If you’re a full-time nature explorer and you often dedicate your free time to various outdoor activities and sightseeing, then a visit to the Finger Lakes might be just what you need to feed your hobby. The entire place is packed with attractions to suit many interests and preferences. From splendid hiking trails to picturesque waterfalls, this region will enchant your eyes, mind, and soul.
Not to mention that the 11 glacial lakes are ideal for water sports buffs on the lookout for a new boating adventure or fishing session. If you haven’t visited the area yet – and even if you did, it is always worth visiting again, and want to learn more about what you can do when reaching this beautiful and vast region, here are some suggestions to consider.
Scenic landscapes, state parks, and waterfalls
The first thing that comes to many people’s minds as far as this region is concerned is the natural beauty one can find here. The 11 glacial lakes are a feast for the eyes, given their shape, clear waters, and the beauty surrounding them. Each one of them has its own charm and all of them offer various opportunities for water sports.
The towns located near the lakes make a great addition to a visitor’s must-see list thanks to their architecture and history. The Finger Lakes area is not limited to the 11 lakes, though. The state parks this area is home to should not be missed out on.
The Taughannock Falls State Park features attractions that will cover many preferences ranging from breathtaking falls to skating ponds, sledding slopes, and skiing trails. The waterfall in this part of the Finger Lakes offers views you can rarely see elsewhere, which is the reason why it is so popular among tourists.
You can’t visit the Finger Lakes without exploring the Robert Treman State Park and its spectacular Enfield Glen and Lucifer Falls. The park is home to 12 waterfalls that offer gorgeous views, lots of hiking trails, campsites, and RV sites.
What’s more, if you’ve always dreamed of swimming beneath a waterfall, here is where you will get the opportunity to do that. The park includes a stream-fed area where you can swim while enjoying the scenic waterfall view.
Water and winter sports
Another great thing about the Finger Lakes area is that it is the perfect place for water and winter sports buffs. If you plan to visit the area in the cold season, that is from December to March, rest assured that you will find something to get you moving. Whether you’re a cross-country or downhill skier, the Greek Peak and Bristol Mountain resorts are worth trying.
From downhill skiing to snowboarding, these places are ideal if you’re into winter sports. Even if you’re a beginner, the ski school will help you conquer snowy miles properly and safely. In case you’re interested in less crowded ski trails, the Cummings Nature Center and Finger Lakes National Forest offer some pretty nice and unspoiled ones.
If you plan to visit this region in the summer, you can engage in various water sports. From boating to fishing, there is plenty to do on the water. This review will help you renew your fishing gear whereas the many lakes, ponds, and fishing spots will enable you to diversify your fishing experience.
Museums and wine trails
You can further spice up your holiday in the Finger Lakes with a few wine tasting sessions. Boasting over 100 wineries, this region is a heaven for oenophiles. There are several wine trails to try including the highly-appreciated Seneca Lake Wine Trail and Keuka Wine Trail. Trying all of them takes more than a single trip, but since there are so many, you can easily find at least a few while exploring the area.
For a complete experience, you can also visit the Strong National Museum of Play if you travel with your kids, the George Eastman Museum, or the Corning Museum of glass. Not to mention that you can visit the Cornell University and its beautiful campus, surrounding lakes, and academic buildings. It is best to do so on the weekend, though, to avoid major university events.
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