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Finger Lakes Outdoor Activities Guide

Looking for things to do in Finger Lakes, NY? The ThisFinger Lakes region was made for outdoor enthusiasts, offering experiences as diverse as its landscapes. With rolling hills, deep valleys, and abundant lakes carved by prehistoric glaciers, this is nature’s playground. Each season transforms the opportunities to explore, from snow-covered winter trails and vibrant fall foliage to blooming springs and farm- fresh summers, giving year-round opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Here, you’ll find everything from hiking, biking, paddling, fishing, and one-of-a-kind natural wonders where you can slow down and experience sustainable travel firsthand. What makes us special isn’t just our unique geology, but the warmth of the friendly communities in and between every historic city and rural town. So come explore, unwind, and discover all this captivating region has to offer.

Experience the Finger Lakes like a Local

The Finger Lakes Region is known for its dramatic landscapes and accessibility to the great outdoors. Here, we encourage you to explore the Finger Lakes like a local. From breweries to hidden waterfalls, this guide features some of the many attractions found in the video above. 

Waterfalls and Trails in the Finger Lakes

• Letchworth State Park, Livingston County
  Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” locals love its dramatic gorge views, miles of hiking trails, and the Autism Nature Trail, a sensory-rich path built for inclusivity.
• Taughannock Falls State Park, Tompkins County
  A go-to for locals seeking one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rockies and a quiet beach on Cayuga Lake.
• Keuka Lake Outlet Trail, Yates County
  This historic trail links Keuka and Seneca Lakes, ideal for walkers, bikers, and even paddlers alongside canal ruins and small cascades.
• Erie Canalway Trail, Fairport, Ontario County
  A scenic, bikeable piece of history winding through vibrant towns and picturesque countryside. 
• Autism Nature Trail, Letchworth State Park
  A nationally recognized inclusive experience with activity stations and nature play elements designed for neurodiverse explorers.

Sip & Savor the Region

• Steuben Brewing Company, Steuben County
  A farm brewery with sweeping lake views, often frequented by locals for its small-batch beers and laid-back atmosphere.
• Hunt Country Vineyards, Branchport, Yates County
  One of the region’s most sustainable vineyards. Taste wine straight from the source in a rustic setting beloved by locals.

Lakes & Waterways

• Cayuga Lake, Tompkins County
  Paddle, sail, or fish. Locals love Cayuga Lake for both recreation and relaxation.
• Keuka Lake, Yates County
  Its Y-shaped layout offers quiet corners and family-friendly launches for swimming, kayaking, and boating.
• Naples Boat Launch, Canandaigua Lake, Ontario County
  A lesser-known lake access point ideal for a serene start to your adventure.
• Long Point State Park, Cayuga Lake, Cayuga County
  A locals’ favorite for swimming, picnicking, and dock fishing with minimal crowds.
• Discover Cayuga Lake, Tompkins & Cayuga Counties
  Join a boat tour that’s equal parts scenic cruise and environmental education, run by local experts.
• Cayuga-Seneca Canal, Seneca County
  Explore this historic canal by kayak or along the towpath, where locals enjoy peaceful paddles and glimpses of heritage locks.

Finger Lakes Region Accommodations

• Glen Hollow Inn, Naples, Ontario County
  Tucked into the hills with easy trail access, this inn is a perfect retreat for quiet-minded travelers.
• Inns of Aurora, Aurora, Cayuga County
  A village of historic and boutique accommodations with touches and lakefront views, frequented by travelers in-the-know.

Unique Finger Lakes Experiences

• Victor Recreation Department, Victor, Ontario County
  Locals flock to these community hubs for festivals, trails, and family-friendly activities throughout the year.
• Harris Hill Soaring, Elmira, Chemung County
  Want a local thrill? Take a glider ride over the valley—an unforgettable way to view the region from the sky.

Passion Points

How do you connect with the great outdoors? Maybe it’s hiking through lush forests and carved gorges, cycling along vineyards and gritty roads, or paddling serene lakes and historic waterways. Perhaps you prefer to cast your line into world-class fishing waters or enjoy the pace of slow travel, savoring peaceful moments in nature and farm-to-table meals. The Finger Lakes region has it all. Whether you seek adventure, connection, or tranquility, The Finger Lakes Outdoor Experience promises something unforgettable for every ability, in every season.

Leave No Trace

From glistening lakes and cascading waterfalls to flourishing vineyards and abundant wildlife, the Finger Lakes region is defined by its remarkable natural beauty. Preserving these environments is essential to ensuring that the Finger Lakes region remains extraordinary for both residents and visitors for years to come. 

To support this mission, we’re partnering with Leave No Trace, a globally recognized non-profit organization that’s committed to protecting the planet by providing science, research, and simple guidelines.

Leave No Trace empowers individuals and communities to enjoy nature in a way that sustains it for the future. Whether you’re exploring your own backyard or visiting the Finger Lakes for the first time, you can make a difference by following the Leave No Trace 7 Principles.

Meet the Locals Behind the Video

Outdoor Enthusiasts (as seen in video)

Conrad Baker, Letchworth State Park. Debbie Lyon, Saunders Finger Lakes Museum. Josh Teeter, New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. The Muller Family (Chris, Corinne, Caleb, and Joshua). Jennifer Wells, Paddle’N’More. Bill Waterhouse, Trail Otter. Mark Moskal, Summit to Stream Adventures. Kurt Hoefig, Finger Lakes Fishing Guide. Suzanne Hunt, Hunt Country Vineyards. Matt Curbeau, Professional Cyclist. Kadie Tower, Hand Cyclist. Anita O’Brien, Rochester Accessible Adventures. Brian Emelson, Victor Parks & Recreation. Persephone Boyd, Essential Healing Now, LLC. Justin Boyd. Ensley Hobart. Matt Stevenson, Inns of Aurora. Danny Lippincott, Rochester Accessible Adventures.

Plan Your Finger Lakes Outdoor Adventure