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).

Finger Lakes Land Trust acquires nearly 1,000 acres near Corning

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Finger Lakes Land Trust acquires nearly 1,000 acres near Corning

A state forest in southeastern Steuben County will nearly double in size, providing greater public access, thanks to the Finger Lakes Land Trust.

The Ithaca-based organization announced it has completed the largest conservation project in its 35-year history with the purchase of nearly 1,000 acres, known as "Bad Bear Hill." The land features one mile of frontage along the Canisteo River.

The 992-acre property is located in the towns of Erwin and Lindley, just southwest of Corning and east of Addison.

Visible from Interstate 99, the property has an elevation of 1,520 feet at its highest point. It features forested hillsides, multiple streams, small meadows, and miles of existing trails.

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.

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.