When many think of New York, they picture Manhattan and the big city lifestyle. However, New York also includes Upstate New York, a region covered in forests, mountains, and lakes. With so many incredible places to visit, pinpointing the region’s best outdoor destinations can be difficult. But we’re here to help, sharing six must-see outdoor destinations for nature lovers in Upstate New York.
Taughannock Falls State Park
Taughannock Falls State Park is near Cayuga Lake, one of Upstate New York’s famous Finger Lakes. This 750-acre state park has trails, a boat launch, and a beach by the water. But the most significant highlight of this park is Taughannock Falls, a massive waterfall that plunges 215 feet down rocky cliffs. Hiking to this waterfall is an ideal way to spend a warm day.
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls may be the most beautiful natural wonder in New York. Visitors can witness the falls in the city of Niagara Falls, where they can view all three of the waterfalls that make up this famed natural landmark from the Observation Tower in Niagara Falls State Park. These massive waterfalls are some of the most famous in the world.
Lake Placid
Lake Placid is a lake in the Adirondacks, a mountainous region of Upstate New York. As the site of the 1980 Winter Olympics, it is famed as a destination for winter sports. But it is just as appealing to visit in the summer when people flock to its shores for fishing, swimming, and boating.
Walnut Mountain Park
Walnut Mountain Park is a small but scenic park in the Catskill Mountains. This tranquil natural area includes a park at the base of Walnut Mountain, which houses a playground, picnic area, and sports facilities. Trails lead to the top of the mountain, where visitors can enjoy spectacular views from the second-highest peak in Sullivan County.
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Minnewaska State Park Preserve is on the Shawngunk Mountain Ridge in an area steeped in natural beauty. It has over 50 miles of trails for hiking and biking and scenic roads for those who’d prefer a drive. Visitors can witness thick forests, several rushing waterfalls, and sheer cliffs popular for adrenaline-seeking rock climbers. They can also see Lake Minnewaska, a vast lake ideal for boating, swimming, and even scuba diving.
Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve
Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve is where to go if you want to experience Upstate New York’s natural scenery in as untouched an environment as possible. This rugged state park encompasses more than 8,000 acres of terrain with 70 miles of trails. It is centered around the eastern edge of the Hudson River, and many park visitors spend their time canoeing or kayaking along the Hudson. Hudson Highlands has ruins of old homes, trails that lead to incredible vantage points, and strenuous uphill climbs.
