Waterfall Weekend in Watkins Glen

This summer, we ignored TLC’s advice and set off to New York for a weekend full of chasing waterfalls. Our best friends, Alyssa and Phil, accompanied Ray and I on an adventure-filled camping trip in Watkins Glen. Although it was predicted to rain the entire weekend, we packed our cars with smiles on our faces.

We bought tarps, aired out our tents, packed flashlights, meal prepped, chopped wood, and of course, got lots of beer. We were prepared for anything, except maybe the mosquitos. You’re never quite ready for those. After the last item was thrown into the truck, we set off.

It took us about four and a half hours to get to our campsite in Watkins Glen State Park. We booked the perfect little nook surrounded by trees. Not only was it an ideal distance from the bathroom, but from the entrance of the gorge. We doused ourselves in bug spray and set up a utopian campsite – complete with hammocks, a slack line, and a beer pong table.

The rest of the night was spent drinking, hanging by the fire, and mentally preparing for an adventure-filled weekend. And an adventurous weekend was surely had. Although it rained off and on almost the entire trip, we had the most fun anyone’s ever had. I know. That’s a huge claim, but it’s true. Here’s a breakdown of all the awesome things we did. It includes waterfalls, swimming holes, and what you’re really looking for, breweries.

Taughannock Falls State Park

We started off BIG. The Taughannock waterfall is the grandest waterfall I’ve ever seen in my life. It’s so picturesque I repeatedly had to reach out to make sure there wasn’t a green screen in front of me.

Buttermilk Falls State Park

This park opens up to a beautiful waterfall and as you climb you’re presented with more and more beautiful gorge landscapes, with a few smaller waterfalls here and there. Although the hike resembles a giant staircase, the sights are certainly worth the climb.

Robert H. Treman State Park

The swimming hole in this park is my all-time favorite. Not only are you able to bathe in refreshing water with a beautiful waterfall view, but you’re also able to jump off diving boards! Lifeguards on duty allow you to swim up and onto the waterfall as well.

Watkins Glen State Park

We had easy access to this beautiful gorge because our campsite was right next to the back entrance. It was SWEET, to say the least. Exploring this cavernous gorge is like stepping into an alternate universe where you’re allotted limitless time to ooh and ahhh.

Eagles Cliff Falls, Havana Glen Park

This short hike allows for a quick escape from reality. After a few flights of stairs and some turns, the path opens up into a pocket of beauty. One glamorous waterfall showers the corner of this gorge and begs you to take a mental picture.

Shequaga Falls

I’ve always wanted a waterfall in my backyard, so I was pretty jealous when I saw this setup. Located literally behind a few neighboring homes, this waterfall sets up the perfect scene for an afternoon picnic.

Hector Falls

Hector fall is set in yet another strange location ­– the side of the road. Although you have to scurry across the street and scale the side of a small cliff, Hector falls is absolutely breathtaking and gives a beautiful overlook of the Finger Lakes.

Ithaca Beer Company

Finally, on to the beer! I know that’s what you’re really interested in. Ithaca Brewing Company looks like it’s in the back of a sketchy warehouse, but when you enter you’ll realize that it’s actually an awesome spot. There’s tons of pretty outdoor seating, good beer, and great vibes.

Rooster Fish Brewing

This small brewery is a great spot to try tons of awesome craft beers and play some shuffleboard. We spent hours drinking our favorites, chatting with the staff, and dueling with pucks.

Two Goats Brewing

Overlooking the Finger Lakes, this brewery offers good beer with great views. Plus, one of the bartenders has a talent for sticking dollar bills to the ceiling. This is the place to go for a good time.

Grist Iron Brewing Company

Hungry? Go to Grist Iron Brewing for some stacked tater tots and of course, beer. We enjoyed some awesome food outside listening to live music.

Can you believe we did all of this in one weekend? Neither can we! Our trip was packed with fun. And, we’re looking forward to doing it all again next year. But maybe with a few new adventures. See you there?