Chasing Waterfalls
Chasing Waterfalls: Gorge Trails & Day Trips from Hickory Hill
The Finger Lakes were carved by glaciers, and the region has been paying it forward ever since in the form of deep gorges, mossy cliffs, and hundreds of waterfalls. Some of the most spectacular ones in the state are a short drive from Bath, which makes Hickory Hill a natural home base for a day of chasing water.
Whether you want a bucket-list gorge hike or an easy overlook the whole family can handle, here are the best Finger Lakes waterfalls and gorge trails near the resort.
Watkins Glen State Park (about 37 minutes away)
If you visit one gorge, make it this one. Watkins Glen is the most famous state park in the Finger Lakes, and for good reason. The Gorge Trail runs roughly two miles past nineteen waterfalls, winding over and under the water on stone paths, through the Spiral Tunnel, and across a suspension bridge that hangs about 85 feet above the creek. There are more than 800 stone steps along the way, so wear good shoes and take your time.
It is about 26 miles from Bath, an easy 37-minute drive. Go early in the day, especially on fall weekends, to beat the crowds and get the best light in the gorge. The gorge trails are seasonal and typically open from mid-spring into late fall, so check the park's status before a shoulder-season visit.
Stony Brook State Park (near Dansville)
Closer to home, Stony Brook State Park sits just south of Dansville, roughly a half-hour from the resort. Its shaded gorge has three larger waterfalls plus a handful of smaller ones, and in summer there is a natural stream-fed swimming area that kids love.
One important note: after heavy rain, gorge trails here can close for safety and repairs, so always check current conditions with New York State Parks before you make the drive. It is good practice for any gorge hike in the region.
Right in Bath: Mossy Bank Park
Not every great view requires a road trip. Mossy Bank Park, right in Bath, offers an easy nature-trail network and a bluff-top overlook with a sweeping view over the valley and the village below. It is a low-effort, high-reward stop, perfect for sunset, a picnic, or a short leg-stretch when you do not have a full day to spare.
Grimes Glen (Naples, about 40 minutes)
For something more rugged, Grimes Glen in Naples rewards a bit of adventure. A creekside trail leads back to a pair of tall waterfalls, and in warm weather part of the fun is wading up the shallow stream to reach them. It is best for older kids and sure-footed hikers, and it is at its most magical when the fall color comes in overhead.
Tips for chasing waterfalls with the family
● Wear real shoes. Gorge trails are wet, uneven, and full of stairs. Skip the flip-flops.
● Go early. The famous parks fill up by late morning on nice days. Early hikers get quiet trails and better photos.
● Check conditions after rain. Trails can close for safety when water is high. A quick check on the state parks site saves a wasted trip.
● Bring water and a picnic. Most of these parks have picnic areas, so pack a lunch and make a half-day of it.
Waterfalls and fall color go hand in hand, so pair a gorge hike with a scenic drive from our Finger Lakes fall foliage guide. Planning a full day out with the kids? Our family camping itinerary helps you map it all.
Come back to camp
The best part of a waterfall day is coming back to a campfire and an easy evening. After the trails, Hickory Hill has the pools, the playgrounds, and the wide-open space to unwind, plus comfortable sites and cabins waiting for you. Compare every way to stay and make the resort your launch pad for the Finger Lakes' best waterfalls.