New York is made up of the best of both worlds, a state that’s filled with a huge variety of both natural and man-made wonders. Some of our greatest wonders are best experienced during our state’s warmer months, AKA right now. In case these weren’t already a part of your bucket list or maybe you just need a friendly reminder to go check these spots out, here are 14 marvels in New York that you won’t believe are real until you check them out yourself:
1. Kaaterskill Falls
One of the tallest waterfalls you'll find in New York, this two-tiered waterfall in the Catskills is absolutely breathtaking. Just off of the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway, the waterfall is easily accessible and is stunning to check out all year long.
2. Watkins Glen State Park
More specifically, the waterfalls. One of our favorite places to praise, the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail is simply a fairytale. The two-mile trail, where you'll see more amazing waterfalls than you could ever imagine, can be found at the southern end of Seneca Lake!
3. Wing's Castle
There's no denying that New York is home to some pretty impressive castles, many of which look like they've come straight out of a Disney movie. So what's so special about this castle? Aside from its eye-catching appearance, the castle holds a unique history and serves as a living memory of its main creator, Peter Wing. To find out more about this truly incredible castle,
click here.
4. Eternal Flame Falls
A waterfall that despite its magnificent wonder has managed to stay relatively hidden, this natural wonder of New York is mind-blowing. Located in Buffalo, the waterfall emits natural gas, keeping a flame year-round! Fire and water, the combination of the two is seriously epic.
5. Allegany State Park Thunder Rocks
Enchanting boulders and rocks that all look like they have quite the stories to tell, these natural wonders are something everyone should see in person. What many call a rock city, the gigantic boulders are fun to explore and have an interesting history!
6. Erie Canal
If you live in New York, then there's no doubt you know what the Erie Canal is, if you're not familiar with this historical system, then it's time to get yourself acquainted! Built in the early 1820s, the canal system is a major part of our state's history and provides scenic opportunities like no other.
7. The Labyrinth
A part of the hike to the Sky Top Tower in New Paltz, this truly insane hike is not for those who have a fear of small spaces, seriously. Commonly referred to as the Lemon Squeeze (yes, you did indeed read that right), the hike brings you through a tall and tight crevice that will test all of your greatest fears. To check out the incredible views you'll get on this hike and to read more,
click here.
8. Geyser Island Spouter
Lea Monroe/Only In Your State
Located inside of Saratoga Spa State Park, you'll find the majority of the 18 mineral springs you can find throughout the city of Saratoga Springs. Pictured above, you can see the most epic spring you'll find within the city, the Saratoga Geyser Island Spouter. To read more about this incredible natural spring,
click here.
9. The Thousand Islands
Over twenty of New York's state parks can be found within the region of the Thousand Islands, along with so much more. A series of natural wonders that we share with Canada, the Thousand Islands is home to a ton of hidden gems and often tends to be underrated.
10. Ausable Chasm
In New York, we sure do love our gorges! Often referred to as "The Little Grand Canyon" or the "Canyon of the Adirondacks", this adventurous natural wonder has been a long time tourist attraction. From rafting and tubing to rock climbing and hiking, there's so many ways to enjoy this beautiful place!
11. The Adirondack High Peaks
New York's tallest mountains can be found within the Adirondack Park, any true adventurers real dream. With 46 mountains standing tall and waiting to be explored, there's nothing quite like seeing these towering mountains surround you or the unforgettable views from their summits.
12. Finger Lakes
Pictured above, you can see Keuka Lake on a beautiful morning, one of the eleven Finger Lakes you can find within New York. Ranging in size, this series of lakes got their name from well... looking like a set of fingers! While it's hard for us to pick just one favorite, most of our residents have a particular lake they enjoy visiting over the others. What's yours?
13. Herkimer Diamond Mines
Ready to tackle a new thrilling, outdoor adventure? Search for crystals aka Herkimer Diamonds, in their natural setting and see what all the fuss is about!
14. Niagara Falls
Often considered our largest tourist attraction and another natural wonder we share with our neighbor Canada, Niagara Falls is something every New Yorker has to witness. Sure, it's easy to understand why these waterfalls draw in so many visitors when you see a gorgeous photo of them, but to fully grasp the beauty of Niagara Falls, you have to visit in person. To plan your next trip to Niagara Falls and find out more,
click here.
Wow, we sure are spoiled having all of these amazing marvels in New York! Looking for more summer 2016 adventure inspiration? Check out these 13 underrated places in our state to take an out-of-towner!
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