New York's Largest Finger Lake Is Lined With Several Wineries, Outdoor Adventure, And Endless Beauty

The Finger Lakes region of New York is teeming with natural beauty, dotted with long, slender bodies of water that resemble fingers stretching across the landscape. Known for their glacial origins and serene waters, the distinct charm of these lakes has inspired generations of visitors. At the heart of this region is Seneca Lake.

The largest and perhaps most captivating of all the Finger Lakes, the 35-mile-long and 3-mile-wide Seneca Lake embodies the quintessential "finger" shape that defines this region. Its remarkable depth — reaching 200 feet below sea level — has not only shaped its unique ecosystem but also earned it a fascinating history as a site for submarine testing. Visitors can yield to the lake's magic by renting a boat for an afternoon of exploration or enjoying a picturesque sunset cruise.

The area surrounding Seneca Lake is full of scenic trails, charming villages, and a thriving wine scene. At the northern tip is the city of Geneva, while Watkins Glen village, famous for its wine and outdoor allure, anchors the southern end. Wine lovers, strap in: As the centerpiece of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, this lake is the ultimate destination for a combination of amazing flavors and views.

Seneca Lake's size and depth create a temperate microclimate, making the surrounding land perfect for vineyards. The area's unique environment supports over 50 wineries, 34 of which are part of the renowned Seneca Lake Wine Trail. Rather than a literal walking path, the "trail" is a network of closely connected wineries circling the lake. A full drive along the lake's length takes about 45 minutes, but exploring the wine trail is an all-day affair, filled with stops where you can savor the region's famous Rieslings, Cabernet Francs, and Pinot Noirs.

Start your adventure in Watkins Glen with a visit to Lakewood Vineyards, a family-owned gem with breathtaking lake views. Heading up the western side, you'll stop at Tabora Farm & Winery, where you can enjoy a curated South African-inspired wine tasting alongside a farm-fresh lunch. Travel a little farther north and you'll find Miles Wine Cellar, a lakeside retreat with its own boathouse and inn. In Penn Yan, Prejean Winery invites visitors to sip fine wines in its charming garden setting.

Along the lake's northern edge, the city of Geneva offers culinary delights alongside its wines. Kindred Fare is a must-visit, with its extensive wine menu and farm-to-table fare. Continuing down the eastern side, Ventosa Vineyards charms with its Tuscan-inspired ambiance and a spacious tasting room that's ideal for special occasions. Farther south is Three Brothers Winery, a one-stop destination with three distinct wineries on one property. In Lodi, Wagner Vineyards pairs rustic charm with panoramic lake views.

Seneca Lake isn't just for sipping wine (though there's no shame in doing so while you're there) — it's also great for chasing waterfalls, hiking trails, and experiencing some of the East Coast's breathtaking state parks. Watkins Glen State Park, for example, is an iconic destination located in the region's southern area. Coming in third place in USA Today's best state park awards of 2015, it's famous for its trail that leads visitors through gorges and 19 cascading waterfalls. Picture moss-draped walls, shimmering streams, and stone bridges as you climb the scenic steps. After your hike, you can cool off in the park's Olympic-size swimming pool.

On the northern shore, Seneca Lake State Park offers a different kind of aquatic experience. A perfect family-friendly vacation destination, the park features a swimming area and a fun-filled "Sprayground," where kids can splash through over 100 water jets. Nearby, the historic Rose Hill Mansion transports visitors back to the mid-1830s with its majestic Greek Revival architecture. A guided tour reveals the history of the estate, while the porch offers a stunning vantage point of Seneca Lake.

For those craving a longer trek, the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail is a scenic escape connecting Seneca Lake to neighboring Keuka Lake. This 13.5-mile out-and-back trail follows a winding stream, passing two waterfalls and offering a mix of hiking and biking opportunities. Starting from Penn Yan, itself a town worth exploring, the route is mostly downhill, making it an enjoyable option for adventurers of all skill levels. In addition to harboring a few vineyards (including the aforementioned Prejean Winery), the town's center is full of charming architecture, shops, and art studios. Whether you're into wine or waterfalls, the Seneca Lake region delivers an adventure worth raising a glass to.