The visitor center at Watkins Glen State Park is open daily from mid-May to late June from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, and from late June to early September from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. From early September to October, it’s open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM on weekends and holidays.
The entrance fee at Watkins Glen State Park is $10 per vehicle during peak season (May through October) and $8 per vehicle during the off-season. You can also purchase an Empire Pass for $80 per year or $65 for a season pass. Pedestrians and cyclists enter free. Groups of more than two people may incur an additional per-person fee.
By Car: Drive to 1009 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891—about 4.5 hr from NYC, 2.5 hr from Buffalo, or 2 hr from Syracuse. By Bus/Train: No direct service; take bus or Amtrak to Ithaca or Elmira, then rent a car or arrange a shuttle. By Air: Fly into Elmira/Corning Regional (ELM) or Ithaca Tompkins (ITH), rent a car for the 30-40 min drive.
At Watkins Glen State Park, park at the main entrance on North Franklin Street for easiest access. Three main lots: Main Entrance (100 cars), South Entrance (100 cars near pool), and North Entrance (25 cars). No overnight parking. $10 daily fee. No specific RV or motorcycle restrictions mentioned.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Nestled in New York’s Finger Lakes region, Watkins Glen State Park is a marvel of cascading waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and lush greenery. The park’s famous Gorge Trail winds for two miles through a narrow gorge featuring 19 waterfalls, including Rainbow Falls and the 60-foot Cavern Cascade. Visitors can explore scenic overlooks along the Indian Trail or hike the South Rim Trail for serene views. From wildlife like white-tailed deer and red-tailed hawks to picnicking by Glen Creek, Watkins Glen offers an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers and families alike.
- Area (mi²)
- 1.5
- Annual visitors
- 1 400 000
- Established year
- 1863
Top 3 Facts about Watkins Glen State Park
The gorge, carved by a stream, features a 120-meter deep narrow passage with 19 waterfalls along a 3.2 kilometers long trail, showcasing the transformative power of water over rock.
Carved by glaciers over millennia, the gorge’s geological formations showcase ancient Ice Age history.
Reaches depths up to 400 feet, creating dramatic cliffs and waterfalls.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Volunteer & Stewardship
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Check the park website for trail conditions, closures, and special events; visit on weekdays to avoid crowds; reserve campsites early.
Pack Appropriately
Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes with good traction; avoid open-toed shoes or sandals; bring layered clothing and rain gear.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, never feed animals, and store food securely to avoid attracting wildlife.
Stay Informed
Stay on designated trails, obey signs and warnings, and avoid off-trail exploration to protect both safety and the environment.
Seasons
Late April–early June: park bursts with wildflowers, rushing waterfalls, and moderate temperatures—ideal for hiking.
June–August: warm days & long daylight for hiking, picnicking, and scenic trails; vibrant greenery and full waterfall flow.
Late September–early November: cooler air, brilliant autumn foliage, quieter trails, perfect for photography and leisure hikes.
December–February: snow-blanketed gorge, frozen waterfalls, serene winter hikes; some facilities closed—prepare for cold.