Taylor Shifflett, Author at Finger Lakes Premier Properties Blog

The Inside Scoop on the Best Skiing in the Finger Lakes

Discover why U.S. News & World Report named the Finger Lakes one of the best skiing destinations in the country! Our gorgeous lakes help create the perfect snow conditions for a skiing adventure. Whether you’re interested in racing downhill or taking a leisurely cross-country walk, you won’t want to miss out on skiing in the Finger Lakes region! Get access to our free Vacation Guide for more fun things to do around the lakes!

Experience the Best Skiing in the Finger Lakes

Downhill Skiing

Bristol Mountain Winter Resort

One of the most popular ski resorts in the area is Bristol Mountain Winter Resort! With a 1,200 feet vertical rise and 138 acres of skiable terrain parks, the facility has become a top ski area to visit.

They also have a state-of-the-art snowmaking system, so skiers and snowboarders can rest assured that they’re experiencing the best possible conditions.

Rental equipment is available from Bristol Mountain, so you won’t have to worry about packing bulky skis or snowboards.

If you’re new to the sport, you can book a lesson from Bristol Mountain! They offer ski and snowboard classes for total beginners! That includes an eight-hour lift ticket, eight-hour equipment rental, and three hours of coaching.

If you’d prefer to set your own pace and enjoy cross-country skiing, they have a Nordic Center in Canandaigua. You’ll be able to explore almost three kilometers of well-maintained trails from mid-December to mid-March.

Greek Peak Mountain Resort

Greek Peak Mountain Resort is another excellent option for downhill skiing in the Finger Lakes. Like Bristol Mountain, they offer equipment rentals and lessons that promise to get you ready for the slopes.

Greek Peak boasts a 952 feet vertical drop and 220 skiable acres. There is also a Nordic Center with a warming hut, various trails, and affordable ski and snowshoe rentals. You can even book a lesson, available by reservation only. For just $52.50, you’ll have a trail pass, equipment, and a two-hour class on all things cross-country skiing.

Cross-Country Skiing

If you’re only interested in cross-country skiing, there are plenty of places nearby with excellent trails.

Hammond Hill State Forest has a 16-mile trail system that is perfect for cross-country skiing. It’s maintained in part by the Cayuga Nordic Ski Club, so you can feel confident that you’re enjoying quality trails.

Letchworth State Park is often named one of the most beautiful places in New York State. Enjoy the beauty for yourself when you take advantage of their many trails for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and horseback riding.

Stay in the the Best Vacation Rental After Skiing in the Finger Lakes

finger lakes vacation rental living room

Are you ready to experience the best skiing in the Finger Lakes? Then book your home with Finger Lakes Premier Properties. We have the best selection of homes in the region. Whether you’re looking for pet-friendly properties or upscale, luxury homes, we’ve got just what you need.

Are you planning on taking advantage of the slopes at Bristol Mountain Winter Resort? Then book Arbor Landing! It’s just a 10-minute drive from the resort. This four-bedroom, two-bathroom home is ideal for winter family vacations. Enjoy the exceptional views of Canandaigua Lake or snuggling in front of the wood pellet fireplace.

Take a look at our full selection of homes and book today! We look forward to having you.

The Best Finger Lakes Outdoor Recreation for Your Vacation on the Lake

Although many people think of skyscrapers and fast-paced living when thinking about New York state, the Finger Lakes region of New York is quite the opposite! From wine trails to hiking trails, upstate New York is the best place to slow down and get a breath of fresh air. Read on to learn all about the best Finger Lakes outdoor recreation to add to your lake-cation itinerary!

For more fun things to do during your stay, head over to our free Vacation Guide. You’ll find an extensive list of the best things to do in the area from a local’s point of view, including fabulous restaurants, refreshing outdoor activities, and incredible shopping. See for yourself!

Finger Lakes Outdoor Recreation Activities That Are a Must

Finger Lakes State Parks

Hiking Trail and Waterfalls

There are so many incredible New York state parks to hike, bike, swim, or fish across the lakes. Some of our favorites include the beautiful Taughannock Falls State Park, Watkins Glen State Park, Robert H. Treman State Park, and Buttermilk Falls State Park.

As you can probably tell from the names of those, they all offer stunning waterfall views and adventurous hiking trails and biking trails that lead to them. As you trek your way through the trails, you’ll experience the most rugged beauty and scenery as you pass by multiple gorges, waterfalls, and rocky bluffs overlooking the lakes.

Finger Lakes Wine Trails

Finger Lakes wine country is a must as you explore the Finger Lakes region of NY. The wine trails offer some of the most unique Finger Lakes attractions, like the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, the first organized and longest-running wine trail in the country. At the same time, the Seneca Lake Wine Trail is the largest wine trail with 35 wineries, a distillery, two cider producers, two breweries, and a meadery!

For more Finger Lakes wine trail fun, you may also enjoy Keuka Lake Wine Trail or Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail for gorgeous vineyards and exciting wine tasting rooms, pairings, and tours!

Finger Lakes Winter Sports

As Elsa says, “the cold never bothered me anyway!” If you love frolicking in the snow, you must make a plan for a winter vacation in the Finger Lakes! There are various unique outdoor activities in the snow or on the ice, like downhill or cross-country skiing, sledding, or ice fishing on the lakes!

We recommend checking out the slopes at Bristol Mountain Ski Resort for an excellent ski or snowboarding experience in Upstate New York! You can stay in a vacation rental property just minutes away from the slopes when you pick a rental like South Bristol Sanctuary or Sunny Slope on Canandaigua Lake!

Stay Near the Best Finger Lakes Outdoor Recreation

Choose the best Finger Lakes vacation rental that’s most convenient for you and your crew. We offer rentals on several of the lakes. To maximize the outdoor fun on your lake-cation, book a lakefront home with a private dock and complimentary watercraft like kayaks and canoes so that you can explore the area from the water!

Check our availability and book your dream vacation outdoors today!

The Best Things to Do During Your Long Weekend in the Finger Lakes

Have a holiday weekend coming up but don’t know how to spend it? We highly recommend spending your long weekend in the Finger Lakes region of New York! Typically, most people like to spend their long weekends treating themselves to a much-needed and relaxing break. And, although when most people think of New York State, they think of the hustle and bustle of New York City, Upstate New York is quite the opposite! The long, slender lakes are known to be a place to slow down, enjoy fresh air, the great outdoors, and spend time with your friends and family!

To help get you ready for your long weekend getaway by the lake, read on to learn about some of the must-experience attractions. And, for a more extensive list, make sure to request access to our free Vacation Guide. It includes a list of all the best restaurants, outdoor recreation, wineries, museums, and shopping for the best vacation.

4 Things to Do During Your Long Weekend in the Finger Lakes

1. Sip Your Way Around the Finger Lakes Wine Trails

Exploring Finger Lakes Wine Country is a must during your vacation as the Finger Lakes vineyards and wineries are some of the main draws to the area. Choose from several unique wine trails (or travel all of them!)

We recommend checking out a wine tasting room (or many) along the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, Seneca Lake Wine Trail, Keuka Lake Wine Trail, or Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail.

2. Visit a Museum

If you have time to scope out the historical spots of the Finger Lakes, do it! The museums and historic sites don’t disappoint. Did you know the FLX region is home to the birthplace of the women’s rights movement? You can tour the location of the Seneca Falls Convention or visit the very spot where Susan B. Anthony illegally voted in 1872!

Some other fascinating Finger Lakes museums you might enjoy include:

Corning Museum of Glass

Finger Lakes Boating Museum

Museum of the Earth

Glenn H. Curtiss Museum

Rockwell Museum

3. Do Go Chasing Waterfalls

What’s an outdoorsy vacation destination or lake area without gorgeous state parks, beautiful waterfalls, gorge trails, and hiking trails? Your inner outdoorsman will be in paradise exploring some of the 50+ unique waterfalls in the area. And, of those, 19 waterfalls are in Watkins Glen State Park, making it easy to squeeze a bunch of them into one trip!

4. Splash Around the Lakes with Finger Lakes Premier Properties

It’s so easy to enjoy your lake time when you stay close to the water. Finger Lakes Premier Properties offers hundreds of beautiful vacation rentals on several of the Finger Lakes. You can choose from family-sized rental homes or smaller rentals depending on if you’d like to go on a family reunion trip, girls’ getaway, or couple’s vacation.

Most of our vacation homes are lakefront with private docks, picturesque lake views, and complimentary watercraft like kayaks or canoes. In addition to the incredible lake amenities, many of our vacation homes come with top-notch features like covered decks, patios, grills, hot tubs, entertainment rooms, and full kitchens!

Make it one of the best Finger Lakes weekend getaways, and book your favorite rental today!

Finger Lakes Pet-Friendly Attractions to Fetch on Your Lake Vacation

Our pets are our family. So when we take a family vacation, why wouldn’t your furry friend come along? Bring Fido to your next vacation on the lake and treat yourself and your four-legged friends to a variety of Finger Lakes pet-friendly attractions that include an abundance of walks, time spent in the great outdoors, treats, belly rubs, and more.

And after Spot gets tired, take a glance at our free Vacation Guide for more family-friendly fun, including the best restaurants, museums, outdoor activities, and shopping in the Finger Lakes region.

Finger Lakes Pet-Friendly Activities to Bark About

Pet-Friendly Breweries and Wineries in the Finger Lakes to Lap Up a Drink

Are all of the Finger Lakes Wineries and Breweries pet-friendly?

No, but many of them are! The best way to find out which ones are pet-friendly is by visiting the wine trail websites below for details.

Finger Lakes Wine Country is known for its delicious local wines. So, we highly recommend you explore the long list of Finger Lakes wine options, including wine cellars, tasting rooms, vineyards, and beautiful outdoor dining options. One option you may enjoy is Miles Wine Cellars on Seneca Lake!

Outdoor Things to Do With Dogs in the Finger Lakes

Can we take our dogs on hiking trails?

We would love that and think they would too! State parks are abundant in our part of New York state. From dog-friendly hiking trails leading to gorgeous scenic destinations, waterfalls, and other landmarks to wag-worthy dog parks, we recommend that you take your pup for an adventurous hike around the Finger Lakes.

Sampson State Park
High Falls, Rochester, NY
Buttermilk Falls, Ithaca, NY
Letchworth State Park

What are some of the best dog-friendly things to do in the Finger Lakes?

The Windmill Farm and Craft Market
TLC Blueberry Farm, Barton
The Finger Lakes Museum
Montezuma Wildlife Refuge
Ward O’Hara Agricultural Museum
Heritage Village of the Southern Finger Lakes
Lakeside Dog Park – Located in Emerson Park on Owasco Lake, this dog park is free and open to the public from dawn to dusk all year-round. The park is home to two sections (“All Dogs” and “Small Dogs”) and a doggy playground with tunnels and agility equipment that will keep your pup active.
Seneca Farms – Head over for a puppy cone on a hot summer’s day!

Pet-Friendly Rentals FAQ

Does pet-friendly mean cats are welcome?

Typically, “pet-friendly” equates to “dog-friendly.” Unless a listing mentions cats by name, it should not be taken for granted that felines are welcome.

What sizes of dogs are allowed? And how many dogs are allowed?

Make sure you read each property listing carefully before booking. Call our Reservations Department (888) 414-5253 for information on the specific property you are interested in if you do not already see it listed on the property page.

What do I need on vacation when bringing a pet?

It is your responsibility to have all the essentials you will need for your pet. The property may or may not have pet items, so come prepared. Some of the things we recommend when you visit include:

Bed/kennel
Food & treats
Bowls for food & water
Toys (including water toys/fetch toys)
Leash
Collar with proper and up to date ID tags
Waste pick-up bags
Bottled water or water from home
Extra flea & tick protection
Towels & shampoo

pet friendly rentals finger lakes welcome bag

The Best Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals in the Finger Lakes

We want the best experience for you and your pup. That’s why we offer the best dog-friendly vacation rentals in the Finger Lakes region of New York state. With more than 90 pet-friendly vacation rentals to choose from, your pup will have the best vacation in a wag-worthy lake house. Plus, it will be so excited to receive a doggie bag with a complimentary tennis ball, dog treats, waste bags, and pet wipes for a comfortable stay.

With a bit of forethought, you and your K-9 kid can have a fabulous time in one of the most gorgeous areas of New York. Browse our pet-friendly inventory below.

Pet-Friendly Rentals

*Enjoy peace of mind knowing there are keyless check-ins to your private rental, professional housekeeping in between each reservation by our trained housekeeping team, professionally cleaned linens at our operations facility, and the security of a local 24/7 manager on duty.

Take a Bite Out of the Best Finger Lakes Restaurants

One of the best parts about going on vacation is trying out all the best local dishes. After all, calories don’t count on vacation! If you’re getting ready to go on a foodie trip around New York, you have to try some of the best Finger Lakes restaurants in the region! There are countless restaurants in the Finger Lakes of NY that offer impeccable dining experiences, great food, award-winning New York wines, live music, fresh local produce, and beautiful vineyard views.

And, for more fun around the Finger Lakes region, make sure to request access to our exclusive Finger Lakes Vacation Guide. We’ve put together an extensive list of restaurants, outdoor recreation, museums, and shops so that you can plan your next NY foodie getaway with ease!

Finger Lakes Restaurants You Need to Try Right Now

Dining For a Special Occasion in the Finger Lakes

FLX Table

Gather the whole family or all your best friends for an elegant and fun dining experience at FLX Table. They can seat 12 people at a large dining table, where you’ll try a three-to-five-course dinner, a wide selection of local beers and Finger Lakes wines, and a unique farm-to-table experience.

Seneca Lake Restaurants & Wine Trail

Glenora Wine Cellars

You can’t visit wine country without making a few stops on some of the Finger Lakes Wine Trails. Some of the best places to enjoy a glass of wine and some comfort food with the girls are on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. Glenora Wine Cellars offer top-notch meats, produce, and cheese from local farms. This awesome Finger Lakes Winery even pickles and preserves their own fruits and vegetables!

FLX Wienery

Near Watkins Glen and Geneva, you’ll find an all-American classic restaurant called FLX Wienery in Dundee, NY. When traveling through the iconic Finger Lakes wine region, make a stop for one of their artisanal, high-quality brats, chorizo, Italian sausages, burgers, or fries! And then top it all off with a spiked shake.

Stonecat Café

How do fresh ingredients, top-notch Finger Lakes cuisine, accompanied by great live music sound? Stonecat Café in Hector, New York, is perfect for just that. Between 5 and 9 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays, you can treat yourself to full-service indoor or outdoor dining in the Finger Lakes with fabulous meal options like mushroom and spinach risotto or grass-fed NY strip steak.

Finger Lakes Restaurants on the Wate r

Cove Restaurant Bar
Lancellotti’s Dining Room and Parlor Bar
Ports Café
Rose Tavern
Vonnie’s Boathouse Bar and Grille

Outdoor Dining in the Finger Lakes

Top of the Lake
1833 Kitchen & Bar at Aurora Inn
Stonecutter’s Tavern at Belhurst Castle
The Waterfront
Village Marina
Sapalta

Stay Near the Best Food in the Finger Lakes of New York

Luckily, for all the foodies out there, Finger Lakes Premier Properties offers the best vacation rentals all throughout the Finger Lakes region, with lakefront rentals on several incredible lakes, including Seneca Lake, Cayuga Lake, Canandaigua Lake, Honeoye Lake, and Conesus Lake.

Stay close to all of the best restaurants in the Finger Lakes of New York, or scope out the nearby farmers markets for fresh local produce, so that you can whip up a delicious meal in the fully equipped kitchen of your vacation home.

Check our availability and plan the ultimate foodie getaway in Upstate New York today!

When Is the Best Time to Visit the Finger Lakes?

One of the most common questions we get asked is, “When is the best time to visit the Finger Lakes?” The answer is, of course, right now! The Finger Lakes is one of the best vacation destinations in the United States no matter the time of year. From the snowy winters to the warm summers, there are endless opportunities for fun in every season.

For even more help planning your trip, request our free Vacation Guide! It contains our recommendations for the best of the Finger Lakes. From wineries and restaurants to hiking trails and boat rentals, you’ll find everything you need to plan the ultimate Upstate New York getaway!

When Is the Best Time to Visit the Finger Lakes?

Although anytime is a great time to come, the best time to visit the Finger Lakes is late spring through summer, or May through September. It’s an outdoor wonderland, full of recreational activities and water sports for any adventure lover!

But, if you’re pinching pennies, you should avoid the summer months. Prices may go up between June and August when the kids are out of school. Plus, local attractions may be a little crowded during the summertime as well.

Another thing to consider: thousands of tourists flock to the Finger Lakes region in the fall, too. Keep reading and we’ll explain why in a moment.

Why Every Season Has Its Pros

Spend Spring in the Finger Lakes

Spring brings blooming flowers, warmer weather, and tons of great wine and food events in the Finger Lakes!

From the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail Bacon on the Lakein to the Seneca Lake Wine Trail Pasta & Wine Weekend, there are so many excellent opportunities to enjoy a wine tour or wine tasting, and learn more about Finger Lakes wine country.

Enjoy a Finger Lakes Summer Vacation

The possibilities for adventure are endless when you visit the Finger Lakes in the summer! Hiking, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and boating are hugely popular activities during this season. Make sure to dress accordingly because mornings can be a little chilly, but the afternoons warm up to the perfect temperature in the 80s.

Get a bird’s eye view of the lakes and book a hot air balloon ride!. White-water rafting in Letchworth State Park is another awesome activity! The Finger Lakes Wine Festival, GrassRoots Festival, and the Canandaigua Lakefront Art & Music Festival all take place during this season, as well! Make sure to plan your summer vacation several months in advance. Many people dream of a summer vacation in the Finger Lakes, and accommodations book up quickly!

Fall in Love with the Finger Lakes

You’ll be hard-pressed to find more gorgeous fall foliage than in the Finger Lakes! Autumn brings changing leaves, pumpkin farms, and the end of the grape-growing season.

Visitors come from all over to see the captivating fall foliage. The colors are absolutely breathtaking! Just beware of the crowds.

There are some fantastic fall festivals and harvest celebrations taking place during September, October, and November. Consider taking a scenic drive around the area to take in the gorgeous sights.

Cozy up in Winter

Whether you’re celebrating the holiday season or you’re interested in winter sports, there are so many great reasons to visit the Finger Lakes during the chilly season! Browse through the Watkins Glen Village Christmas or the Canandaigua Christkindl Market. There’s no better way to get your holiday shopping done and have a fun day! Skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing are all popular activities in this region, so come prepared for a fun day of adventure!

Or, explore the Finger Lakes wine trails this winter for the region’s best ice wines.

Cozy Up or Cool Down With Finger Lakes Premier Properties

Are you looking for the best place to stay in the Finger Lakes? Then browse through our inventory of homes! Finger Lakes Premier Properties contains the best selection of luxury rentals in the region! From pet-friendly to lakefront and more, our homes have everything you need for an outstanding getaway. Remember, the best time to visit the Finger Lakes is right now, so check out our catalog and book today!

Are you looking for things to do in the Finger Lakes this weekend? Follow us on Facebook! We’re always posting upcoming events and festivals in the area.

Here’s Everything You Need to Know About Finger Lakes Beer Festival

This October, do something spooktacular while giving your taste buds something cold and refreshing! For Halloween weekend, head over to the Finger Lakes to experience the annual Finger Lakes Beer Festival! Beer-fanatics from all over crave this popular event and return year after year. Read on to learn why this fall festival is such a hit!

Don’t waste time searching for more things to do when you can use our easy guide. Unlock our free Finger Lakes Vacation Guide for exclusive access to the best attractions, like other events, outdoor recreation, restaurants, bars, and museums.

What Can I expect at Finger Lakes Beer Festival Weekend?

When Is Finger Lakes Beer Festival?

Chemung Canal Trust’s Finger Lakes Beer Festival Weekend will fizz up between October 29-30, 2021, this year.

Where Is Finger Lakes Beer Festival?

The festival takes place every year at Watkins Glen International.

See What the Buzz Is About

It’s obvious that you’ll have the opportunity to drink the best beer around, but did you know you’ll be able to taste more than 40 New York state breweries, distilleries, and cideries?

Feeling competitive? After you’ve got a good buzz going, take part in a 32-team corn hole competition and stein holding contest! You heard that correctly – you’ll be playing a giant corn hole tournament against 31 other teams!

Drive the Glen

Enjoy a race weekend when you explore North America’s Premier Road Racing Facility, Glen International. It’s the only NASCAR racetrack in New York that you can drive yourself. All you have to do to feel like you’re a professional racecar driver is bring your car, and you can drive laps around a 3.4-mile Grand Prix circuit.

Every day except for some select days in August September, and October, drivers have the opportunity to take laps around the course at noon and 5 p.m. Make sure to arrive early to make sure everything runs smoothly!

NASCAR Experiences at the Glen

There are several different NASCAR experiences to choose from that can accommodate any fan or group. Package options include the Family 4-Pack, Primesport, Tailgate Zone Parking, Glentopia, or Scanner Rental. See their website to learn about the details and differences between each package.

If You Like the Finger Lakes Beer Festival, You Might Also Enjoy…

If you visit during the summer months, you might be able to make it to the Finger Lakes Wine Festival where you can enjoy an extensive selection of wines from all over the state of New York. Voted “the Best Wine Festival” in the United States, you’re sure to enjoy the variety of wines from almost 100 different NY wineries, food vendors, pace car vendors, live music, and more.

Relax After a Buzzworthy Day of Tastings

After a day of racing around the Glen campgrounds with your best buds, kick your feet up and unwind in a nearby vacation rental on the lake. Finger Lakes Premier Properties is the best rental company in all the Finger Lakes, and you’ll agree when you experience the best family memories and bonding experiences by the water. Make it a tradition, and stay in a gorgeous, family-sized home with a dock, and you’ll see why visitors return to the Finger Lakes year after year. Check our availability now, and reserve the best lake-cation yet!

4 Finger Lakes Fall Festivals You Can’t Miss

One of the most beautiful destinations in all of New York state during the fall months is the Finger Lakes region. The leaves turn bright colors, the air gets crisper, and the wine gets even tastier! Escape the city, and head to wine country to experience the ultimate Finger Lakes fall festivals!

Looking for more things to do in the Finger Lakes this weekend? Unlock our free Vacation Guide! It includes a local’s guide to the best restaurants, outdoor recreation, museums, and must-see attractions to help you plan the best vacation ever!

These Are the Best Finger Lakes Fall Festivals

1. Oktoberfest in the Finger Lakes

Oktoberfest is always a fun time for beer-fanatics around the world. But did you know you can celebrate the famous 2-week long German Festival right here in the Finger Lakes?

You can celebrate Oktoberfest by jamming to traditional German-American live music and enjoying local food, wine, & beer at Deer Run Winery in Geneseo, NY. Or, you can check out the Annual German Festival in September at Lucas Vineyards!

2. Naples Grape Festival

There’s no better way to start off the fall season than with a trip to the popular Naples Grape Festival at the southern tip of Canandaigua Lake. Every September, you can visit the beautiful town of Naples to celebrate the grape harvest, local artists, food, and wine.

Think you can bake? This family-friendly fall festival offers the perfect opportunity for you. Enter the Naples Grape Pie Contest for a unique-to-the-Finger-Lakes experience! Name a better Finger Lakes wine pairing than vino and pie made from local grapes!

3. Finger Lakes Beer Festival

/October will speed by before you know it, but don’t let that happen without planning a fall trip for Finger Lakes Beer Festival Weekend! Get your tickets to the festival and enjoy more than 40 New York state breweries, distilleries, and cideries at Watkins Glen International.

And, if you’re feeling competitive, test your hand at corn-hole with the ultimate 32-team cornhole tournament and stein holding competition!

4. Finger Lakes Farmers Markets

Who doesn’t love a good farmers market? Luckily, there are several awesome farmers markets throughout the Finger Lakes. Some that you should check out this fall include the Canandaigua Farmers Market for a great selection of local meats, cheeses, pickles, sauces, fruits, and vegetables! You can visit this farmers market on Saturdays between June and October

Ithaca Farmers Market is one of the biggest in the game! If you stay near the shores of Cayuga Lake, make a stop here for delicious eats from local farmers and chefs!

Fall Foliage in the Finger Lakes

The first two weeks of October are prime leaf-peeping season around the rolling hills of the Finger Lakes, and you can’t miss this short-lived, vibrant time period. You’ll find some of the most colorful treetops in the nation right here on the FLX.

If you decide to make the ultimate fall foliage getaway, we recommend viewing it from Canandaigua Lake, Seneca Lake, Cayuga Lake, Keuka Lake, or high above the trees in the chair lift at the Bristol Mountain Fall Sky Rides.

Fall for these Beautiful Lake Rentals!

Finger Lakes Premier Properties offers the most stunning vacation rentals surrounding six out of the 11 Finger Lakes! Get a small group together or gather the entire family for a reunion on the lake in one of our rentals on Canandaigua, Cayuga, Conesus, Honeoye, Keuka, or Seneca Lake.

It’s easy to find the perfect rental near your favorite fall festival because you can narrow down your search by location, amenities, or size. Hurry, and get started on planning your fall getaway before the leaves start turning!

6 of the Best Places to Find Finger Lakes Hiking Trails

Are you looking for the best day hikes in the Finger Lakes? You’re in luck! There are plenty of fantastic trails to explore through the region. From the gorge trails that weave you through streams and rivers to beautiful lakefront trails featuring gorgeous views, there’s always a good reason to lace up your boots. Enjoy a day of Finger Lakes hiking during your visit!

We’ve listed some of our favorite Finger Lakes hiking trails, but there’s plenty more to discover! request our free Vacation Guide to get a full list of local parks and trails! You’ll also get our picks for the best restaurants, wineries, breweries, and more. Never go hiking on an empty stomach! Plan your trip in no time when you use our free Vacation Guide.

Enjoy the Best of Finger Lakes Hiking Trails

1. Finger Lakes Trail System

Explore a network of trails known as the Finger Lakes Trail System (FLT). A non-profit, Finger Lakes Trail Conference administers the FLT, a continuous footpath that crosses New York State. Hike the main trails leading to many different branch trails like the Bristol Hills Trail.

Where does the Finger Lakes Trail Run Through?

The 950-mile trail runs from the Pennsylvania and New York border in Allegany State Park to Long Path in the Catskill Forest Preserve on public and private land, crossing sections of land from around 700 private landowners!

Make sure to check the trail conditions before starting your adventures. FLTC’s interactive maps will help you make your way across the Finger Lakes.

2. North Country National Scenic Trail

The North Country Trail (NCT) also runs through the Finger Lakes region. The National Park Service runs the NCT that goes through Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and North Dakota.

Fun fact: This one is the longest of the Congress-authorized National Scenic Trails at 3,129 miles!

3. Finger Lakes National Forest

Nestled between Cayuga and Seneca Lake is the Finger Lakes National Forest. This is the state’s only national forest and features a wide range of natural features, including open land, gorges, and woodlands. In total, there are over 30 miles of hiking trails. Don’t be surprised if you see a free-ranging cow or two during your visit! The forestland provides some fantastic grasslands for livestock.

New York State Parks

4. Seneca Lake State Park

For a relaxing, lakefront stroll, explore the famous Seneca Lake State Park hiking trail! The Geneva Lakefront Trail is located in the park and named after the town in which it’s located, is just over four miles long and good for all skill levels. Since the trail surrounds Seneca Lake, it’s best hiked from February until October.

5. Watkins Glen State Park

For some incredible Finger Lakes hiking with waterfall views, visit Watkins Glen State Park. This is an immensely popular park in the area and was even nominated in the USA Today Readers’ Choice Poll for Best State Park in the country. Located at the southernmost tip of Seneca Lake, the trails at Watkins Glen State Park wind through beautiful stone staircases, bridges, and tunnels. This is one of the premier destinations for Finger Lakes gorge trails.

6. Taughannock Falls State Park

Did you know you can take a trail that leads to the biggest gorge in Ithaca, NY? Plus, it gets better. The waterfall at Taughannock Falls State Park is taller than Niagara Falls, and is actually the tallest waterfall in New York!

Kick Your Feet Up and Relax With Finger Lakes Premier Properties

After your day of exploring the best Finger Lakes hiking trails, return to a gorgeous home from Finger Lakes Premier Properties. We have the most incredible selection of properties on seven of the 11 lakes. We offer a large selection of small or large Finger Lakes vacation rentals to accommodate you after a long day of hiking with top-notch amenities so that you can do relaxing activities like soaking in a hot tub with a captivating mountain view!

Are you ready to book? Browse through our full catalog of properties and reserve your home today! We look forward to having you.

Discover the Finger Lakes in August for the Best End-of-Summer Getaway

Summer is always a popular time to visit the Finger Lakes. Not only is the weather fantastic, but there are always so many awesome summer activities and events happening around Upstate New York. Why go to overcrowded vacation destinations like Niagara Falls, when the Finger Lakes in August is easily any outdoor lover’s paradise? Below, you’ll find out some of our favorite things to do as a last hurrah at the end of summer before the kids return to school.

For more amazing things to do and see in the Finger Lakes region, make sure to check out our free Vacation Guide. It includes all the top attractions in the area when it comes to outdoor recreation, restaurants, shops, museums, and other popular attractions.

Experience the Finger Lakes in August

Finger Lakes Weather in August

Those who love summer weather will thrive by the lakes this August. Temperatures usually reach a comfortable high in the lower 80s, and at night can cool down enough to bring a cute sweater!

During the day, spend your time on the boat, fishing, kayaking, or swimming. Or, hike to some of the best Finger Lakes waterfalls.

The Finger Lakes region experiences all four seasons, so no matter which season you prefer, there will always be an abundance of activities to do.

Sip Local on While Traveling the Finger Lakes Wine Trails

Traveling the Seneca Lake Wine Trail is a fun way to explore the area. One of several FLX wine trails, Seneca Lake Wine Trail features almost 40 incredible wineries, cideries, and breweries. Spend a whole day making your way down the 75-mile shoreline sipping on Upstate New York’s finest varietals like chardonnay, pinot noir, cabernet franc, and Gewurztraminer.

Other fantastic wine trails to discover include the 30-mile Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail, the six incredible wineries on the Keuka Lake Wine Trail, or the very first wine trail in the United States, the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail!

Hike the Trails at Watkins Glen State Park

Discover the best outdoor recreation when you explore the trails at Watkins Glen State Park. It’s one of the most popular parks in New York State, offering nearly 20 waterfalls and beautiful hiking trails. Lace up your hiking boots for the popular Gorge Trail. And, we must say – it lives up to its name! Gorge!

Celebrate Your Favorite German Cabbage Dish at the Annual Phelps Sauerkraut Weekend

Do you love sauerkraut so much that you wish you could dedicate a weekend to celebrating and eating it? Sauerkraut lovers from around the country need to experience our area’s annual Sauerkraut Weekend in Phelps, NY.

It offers a variety of unique activities like a cabbage decorating contest, a wine with acrylics painting class, and even a Krauter 20K race!

Come for the sauerkraut and stay for the awesome live music and vendors this August!

End Your Summer in Our Summer Hideaway!

Finger Lakes Premier Properties is the best place to unwind each evening after all of your FLX adventures. Cool down after a warm August day in Summer Hideaway, a two-bedroom vacation rental on Keuka Lake. This lovely cottage offers a bit of Californian flair with charming country style and a view of the lake from your living room and covered porch. Check our availability, and book Summer Hideaway today!