While there are several hiking trails in the Watkins Glen State Park, the Gorge Trail Loop is definitely the best one to do.

The Gorge Trail follows Glen Creek, up stone staircases and over a series of bridges, through an ethereal landscape full of waterfalls, swirling pools, and wispy waterfalls trailing like ribbons down the sides of the canyon.

• Distance: 1.5 mile loop

• Trail Rating: Easy - moderate

Hiking the Gorge Trail in Watkins Glen State Park is free. However, you will need to pay $10 to park. This parking pass is good for the entire day, so you won't need to pay again if you plan to visit any of the other nearby state parks.

Note: Open: Watkins Glen State Park is open all year, but the Gorge Trail closes for the winter.