Finger Lakes

Nestled in the heart of Upstate New York, the Finger Lakes comprise a distinctive network of lakes, presenting a captivating bioregion. This locale has garnered popularity as a sought-after tourist destination. Resembling elongated fingers, these lakes gracefully stretch along a north-south axis. Notably, these majestic lakes, echoing the graceful curvature of human fingers, collectively form a natural wonder evoking awe and inspiration.

Of note, Cayuga Lake and Seneca Lake hold the distinction of being both among the longest and deepest lakes in the United States. Each spanning nearly 40 miles end to end, and never exceeding 3.5 miles in width, they exhibit remarkable proportions. Among these, Cayuga Lake boasts the longest stretch at 38.1 miles, while Seneca Lake commands the largest total area. Delving beneath sea level, Seneca Lake plunges to an astounding 618 feet (188 m) in depth, while Cayuga Lake follows suit at 435 feet (133 m).

Kueka Outlet Map

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Kueka Outlet Map

Keuka Lake is the odd little duckling of the Finger Lakes; but, it is not the “ugly” duckling by any stretch! Instead, Keuka Lake is beautifully unique and, though it shares much with its fellow “fingers,” it is set apart by its peculiar shape. Early settlers called this the “crooked lake” because, unlike the long and sinuous, finger-shaped lakes, Keuka Lake is forked and shaped like a Y. The odd shape is one of its many unique features, but more pertinent to outdoor enthusiasts is that Keuka is the only Finger Lake that drains into another. This gave rise to the Outlet Trail.

South Of Cayuga And Seneca Lake

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South Of Cayuga And Seneca Lake

When you get south of the Finger Lakes, you get back into the hill and hollow country that is common in much of Central New York and Western NY. The rolling country common in the northern Finger Lakes, gives away to fairly steep hills with narrow valleys.