Watkins Glen Gorge Walk - Watkins Glen, NY
Watkins Glen Gorge Walk: Pet-Friendly Trails & Hiking in Watkins Glen, New York
The Watkins Glen Gorge Walk is a breathtaking natural attraction in Watkins Glen, New York, known for its stunning waterfalls, scenic stone bridges, and dramatic cliffs. Visitors are drawn to this peaceful and serene environment, perfect for a nature escape. While the main Gorge Trail is not dog-friendly, four-legged companions are welcome on the nearby Rim Trail, which offers wooded pet-friendly hiking where you can still hear the rushing water below. This makes it a great option for dog owners seeking a dog park alternative and pet-friendly trails in the Finger Lakes region.
While the area lacks dedicated fenced areas or off-leash dog parks, responsible pet owners will find that leashed dogs can enjoy a pleasant, shaded walk along the upper paths. Early arrival is recommended to avoid crowds and secure parking. Please remember that dogs must remain on-leash at all times, and be prepared for a moderately challenging hike with elevation changes and some slippery spots. Check local guidelines for any updates about trail construction or pet policies during your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions about Watkins Glen Gorge Walk
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, dogs must be kept on-leash on the pet-friendly Rim Trail.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there are no fenced or designated off-leash dog areas at this park.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs must be leashed at all times when visiting the Rim Trail.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, dog-friendly hiking is available on the Rim Trail, but not on the Gorge Trail.
- Where is the best place to park? There are several parking lots at various entrances (main, south, and middle); they fill up early, so early arrival is best.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? The park can become crowded, especially on weekends and during peak times.
Reviews
Construction made us take the stairs up and then back down to walk the rest of the lower trail. Definitely got the heart rate climbing quickly. It was crowded and crowds make me cranky, but the gorge itself is spectacular.
Construction made us take the stairs up and then back down to walk the rest of the lower trail. Definitely got the heart rate climbing quickly. It was crowded and crowds make me cranky, but the gorge itself is spectacular.
I would have given this 5 stars but the lack of signs really makes it difficult to know where to go and also what you are in for. When we were done hiking and heading back to the car we had to go up 180 stairs. I only knew that because I asked someone passing by and counted as I walked up the stairs. I thought he was exaggerating. 😳 the views were worth it though! Wear shoes with traction that you don’t mind getting soaked.
I would have given this 5 stars but the lack of signs really makes it difficult to know where to go and also what you are in for. When we were done hiking and heading back to the car we had to go up 180 stairs. I only knew that because I asked someone passing by and counted as I walked up the stairs. I thought he was exaggerating. 😳 the views were worth it though! Wear shoes with traction that you don’t mind getting soaked.
I would have given this 5 stars but the lack of signs really makes it difficult to know where to go and also what you are in for. When we were done hiking and heading back to the car we had to go up 180 stairs. I only knew that because I asked someone passing by and counted as I walked up the stairs. I thought he was exaggerating. 😳 the views were worth it though! Wear shoes with traction that you don’t mind getting soaked.
This is a beautiful gorge with waterfalls I have been to many times. Peaceful and serene. Of course it gets crowded but there is always an opportunity to take great photos. Currently there is construction going on in the main north entrance and so some part of the gorge trail cannot be seen. Keep in mind that there is a lot of steps so be aware of your own limitations. But not that far. South entrance might be easier. Nice gift shop. Main entrance parking lot can get full but there is one across the street.
This is a beautiful gorge with waterfalls I have been to many times. Peaceful and serene. Of course it gets crowded but there is always an opportunity to take great photos. Currently there is construction going on in the main north entrance and so some part of the gorge trail cannot be seen. Keep in mind that there is a lot of steps so be aware of your own limitations. But not that far. South entrance might be easier. Nice gift shop. Main entrance parking lot can get full but there is one across the street.
This is a beautiful gorge with waterfalls I have been to many times. Peaceful and serene. Of course it gets crowded but there is always an opportunity to take great photos. Currently there is construction going on in the main north entrance and so some part of the gorge trail cannot be seen. Keep in mind that there is a lot of steps so be aware of your own limitations. But not that far. South entrance might be easier. Nice gift shop. Main entrance parking lot can get full but there is one across the street.
Beautiful Gorge with pleasant views of pools and waterfalls. We visit it in the middle of September, weather was nice not too hot. park in the middle section and pay for the shuttle to take us to the top part. 3 generations visiting the Gorge, my mother walks slowly and therefore decided to star form the top of the Park and slowly go down to the middle section where we park our car. Going down is a lot easier for people with mobility issues. Whish the bottom section was open but they are having the trail under construction.
Beautiful Gorge with pleasant views of pools and waterfalls. We visit it in the middle of September, weather was nice not too hot. park in the middle section and pay for the shuttle to take us to the top part. 3 generations visiting the Gorge, my mother walks slowly and therefore decided to star form the top of the Park and slowly go down to the middle section where we park our car. Going down is a lot easier for people with mobility issues. Whish the bottom section was open but they are having the trail under construction.