Our weather is less snowy than in Buffalo, Rochester, or northern Pennsylvania. This is due to several key geographic and climatic factors, including the region’s distance from the Great Lakes, its terrain, and the local weather patterns that influence snowfall.
1. Distance from the Great Lakes
Buffalo and Rochester, located along the eastern shores of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, are directly impacted by a weather phenomenon called lake-effect snow. This occurs when cold air moves over the relatively warmer waters of the lakes, causing moisture to evaporate, and when this moist air cools, it releases the moisture in the form of snow. This process produces heavy, localized snowfalls, particularly on the east sides of the lakes. Buffalo and Rochester are both in the direct path of these snow bands, which is why they often experience substantial snowfall in the winter.
In contrast, Finger Lakes Wine Country is located further inland, about 50 to 100 miles from the Great Lakes. While the region is still influenced by the lakes, it is far enough away that it does not experience the same intensity of lake-effect snow. The Finger Lakes still have a moderating effect on the climate, helping to keep temperatures milder, but they do not produce the heavy, persistent snowfalls that occur in cities like Buffalo and Rochester.
2. Topography of the Finger Lakes Region
The terrain of Finger Lakes Wine Country plays a role in reducing snowfall. The region is characterized by rolling hills, valleys, and deep lakes that create a more sheltered environment compared to the open flat areas near the Great Lakes. These hills can block or weaken the lake-effect snow bands before they reach the Finger Lakes, preventing the area from experiencing the heavy snowfalls seen in nearby cities.
Additionally, the mountain ranges and higher elevations of northern Pennsylvania also contribute to more snow. In these regions, the wind patterns are more conducive to lifting moist air, which results in heavier snow. The Finger Lakes, on the other hand, are not as prone to these elevated snow-producing processes.
3. Wind Patterns and Lake Effect
The winds that bring lake-effect snow are generally westerly or northwesterly, blowing across the Great Lakes and onto the land. While Buffalo and Rochester are directly in the path of these winds, the Finger Lakes region is positioned more to the south and east, meaning it is shielded from the most intense lake-effect snow. The terrain of the Finger Lakes, with its valleys and the protection offered by the surrounding hills, means that many of the snow bands lose strength before reaching the area.
4. Influence of Northern Pennsylvania
Northern Pennsylvania, particularly areas like Erie and the Appalachian Mountains, is more likely to experience significant snowfall due to both lake-effect snow from Lake Erie and the upslope snow effect. The higher elevation and proximity to the Great Lakes in this region allow for more consistent snowfall throughout the winter. As the wind pushes moisture-laden air from the lakes, the air is forced upwards by the mountains, causing more precipitation in the form of snow.
The Finger Lakes region, by comparison, is lower in elevation and more shielded from these upslope effects, resulting in less frequent and less intense snowfall. The Finger Lakes’ climate is more moderate, and although snow can still fall, it is generally less persistent or heavy than in northern Pennsylvania or along the lakeshores of Buffalo and Rochester.
All this meteorology means….
Finger Lakes Wine Country gets less snow than Buffalo, Rochester, or northern Pennsylvania because of its inland location, further from the direct influence of lake-effect snow caused by the Great Lakes. The region’s rolling hills and valleys shield it from the worst of the lake-effect snow, and the milder temperatures due to the distance from the lakes further reduce snowfall. Additionally, northern Pennsylvania’s higher elevations and proximity to the Great Lakes make it more prone to consistent snowfall, while the Finger Lakes region experiences a more moderate winter climate overall.
So, even though our lakes—Cayuga, Seneca, and Keuka—are “great,” they are not large enough to make a significant impact on snowfall amounts. So, if you hear about blizzards in upstate New York, they’re likely NOT referring to Finger Lakes Wine Country, so don’t let a few snow flurries keep you from visiting!
Your tour continues on land with a short walk from our lake dock takes you to our exclusive natural shale patio that meets the waterfall’s edge. Enjoy a complimentary Finger Lakes beverage while viewing the beauty of the majestic 165 ft. lower Hector Falls from our patio or explore the waterfall just steps away.
Bring your water shoes and get up close walking the flat shale at the base of the falls as the refreshing water rolls over your feet. You can fully experience the tumbling water as it flows over the towering cliff. There is nothing more exhilarating!
Don’t want to get in the water? You can admire the falls from the patio just 40ft away or sit on the side of the falls while admiring its pure beauty and energy. There is nothing more relaxing than watching and listening to the falling water. Daydreaming, you might ask: “Is this heaven?”
What are you waiting for? Bring your camera! The views and experiences here make for a one-of-a-kind excursion you will always remember.
Grown Here, Made Here
The Seneca Lake Wine Trail consists of a collection of member wineries producing award-winning wines made entirely from grapes grown in the Seneca Lake AVA (American Viticultural Area). From grape-growing to production, the Seneca Lake Wine Trail is one of the largest cohesive wine trails in North America where you’re guaranteed to be sipping wine from the Seneca Lake terroir, or the natural environment from which a wine is produced, involving factors such as the soil, topography, and climate.
Meads, Ciders, and Brews – Oh my!
Besides being a haven for some unforgettable wineries, you can also find breweries, cideries, and even a meadery alongside the stunning scenery of lush vineyard landscapes and Seneca Lake. Earle Estates Meadery, Cider Tree at Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards, Wagner Valley Brewing at Wagner Vineyards, and War Horse Brewing and Red Apple Bombshell Hard Ciders at Three Brothers Winery & Estates are a few not to miss.
The Deepest Lake
Seneca Lake is not only the largest of the glacially-formed Finger Lakes, but is also the deepest lake within New York State. At 630 feet in depth, Seneca makes up 50% of the water in the Finger Lakes region. The depth of the lake helps moderate temperatures and contributes to the relatively mild climate every season. Seneca Lake’s southeastern shores are known as the “banana belt” because the afternoon sun lingers through the summer on its high, steep, shaley, west-facing slopes, making this small microclimate within the region unusually warm.
These conditions contribute to the favorable terroir which makes it ideal for grape growing and provides the perfect conditions for the cultivation of delicate Vinifera grapes used in wines like Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, and other award-winning hybrids and varietals familiar to the region.
The Towns of Seneca Lake
In addition to scenic views, wineries, waterfalls, and parks, there are charming towns along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail that are great stopping points.
At the northern tip of Seneca Lake you’ll find the town of Geneva, and at the southern tip is Watkins Glen, home of Watkins Glen International, the birthplace of American Road Racing, and of the waterfalls and trails in Watkins Glen State Park. Explore the town for lake views from Seneca Harbor, or take in the eateries and shops downtown. There are plenty of lodging options with easy access to all the Seneca Lake Wine Trail has to offer. Try the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, recently named America’s Most Beautiful Waterfront Hotel by USA Today readers, for lake luxury at its finest.
Fun Activities on Seneca Lake
From kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, boating, or riding aboard the historic ‘True Love’ Schooner at sunset, there are tons of fun activities to enjoy on and around Seneca Lake.
Explore the hiking trails along 19 cascading waterfalls in under 2 miles in Watkins Glen State Park.
Drive along Route 414 in Burdett and come upon the gorgeous roadside attraction of Hector Falls. You can safely pull over and get a close-up view, and you can catch a glimpse of the lower cascading falls from the lake.
Year-Round Getaway
The Seneca Lake Wine Trail is not just a summer destination. Tasting rooms, restaurants, and lodging are open year-round. Fall harvest time is an event within itself and different year-round holiday activities keep the region festive and fun. Outdoor lovers will always find plenty to do in the region, no matter the season.
Eateries Galore
There are lots of eateries to choose from as you explore the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. Driving up from Watkins Glen, on the west side on Route 14, you’ll find Veraisons Restaurant at the Inn at Glenora Wine Cellars, offering a new local menu each season along with a gorgeous view of Seneca Lake that’s perfect any time of year. Just up the road, don’t miss the FLX Wienery, a favorite for its eclectic choice of “upscale fair food” options and always friendly service.
On the east side of Seneca, traveling north on Route 414, at the Ginny Lee Café at Wagner Vineyards, you’ll find their beautiful view pairs perfectly with a menu of lunchtime favorites. Down the road, Elf in the Oak offers a great selection of salads and sandwiches to keep you energized, and Stonecat Café is a beloved farm-to-table experience with a Sunday Jazz Brunch you won’t want to miss. Grist Iron Brewing Company offers cold beer, local music, and great food (the wings are a must!). Many of the wineries on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail offer locally-made cheeses and other snacks to keep you satiated. Fox Run Vineyards, Three Brothers Winery & Estates, Belhurst Estate Winery, and Ventosa Vineyards all have restaurants on site. Be sure to check their listings for seasonal hours.
More Amazing Attractions
If wineries, breweries, distilleries, meaderies, lake activities, waterfalls, auto racing, and a state park weren’t enough reasons to make this a remarkable destination to explore, the Seneca Lake Wine Trail is just a short drive from some incredible small towns. Cities and villages throughout Finger Lakes Wine Country, such as Hammondsport, Corning, Penn Yan, Owego, and Elmira, offer outdoor activities, performance venues, museums, shops, dining, and much more.
A Year-Round Destination
Finger Lakes Wine Country offers a distinctive climate that changes beautifully through each season, providing unique experiences year-round. Whether you are drawn to the bud break of spring, serene lakes and rivers in summer, the snowy charm of winter, or the vibrant foliage of autumn, you’ll find plenty to explore in this breathtaking corner of New York. Here’s what to expect from the weather and how to dress during each season.
Spring
(April – May)
Spring in the Finger Lakes is a time of renewal, where nature comes alive after the cold winter months. Average daytime temperatures range from 50°F to 70°F, but evenings can be quite chilly, often dipping into the 30s or 40s. It’s a time when the grapevines begin to bud, and the local flora—tulips, daffodils, and lilacs—brighten the landscape with color.
What to Wear: Light layers are key. A light sweater or long-sleeved shirt under a jacket will keep you comfortable during the day, but don’t forget a heavier jacket or a warm sweater for the evening chill. Comfortable shoes for walking or exploring wineries are also recommended, as the terrain can be uneven, especially around the lake.
Summer
(June – August)
Summer in the Finger Lakes is a true highlight, with warm, pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities. Daytime highs typically range from 70°F to 80°F, with occasional hot spells pushing into the 90s. The area enjoys long, sunny days with cool, breezy evenings, especially near the water. The lakes sparkle under the summer sun, and outdoor festivals, boat tours, and wine tastings are in full swing.
What to Wear: During the day, lightweight clothing, such as shorts, breathable shirts, and a hat, is perfect for staying cool. Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen, as the sun can be strong, especially during midday. A light jacket or sweater might come in handy for cooler evenings by the lakes and rivers, and comfortable sandals or shoes are ideal for walking around festivals or the small towns, but don’t forget your hiking shoes and swimsuits for outdoor adventures!
Fall
(September – November)
Fall is an incredibly popular time to visit Finger Lakes Wine Country! The weather is crisp and cool, with daytime temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 60s°F, and evenings can drop to the 30s or 40s. The region’s famous fall foliage reaches its peak, painting the hillsides with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. The harvest season brings an aroma of freshly picked grapes and the chance to explore apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and U-pick farms.
What to Wear: As temperatures fluctuate, dressing in layers is essential. A warm jacket, a scarf, and a pair of gloves will be useful, especially on chilly mornings or evenings. A sturdy pair of boots is also recommended, as you’ll likely want to explore the vineyards or hike the picturesque trails near the lake. A cozy sweater or fleece can help keep you warm as you enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery.
Winter
(December – March)
Winter in the Finger Lakes brings a tranquil beauty to Finger Lakes Wine Country, with snow-covered landscapes and a quiet ambiance. Temperatures can vary significantly, ranging from sub-zero conditions to highs near 40°F. The area sees plenty of snowfall, which creates perfect conditions for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and other winter activities. While many of the area’s attractions slow down, it’s an ideal time for a peaceful retreat with fewer crowds. You can enjoy cozy firesides at local inns or indulge in winter wine tastings, including the special Ice Wine produced from frozen grapes.
What to Wear: Winter weather can be unpredictable, so make sure to pack heavy-duty cold-weather clothing. A thick, insulated coat, gloves, a scarf, and a warm hat are essential for staying comfortable outside. Thermal layers and waterproof boots will help you stay warm and dry during outdoor activities, especially if you plan to hike or snowshoe around the lake. A pair of wool socks and a cozy sweater will also keep you comfortable when you head indoors to enjoy a glass of wine by the fire.
No matter when you choose to visit Finger Lakes Wine Country, each season offers its own charm and opportunities to experience the region’s natural beauty and unique culture. From spring’s fresh blooms to winter’s snowy peace, the climate in this region makes it a year-round destination for those looking to enjoy outdoor adventures, local products, and breathtaking landscapes. Be sure to pack accordingly and get ready to explore New York’s most stunning region!
During your stay, visit our Tasting Room and Retail Shop up the hill to sample award-winning Finger Lakes wines or take a cellar tour. Afterward, enjoy a delicious meal at Veraisons Restaurant, offering locally sourced regional cuisine, along with a selection of local wines, beers, and spirits. Don’t forget to save room for dessert!
There are so many reasons to visit Finger Lakes Wine Country, including the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. We’ve shared tiny houses, glamping, B & B’s, and unique vacation rentals in the area. Now we’re showing you where to camp and hike on Seneca Lake. Including cabins, cottages, campsites, RV sites, and more.
Not only will you get a taste of local vintages on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. You can experience the thrills and excitement of Watkins Glen International raceway at one of the oldest lodging establishments in the area. Or stay at a resort with a waterfall on the property.
Campsites
Havana Glen Park
Havana Glen Park in Montour Falls, NY provides excellent outdoor opportunities including camping facilities, ball fields, playgrounds, and a short scenic hike through Havana Glen.
The park contains Eagle Cliff Falls along with various species of rare native New York State plants and has been classified as an important area for birding with over 100 species documented here making it perfect for hiking and exploring.
Goundry Hill State Forest
Goundry Hill State Forest in Beaver Dams, NY has no developed camping sites, however, at-large primitive camping is allowed in this unit. Except within 150 feet of any road, trail, spring, stream, pond, other body of water, or otherwise prohibited.
Finger Lakes RV Resort in Hector, NY is an adult-oriented, peaceful RV park located right in the heart of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail with two wineries and a diner adjacent to the property.
Their spacious sites feature full hookups, a gravel patio, and a large yard. Each site also includes a picnic table and a fire ring.
Smith Memorial Park
Just 8 miles north of Watkins Glen is Smith Memorial Park in Hector, NY. Here you’ll find wooded & lakefront campsites, swimming, boat launch, dumping station & hot showers. There are also walking trails on the property.
Watkins Glen State Park
Watkins Glen State Park is the most famous State Park in the region. Not only will you find tent and trailer campsites, picnic facilities, and an Olympic-size pool. There are 19 waterfalls and 9 great trails. Camping is available from early May to mid-October.
The Gorge Trail winds over and under waterfalls and through the spray of Cavern Cascade. This 0.7-mile loop trail is considered moderately challenging and takes an average of 24 minutes to complete. The best times to visit this trail are May through October. Dogs aren’t allowed on this trail.
The Watkins Glen South Rim Trail is a 2.6-miles out-and-back trail. It’s considered moderately challenging and takes an average of 1 h 21 min to complete. The best times to visit this trail are April through October. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
Southern Seneca Lake Serenity
Southern Seneca Lake Serenity in Watkins Glen, NY is perfect for the camping purist that thrives on pitching their own tent. This half-acre property has nearly 200 feet of gorgeous lake frontage. The site features a level tent site, fire pit, picnic table, porta-potty, small stream, shade, and trees.
The best hiking can be found less than three miles away at Watkins Glen State Park.
Sugar Hill Recreation Area + Sugar Hill State Forest
Sugar Hill Recreation Area in Watkins Glen, NY is the largest designated camping area on Sugar Hill State Forest. This nine-acre open field has a limited number of fire rings and picnic tables. Other facilities there include a picnic area with picnic tables, a pavilion, an accessible horse-mounting platform, and open horse stalls, during summer months a restroom with potable water is available. All facilities are carry in-carry out.
The gate is opened to vehicle traffic, and the water is turned on, from the 3rd Monday in May through the 3rd Monday in October of each year.
Fifteen additional designated campsites are located throughout Sugar Hill State Forest. In addition, at-large primitive camping is allowed in this unit, except within 150 feet of any road, trail, spring, stream, pond, other body of water, or otherwise prohibited. Here you’ll also find five Adirondack-style lean-to’s, at four different locations. Lean-to’s must be shared to their capacity on a first-come, first-use basis, with no exclusive reservation allowed.
Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger. No trash pickup is provided. Sugar Hill State Forest is home to the 12-thousand-acre Six Nations Trail System. Here you’ll find the Schyler County: Sugar Hill Trail. This 3.7-mile loop trail is considered easy. It takes an average of 1 h 33 min to complete and is open year-round, but can get muddy during the rainy season. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
Clute Memorial Park & Camping
Clute Memorial Park & Camping in Watkins Glen, NY offers tent sites, dock rentals, and full hook-up sites with electric (20, 30, and 50 amp), water, sewer, and cable. Here you’ll find tennis courts, a soccer field, swimming and bathhouses, picnic tables, a children’s playground, a skate park, and more!
Less than a five-minute drive away is Watkins Glen State Park where you can hike the Gorge Trail without your pup, or the Watkins Glen South Rim Trail with your dog on a leash. Additional outdoor activities include a boat launch adjacent to Clute Park along the Seneca / Erie Barge Canal.
Lake Grove Park
Lake Grove Park in Alpine, NY has boat rentals, cabins, and campsites on the shores of Cayuta Lake. In this setting, the park allows campers the opportunity to play and the solitude to rest. We strive to excel in all the services we provide.
The Catharine Valley Trail North is one of the most accessible trails on the list. This 4.5-miles out-and-back trail takes an average of 1 h 20 min to complete. The trailhead is on the Watkins Glen High School grounds. There are 2 designated accessible spaces in the paved parking lot off of 12th Street at the north end of the trail. Both of them are van-accessible with a striped access aisle.
The majority of the trail is estimated to be in the gentle grade category (3% or less). All-terrain tires or motorized equipment may be needed for the mostly unpaved surface type. There are benches and picnic tables along the route for resting.
Cabins
KOA Camping Resort
Most campers are familiar with Kampgrounds of America, the world’s largest system of privately held campgrounds. KOA Camping Resort in Watkins Glen, NY is the top-rated family campground with more than 35 Camping Cabins and Deluxe Cabins, full-featured BIG RIG RV sites, and free wifi. Touring RVers will love luxurious Sunset Acres, the quiet side of the park, where some of the sites have private gazebos. Adventure-seeking families may prefer to be close to Seneca Thrills, a family fun center. With an outdoor pool, indoor pool, spa, and fitness center, gigantic pirate ship playground, giant water slide, Army truck rides, and more.
Less than a five-minute drive away is Watkins Glen State Park where you can hike the Gorge Trail without your pup, or the Watkins Glen South Rim Trail with your dog on a leash.
Rustic Log Cabins
Originally built in the 1920s, Rustic Log Cabins in Hector, NY is one of the oldest lodging establishments in the area. Open May through October the view from the grounds takes in an apple orchard, rolling vineyards, and Seneca Lake.
All four spacious cabins have electricity, hardwood floors, a fireplace, table, chairs, comfortable beds, dressers, stove, and fridge. Two of the cabins will accommodate three people and the other two will accommodate up to six.
The South Slope Trail is an easy 1.1-mile out-and-back trail near Hector, New York. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 27 min to complete. This trail is great for hiking and walking, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
The Vineyard Villas
At The Vineyard Villas in Burdett, NY you can wake up to the panoramic view of Seneca lake and the surrounding wineries. Here you’ll find one bedroom two-story villas with a deck and balcony. Fully-equipped kitchens are available if you decide to make your own meals, as well as an outdoor grill.
The best hiking near Burdett is in the Finger Lakes National Forest. Here you’ll find 12 different easy and moderate trails to enjoy. The Interloken Trail is an 11.3 miles point-to-point trail and is considered moderately challenging. It takes an average of 3 h 54 min to complete. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. While the Finger Lakes Gorge Trail is an easy 2.3-mile out-and-back that takes an average of an hour to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and walking. Both trails allow dogs on leashes. The best times to visit these trails are April through September.
Paradise Park Campground
Paradise Park Campground in Reading, NY offers 160 acres of wooded and open space. Along with a well-stocked store, clean facilities, and convenient hook-ups. Kids can enjoy many activities: ping pong, volleyball, the arcade, badminton, the playground, miniature golf, the archery practice range, and even join in on the fun of a hayride! The whole family will enjoy swimming in the Olympic Heated Pool.
Check out the 19 waterfalls and 9 hiking trails at Watkins Glen State Park which is less than a fifteen-minute drive away.
Cool-Lea Campground
Cool-Lea Campground in Odessa, NY is great for family camping. There are cabins, a cottage, and a camper available along with tent and RV sites. Guests can enjoy boating, fishing, or canoeing on Cayuta Lake. This fishing paradise is known to have Largemouth Bass, Walleye, Yellow Perch, Bluegill, Pumpkinseed, Rock Bass, Brown Bullhead, and more flourishing in the crystal clear waters.
The kids will love the playground, game room, pavilion, walking trails, and hayrides. Nearby you can plan a short but moderately challenging hike to Eagle Cliffs Falls in Havana Glen Park. Dogs are welcome on leashes on this 0.3-miles out-and-back trail. The best time to visit is May through October.
Catharine Cottages
Catharine Cottages in Montour Falls, NY offers four private and comfortable cottages on Catharine Creek. The cabin comes with everything you need wifi, AC, a full bathroom, mini fridge, microwave, and firewood on property. At this pet-friendly property, you can listen to the soothing sounds of Catharine Creek from your private porch.
We highly recommend Eagle Cliffs Falls in Havana Glen Park or the Gorge Trail in Watkins Glen State Park for anyone who wants to retreat into nature.
Spring’s Retreat
Escape the hustle and bustle of life at Spring’s Retreat in Montour Falls, NY. This 2-story cabin is surrounded by woods and wildlife and is equipped with a full kitchen, barbeque, fire pit, and water garden.
For an easy hike try Willow Walk Trail at the nearby Catharine Creek Wildlife Management Area. This 2.4-miles out-and-back trail is open year-round and takes an average of 41 min to complete. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
Lakeside Resort
Choose from cabins, the motel, and the Lodge at the Lakeside Resort in Watkins Glen, NY. This 30-acre property gives you some space to breathe and a quiet place to relax with walking trails, small waterfalls, and beautiful Seneca lake views.
All of the rooms are clean and comfortable and have a coffee machine, microwave, small refrigerator, private bathroom, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, and more.
Watkins Glen State Park is one of the most well-known parks in the region. Within five miles, the glen’s stream features 19 waterfalls viewable from the 9 hiking trails.
Seneca Heights Cabins
At Seneca Heights Cabins in Watkins Glen, NY you’ll find two charming cabins perfect for a romantic getaway. Here you’ll find the comforts of home including an electric fireplace, ceiling fans, and a small kitchenette area that includes a fridge, microwave, and hot drink facilities. Outside, in the communal area, you’ll find the firepit, barbecues, and full bathroom facilities. This pet-friendly property also has a pond for guests to enjoy.
Located less than three miles south of Watkins Glen State Park this is your best bet for hiking in the area.
Seneca Lodge
The Seneca Lodge in Watkins Glen, NY has been a landmark for vacationers, sportsmen, and racing enthusiasts for more than 50 years. The Log Cabins include a private bath and are available with one bed or two. Each has a large family room, fireplace, kitchen, and a front porch. The four-bedroom Log Cabin fills quickly, so make reservations early. There are also two 2 chalet-style A-frames available with three bedrooms, a family room, a kitchen, and a small front porch. The Motel offers rooms with a single king bed, 2 double beds, or 2 queen beds. All accommodations have cable tv, wifi, and ac/heat.
Located less than a mile south of Watkins Glen State Park this is your best bet for hiking in the area.
Scottish Glen Bed & Breakfast
Scottish Glen Bed & Breakfast in Dundee, NY hosts two bedrooms that overlook Seneca Lake. The Waterfront Cottage/Cabin is a post and beam construction from an 1860s barn, rebuilt on the waterfront. The Cottage sleeps 6 in 2 rustic lofts, has a 50-foot dock for fishing, and swimming, a full kitchen, a wood-burning stone fireplace, and a row boat available.
This is a family-friendly property where guests can enjoy a tennis court, picnicking on the grounds, 30 acres of woods for hiking, and a lakefront area. A delicious country breakfast is served each morning and their extensive patio provides a wonderful lake view to watch an early sunrise.
Back Achers Campsites & Cottages
Back Achers Campsites & Cottages is the only private campground facility located on beautiful Seneca Lake with private lake frontage. They offer cottage rentals, RV sites, and tent camping. Along with rowboat rentals, paddle boat rentals, and boat hoist rentals. Three of their cottages feature a dock and hoist for guest use.
Sugar Hill State Forest is a 30-minute drive away. The Finger Lakes Trail to South Rim Trail is perfect for a more experienced hiker. This 11.3-miles point-to-point trail is considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 50 min to complete. This trail has great views and is perfect for those seeking solitude.
