Top Natural Wonders of New York State

When travelers hear New York, images of Times Square and the Empire State Building come to mind. But New York State has way more to offer than the skyscrapers, Broadway shows, and the frenetic pace of the Big Apple. If you venture outside of NYC, you’ll discover forested mountains, sparkling lakes, and gushing waterfalls. 

New York State doesn’t get enough credit in travel spheres for its scenic beauty, and that’s a shame. It’s easily one of the most beautiful states east of the Mississippi River and features some of America’s top natural wonders. For a vacation that connects you with the great outdoors, check out the top natural wonders of New York State.

Niagara Falls

One of the world’s most powerful waterfalls, Niagara Falls is a bucket list experience for many travelers. Just outside of Buffalo, Niagara Falls hosts a whirlwind of recreational attractions along the US-Canada border. Grab your poncho and ride the Maid of the Mist to feel the raw energy of Horseshoe Falls plunging into the Niagara River. 

You can wander hiking trails through the Niagara Gorge or cross the Rainbow Bridge for heart-racing vistas of American Falls. To feel the power of the falls on land, descend into Niagara Gorge and visit the Cave of the Winds. Hold on for dear life at the Hurricane Deck, then view the indoor exhibits to learn how the plunging water is harnessed for hydroelectric power.

Watkins Glen State Park

New York has one of America’s best state park systems, and Watkins Glen is its shining star. Just 1 hour and 40 minutes from Syracuse, this beauty inside the Finger Lakes region is a nature lover’s dream. The flowing stream flows through the rocky gorge and produces dozens of tumbling waterfalls. Radiant foliage dots the canyon and hiking trails course beside glistening pools. 

The park includes several hiking paths open from May to early November that offer stunning views of Mother Nature’s handicraft. If you’re chasing waterfalls, take the Gorge Trail to follow the trickling stream and encounter 19 cascades. And have your camera ready for Rainbow Bridge and Falls to capture a snapshot of the park’s most picturesque setting.

Adirondacks 

Can you believe that the Adirondacks are the largest area of protected wilderness in the Lower 48? At over six million acres, the Adirondacks are larger than Yellowstone and even dozens of countries. Its old-growth forests dazzle visitors with colorful fall foliage, and hikers summit New York’s highest peaks. And kayakers stumble into a goldmine of 2,800 lakes and ponds and around 1,500 miles of rivers. 

Scenic byways unlock adventures for drivers, motorcyclists, and cyclists hoping to discover the lakes, streams, forests, mountains, and historic sites. And when winter rolls around, the snow-packed slopes of world-renowned ski resorts take centerstage. From Lake Placid to Gore Mountain, you’ll find ski trails suitable for every level in the Adirondacks.

Lake George 

With majestic views of the Adirondacks, Lake George is a popular lakeside retreat that rolls beaches and mountains into one spectacular location. Thomas Jefferson once commented the sparkling waters of Lake George were the most beautiful that he ever saw. The “Queen of the American Lakes” has been a beloved vacation getaway ever since. 

Lakeside cruises on the Lake George Steamboat Company are a storied tradition in the village. Beachgoers lounge on Million Dollar Beach or go for a swim in the refreshing waters offshore. More intrepid travelers can venture to one of the 44 islands of Lake George for a secluded camping adventure. Hike to the summit of Prospect Mountain for a jaw-dropping panorama of Lake George and the Adirondacks.

Letchworth State Park

Letchworth State Park holds the esteemed title “Grand Canyon of the East” for its forested gorge with plunging waterfalls. Just 45 minutes south of Rochester, Letchworth State Park entices visitors with non-stop recreational activities. With dozens of hiking, cycling, and horseback riding trails, the park gives you an intimate connection with the canyon. The Genesee River hosts kayaking, swimming, and whitewater rafting adventures for thrill-seekers. 

But for the ultimate Letchworth experience, a hot air balloon ride is an unforgettable joy ride. You can soar high above the 600 ft cliffs and watch the Genesee River fall into the gorge above. With its scenic overlooks and eye-popping foliage, Letchworth once earned the honor of America’s most beautiful state park.

Catskill Mountains

Wedged between Albany and New York City, the Catskill Mountains are beloved by New Yorkers. When you need a break from the urban sprawl, the Catskills offer a quick escape for millions of people. The hiking trails of the Catskill Forest Preserve let you search for diverse wildlife and seclusion within nature. For more action-packed activities, tackle its thrilling cycling paths or ride one of North America’s largest ziplines. 

With nearly 100 peaks, the Catskill Mountains boast tons of scenic vistas to admire the Hudson Valley. At 1,277 m, Slide Mountain is the highest peak of the range and offers an exciting expedition for trekkers. The Catskills also hosts world-class fly-fishing and paddling excursions along its rich waterways. And Hunter Mountain Resort hosts downhill skiing runs throughout the New York winter.

1000 Islands

Hitch a boat ride down the St. Lawrence River for a glimpse of lavish mansions and forested islands. Over 1,800 islands form the archipelago, and residents from America and Canada come searching for a waterfront paradise. The waterways host kayakers, boaters, swimmers, and anglers soaking up the serenity of the St. Lawrence River. And the picturesque islands include well-maintained hiking and cycling trails to explore the landscape. 

For a bird’s eye view of the 1000 Islands, book a helicopter tour or ride the elevator to the top of the 1000 Islands Tower. If you prefer staying on the water, consider a boat tour to the extravagant Boldt Castle or Singer Castle. And a mesmerizing 1000 Island sunset of orange and purple skies is one of the most beautiful sights in New York.