Watkins Glen Park is a must-see destination for Geneseo students
One of the perks of attending school at SUNY Geneseo is its geographical location—here, we are lucky to be a relatively short distance away from many noteworthy natural sites and parks. Watkins Glen State Park is just one of the many nearby, and it is considered to be one of the best parks in the region. Settled in the town of Watkins Glen, New York, the park itself is definitely a must-visit, especially to any person within driving distance.
Watkins Glen is an exceptional site that rivals destinations like Letchworth State Park, which is considered one of the best in the country. Upon entering the main entrance, visitors at Watkins Glen are immediately greeted with a wall of several signs that explain the region's human and natural history. This is a greatly beneficial feature provided by the park, as it allows for visitors to stay mindful of their surroundings and to understand the significance of several of the stops along the way.
One of the highlights of a trip to Watkins Glen is the immediate stunning view that greets you after walking up a steep wall of stairs. Once at the top, you can turn to see the elevation you have gained and the never-ending array of trees lining the rolling hills of the landscape. Depending on the time of the year you visit, you may see a view of colorful, autumn leaves, or a lush green patch of trees.
As you hike along the gorge, you will eventually come to a large historic train bridge. It sits far above the Glen Creek and is actually a replacement for a previous bridge that was swept away by a powerful flood in 1935.
It seems there is no area within the park, at least within the immediate vicinity of the gorge, that is not wet, so it would be wise to come prepared with waterproof shoes. But the water gives the park its beauty. Water pours down the Glen creek that has been carved through the gorge and provides several gorgeous waterfalls. There are even some you can stand behind and watch as the water comes crashing down above you.
Apart from just the park itself, the ride there is filled with stunning beauty. Thanks to its location in the Finger Lakes region, there is never a time when there isn’t a camera-worthy shot. Based just a short distance away from Seneca Lake, Watkins Glen is one of the best state parks in all of New York.
Watkins Glen is a park definitely worth the visit for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. The variety throughout the park is what makes it such an interesting visit. The trail along the gorge is not an exceptionally challenging hike, so expert to novice hikers alike are encouraged to give it a try. And considering the park is less than two hours away, it is definitely worth a visit for any Geneseo student looking to spend a day outside.