campgrounds, playgrounds, swimming pool, and picnicking that the park has to offer, be sure to head out and explore the surrounding area, which is equally beautiful and inviting!
“The Glen” was first opened to tourists on July 4, 1863 by local newspaper owner Morvalden Ells and the landowner, George Freer. Upwards of 10,000 tickets were sold in the first year! After changes in ownership over the years, New York State purchased the property in 1906 and opened the park to visitors, free of charge. In 1924, the first established New York State Parks department in the Finger Lakes Region took over management of the park. Much of the stonework in Watkins Glen State Park was completed by the…
Beyond the many attractions and experiences here in Watkins Glen and Schuyler County, you'll also find plenty of unique events to enjoy year–round. From the Ice Bar in February to Finger Lakes Wine Festival in July; from the Movies on the Lake to the Grand Prix Festival in September — no matter your interest or time of your visit, you will find a festival or fun event where you can kick up your heels and have a great time!…
The Finger Lakes has a growing international reputation when it comes to wine. The hills surrounding Seneca Lake are dotted with dozens of wineries. In fact, Seneca Lake is more heavily populated with wineries than any other lake in the region — nearly 70… and counting! The diversity of offerings and experiences at each winery vary as widely as your personal taste, so we're sure you'll find the perfect wine for you! Over 30 wineries have come together over the years to form the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, which hosts unique and fun…
Schuyler County is located at the southern-most tip of Seneca Lake. At 38 miles long and over 600 feet deep, it is the deepest and second longest of the Finger Lakes. It is fed by underground springs, which keeps the water in a constant, circular motion, giving it little chance to freeze. Given its dramatic depth, the temperature also stays relatively constant, around 39°F. Of course, in the summer, the top fifteen feet or so warm significantly, reaching 70°–80°F.
Looking to access the water for boating, fishing, or swimming?
Adrenaline fans… start your engines! The streets of Watkins Glen and Schuyler County are home to the birthplace of American road racing and will forever have a place in racing history. On October 2, 1948, Watkins Glen hosted the first post–World War II road race in America. The 6.6–mile circuit ran through the village streets, starting and ending in front of the Schuyler County Courthouse. Visitors can download the map of the original race circuit and step back in time as they drive the same course that put Watkins Glen on an…
If you are looking for hiking and outdoor experiences, you've come to the right place! While Watkins Glen State Park is our crown jewel, there are many other diverse opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Here are a few ideas to get you started!
The Finger Lakes National Forest is the only national forest in New York State and one of only three in the northeast. This diverse wilderness area offers over 16,000 acres to explore. With miles of interconnecting trails, hiking…
Beyond the incredible hiking on the Gorge Trail and Rim Trail, Watkins Glen State Park offers much more to see and experience! Campers and day-visitors can enjoy the Olympic-size pool, scheduled summer tours through the gorge, tent and trailer campsites, picnic facilities and excellent fishing in nearby Seneca Lake or Catherine Creek, which is renowned for its annual spring run of rainbow trout. Here are are some additional details to help you plan your visit…
