Snow bridge

The weather outside may be frightful, but the activities in Schuyler county are absolutely delightful! From outdoor adventures, to spirit tastings, to light shows, this area has a guaranteed cure for winter boredom. Explore Watkins Glen and make some fantastic memories this winter.

On the Trails:

  • Visit Finger Lakes National Forest for a variety of winter outdoor activities! Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are just some of the exceptional experiences that are offered here. Stop by the Hector Ranger Station located off of NY-414 and pick up some information and a map. Additionally, the Burnt Hill Trail in the Finger Lakes National Forest is easily accessible and features spectacular views.

  • Partake in more winter outdoor activities on the Catherine Valley Trail. With parking areas at trailheads, this trail accommodates all fitness levels.

  • Register for an Ice Falls Tour - a brand-new tour, tailor-made for wintertime enthusiasts!

  • Visit Watkins Glen State Park. Even though the Gorge trail is closed during the winter, you can view the dynamic frozen falls from above from the Suspension Bridge. You can access the bridge from the South Entrance (3528 Route 419 Watkins Glen). A must-do for photography fanatics! 

  • Travel South on Route14 toward Montour Falls and make note of all the small falls and ice formations on the cliffs along the way. At the end of this picturesque drive, you will come to Aunt Sarah’s Falls, a charming waterfall accessible directly from the road - perfect for selfies. Continuing into the village of Montour Falls you will come across the easily accessible Shequaga Falls, this spectacular waterfall is sometimes known as “Hallmark Falls”, as popularized by a Hallmark Channel Mystery Series. 

 

Drinks pouring at Ice Bar 

Uniquely Watkins:

  • Within the Watkins Glen area, there is an abundance of world-class wine and craft beverage experiences for all tastes. Taste and tour our region's incredible array of wineries, breweries, cideries, and distilleries, all with their own unique offerings and scenic views. 

  • Check out the events page for Seneca Lake Wine Trail to stay up to date on all wine-centric happenings. Themed wine trails, pop-up shops, and specialty tastings are incredibly common in this area, and the winter season is no exception!

  • Schedule a workshop to craft your own unique blend of gin with Finger Lakes Distilling VIP OriGINal Gin Workshop. Let the experts guide you as you take a tour of their facility then get down to the art of making gin. Pick your unique blend of botanicals to craft your signature gin. At the end of your adventure, you will receive 40 bottles of your custom-blended recipe. 

  • Buy tickets for the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel Ice Bar (January 26 - 28, 2023) -  An amazing experience of ice and fire! Ice carvings, martini luges, fire pits, chowder, chili, and fireworks over the harbor. 

  • Walk through the awe-inspiring Dazzlingliffe Festival of lights at Castel Grisch Winery. Enjoy 1.5 miles of whimsical light displays including, animals, dinosaurs and other wild creatures. This fantastic trail is sure to entertain adults and children of all ages.  

 

light festival

Lodging:

  • Beekman House Bed and Breakfast - A beautifully restored Victorian manor, centrally located between Seneca and Keuka Lakes. An experience in itself, enjoy a spacious room with a private bath and gourmet dining. Surround yourself in history in this grand bed and breakfast.
  • Harbor Hotel Watkins Glen - Perched on the southern end of scenic Seneca Lake this elegant hotel is the perfect location for unforgettable views. Placed directly in Watkins Glen, its location is unrivaled for events, tours, and sightseeing.
  • Lodge at Grist Iron - The only lodging in the Finger Lakes to have an onsite microbrewery!  Positioned overlooking the lake this dog-friendly location has views galore. Enjoy a hike on their onsite trail or a s’more at their outdoor fire pit. 

Extraordinary Eats:

  • Elevate your dinner plans with a trip to Graft Wine & Cider Bar. As one of the newer eateries in Watkins Glen, Graft serves inventive tapas and entrees that are sure to please the entire table. Stop in and see what they have cooking!

  • Have a classic Italian meals at Jerlando's Ristorante and Pizza Co. They feature homemade pizza, pasta, and many other delicious classics. You cannot go wrong with their scrumptious food and unique dining area.

  • Warm up with a cup of freshly brewed tea from Pangea Global Teahouse. Inspired by international cuisine, Pangea makes global dishes accessible for everyone in Schuyler county. Travel around the world without even leaving the dinner table!

  • Listen to some live music while having a bite to eat at Solera Tap House. This tap house provides a casual and rustic atmosphere that will make you feel like a local. They have 16 craft beers on tap, signature cocktails, and a pub-inspired menu that keeps things simple!