As Buffalonians, we’re more than familiar with encountering magical natural wonders – just take Eternal Flame Falls for example! Thankfully though, another perk of living out in this area of New York is that we’re also close to other amazing towns and regions that give us the chance to hop in the car and enjoy unforgettable trips. The very next time you’re feeling adventurous, consider spending the day exploring possibly the most enchanting natural attraction in the entire Empire State. You may feel like you’re in an actual fairy tale when you spend some quality time discovering the awe-inspiring wonders found within the following deep green gorge near Buffalo located in Schuyler County.
At the southern end of Seneca Lake, Watkins Glen State Park is one of the most jaw-dropping places that you’ll ever have the luxury of seeing in real life.
Mattia Panciroli/Flickr
All it takes is a scenic drive out to the Finger Lakes to experience all this state park has to offer. Even the entrance is welcoming, as it was recently renovated over the last several years.
Marshall B/TripAdvisor
Encompassing more than 700 acres, this massive state park is one that you can easily spend all day exploring — and trust us, you’ll want to.
Jaiprakash Shrivastav/Google
Watkins Glen State Park is most famous for its Gorge Trail, an adventure that belongs on absolutely everyone’s bucket list.
Andy Arthur/Flickr
Over the course of the two-mile trail, you’ll climb more than 800 stone steps and will find yourself walking behind more waterfalls than you knew imaginable.
Sandor Weisz/Flickr
This lush, green gorge is truly a destination that looks too dreamy to be real. It’s hard to believe that all it takes is a relatively short drive east from Buffalo to become immersed in this natural wonder.
Eric Kilby/Flickr
During the summer months, you’ll find people from all over the world visiting the park.
Fred Murphy/Flickr
So if you plan on attending during peak season, be sure to arrive as early as you can to beat the crowds.
Fred Murphy/Flickr
With the waterfalls of the Watkins Glen gorge cascading through the park like a staircase, you’ll be rendered speechless as you witness all of the nearly 20 major waterfalls that you’ll pass along this trail.
Mattia Panciroli/Flickr
Minnehaha Falls even cascades down into a heart-shaped pool that’s become one of the most photographed spots in the entire park!
Orbital Joe/Flickr
If you’re ready to experience the most magical gorge near Buffalo, then grab your most sturdy pair of shoes and take the drive out to Watkins Glen State Park to hike through the Gorge Trail.
Chris/Flickr Are you ready for a walk through this lush, green gorge near Buffalo? To find out more about Watkins Glen State Park and to view the official trail maps, click here.
Address: 1009 North Franklin Street, Watkins Glen, NY, 14891
If you’re ready to hike through more amazing gorges to reach emerald bodies of water, check out The Natural Swimming Hole Near Buffalo That Will Take You Back To The Good Old Days!
Mattia Panciroli/Flickr
Marshall B/TripAdvisor
Jaiprakash Shrivastav/Google
Andy Arthur/Flickr
Sandor Weisz/Flickr
Eric Kilby/Flickr
Fred Murphy/Flickr
Orbital Joe/Flickr
Chris/Flickr
Are you ready for a walk through this lush, green gorge near Buffalo? To find out more about Watkins Glen State Park and to view the official trail maps, click here.
Address: 1009 North Franklin Street, Watkins Glen, NY, 14891
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