When you are traveling to the Finger Lake region of New York, one of the most impressive (and largest) lakes that you will want to visit is the Seneca Lake. This lake is actually the deepest of all the Finger Lakes, and can reach depths over 600 feet (183 meters) and runs almost 38 miles (61 kilometers) in length. The region is also known for its expansive vineyards and grape growing areas, due to the fact that this large lake moderates the climate surrounding it.
Seneca Lake is also safe swimming spot with very clear and clean water. If you are interested in swimming, I highly recommend a visit to the Seneca Lake State Park. This park has biking and walking paths, picnic areas, a spray park to cool down, and of course, designated swimming spots. They are located at 1 Lake Front Drive, Geneva, NY 14456, and as a side note, there is also a small parking fee. (This blog post reviews the area of Seneca Lake in Watkins Glen, but the state park is only a little more then a half hour drive if you were looking for a swimming spot on the lake. Also, the locals in the area mentioned this was a wonderful swimming area, so it is definitely recommended!)
https://parks.ny.gov/parks/senecalake/details.aspx
If you enjoy fishing, this is also a wonderful place to visit. The lake has a variety of fish including Lake Trout, Northern Pike, Atlantic Salmon, Bluegill, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Brown Trout, Brown Bullhead, Pumpkin Seed, Smelt, and even Yellow Perch. It makes sense that so many fish enjoy this lake, especially since it has the largest water volume of all the Finger Lakes!
https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/25574.html
Seneca Lake derives its name from the native Seneca Nation Of Indians. The Seneca originally occupied the Finger Lakes in Central New York, and also in the Genesee Valley in Western New York, residing in longboats along the riversides. I think it is crucial that we respect the original people that inhabited this beautiful place, and their history here as well.
Also, there have been recent historical finds of shipwrecks in Seneca Lake, which is being documented by the Seneca Lake Archaeological & Bathymetric Survey. They are in the process of discovering sunken Erie Canal-era vessels lost during the early and mid-19th century. As of now, there have been 17 vessels that have been found while studying the Seneca Lake. Historically, the Erie Canal was a major transporter of goods during that time period, so it would make sense that so many boats are being discovered!
When my husband and I traveled up to the Finger Lakes, we stayed in Watkins Glen, and we were so impressed at the massive size, and also the beauty of Seneca Lake. The area in general is amazing for hiking with so many interesting spots to check out (such as the famous Watkins Glen State Park.) For a frame of reference, we visited the southern area of the lake at Harbor Park.
Hiking In Watkins Glen State Park
It might have been because it was October, but it was not too busy when we hiked around the area. We really enjoyed visiting this time of year, because the crowd size was not too large, and many of the places were still open. If you are planning a trip to the Finger Lakes in general, a lot of the hiking areas do open up in late spring, and then close down closer to winter. There are definitely many spots that are still open, but it is just something to be aware of when you are booking a vacation or trip.
This YouTube video gives a great perspective on the area, and it was taken right from the edge of the Seneca Lake in Watkins Glen, so make sure that you check it out! (Also, make sure that you subscribe to my YouTube Channel!)
Seneca Lake is such a great spot to visit in the Finger Lakes, and I highly recommend a stop here. The location is a great area for a day trip, and whether you want to go for a hike, pack a picnic, or even go for a swim, it is a wonderful place to check out. Let me know in the comments if you have ever traveled here as well, and what you thought of it! I hope that you are having a wonderful day, and remember to click the like and subscribe button!
-Hiking Boots
The more that we explore new places, the more important it is to wear safe hiking gear, and of course hiking boots. I really love my hiking boots because they feel super cozy, warm, flexible, and of course the most crucial element of all for safety is that they are non slip! When I have gone hiking for hours at a time, they are really comfortable, which is great when you are traveling on the road.
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-YouTube Channel
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-Great Blog Posts For Finger Lake Travel Information
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The Best Things To Do In Watkins Glen New York
The Best Pizza Near Watkins Glen New York
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