The Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes are a group of 11 long, narrow, roughly parallel lakes located in the west-central portion of Upstate New York in the United States. The region is known for its beautiful natural scenery, outdoor recreational opportunities, and the production of wine.
The Finger Lakes get their name from the shape of the lakes, which are long and thin, resembling fingers on a hand. The lakes were formed by glacial erosion and are some of the deepest in the United States. The largest of the Finger Lakes is Cayuga Lake, followed by Seneca Lake, which is the second largest.
The Finger Lakes region is home to a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and skiing. The Finger Lakes Trail, a 950-mile footpath that runs through the region, is popular with hikers and backpackers. The lakes themselves are also popular for boating, fishing, and swimming. In the winter, the region is known for its downhill and cross-country skiing.
The Finger Lakes region is also known for its wine industry. The area has a long history of grape cultivation and winemaking, dating back to the 19th century. The region is home to over 100 wineries and is known for producing high-quality Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Cabernet Franc wines. The Finger Lakes Wine Festival, held annually in July, attracts thousands of visitors and showcases the region’s best wines.
In addition to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, the Finger Lakes region is also home to a number of cultural attractions. The Corning Museum of Glass, located in the city of Corning, is a popular destination for visitors interested in the history of glassmaking. The Rockwell Museum, also located in Corning, features a collection of art and artifacts from the American West. The Finger Lakes region is also home to a number of state parks, including Watkins Glen State Park, which features a series of waterfalls and hiking trails.
Overall, the Finger Lakes region is a beautiful and diverse destination that offers something for everyone. From its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities to its rich cultural heritage and thriving wine industry, the Finger Lakes are a must-visit destination in Upstate New York.
Attractions Nearby:
- Watkins Glen State Park: Located in the village of Watkins Glen, approximately 15 miles south of the center of the Finger Lakes region.
- Corning Museum of Glass: Located in the city of Corning, approximately 35 miles northwest of the center of the Finger Lakes region.
- Rockwell Museum: Also located in Corning, approximately 35 miles northwest of the center of the Finger Lakes region.
- Finger Lakes Wine Festival: Held annually in July in the city of Hammondsport, approximately 25 miles southwest of the center of the Finger Lakes region.
- Finger Lakes Trail: This 950-mile footpath runs through the Finger Lakes region and can be accessed from multiple locations.
- Seneca Lake: The second-largest of the Finger Lakes, Seneca Lake is located in the center of the Finger Lakes region.
- Cayuga Lake: The largest of the Finger Lakes, Cayuga Lake is located in the center of the Finger Lakes region.
- Taughannock Falls State Park: Located on the western shore of Cayuga Lake, approximately 20 miles northwest of the center of the Finger Lakes region.
- Keuka Lake: One of the “Y-shaped” Finger Lakes, Keuka Lake is located approximately 15 miles northwest of the center of the Finger Lakes region.
- letchworth state park: Located in the Genesee River valley, approximately 45 miles southeast of the center of the Finger Lakes region.
Please note that these distances are approximate and may vary depending on the specific location within the Finger Lakes region.
