Don’t Let Another Year Go By Without Seeing These 10 Breathtaking New York Spots
By Lea Monroe
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Published February 09, 2018
While the month of January seemed to somehow feel like an entire year itself, it’s exciting to think about all of the exciting adventures that we have time to take before 2018 is over. One of our favorite things to do here at Only In Your State is to help put together bucket lists for you. So to make sure that you have the most unforgettable year that you possibly can, here are some of the most breathtaking spots in our state that you can’t put off visiting any longer. Take a look!
1. Letchworth State Park
Covering more than 14,000 acres of New York, Letchworth has been rated as one of America's best state parks time and time again. A scenic paradise out in Western New York, the state park draws in adventurers from all over the country who are looking to explore the endless miles of hiking trails and beautiful waterfalls that you can find all throughout the park. Filled with history and amazing views of the Genesee River, this is one beautiful spot you can't keep putting on the back burner.
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2. Ausable Chasm
Letchworth State Park may be known as the Grand Canyon of the East, but up north, Ausable Chasm is known the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks! A historic spot to visit, Ausable Chasm is America's oldest natural attraction and has been around since 1870. Along the Ausable River, visitors can take adventures through this beautiful gorge with self-guided walking tours or can crank up the excitement even further with their Float Tours that will take you out onto the water. While you're exploring, keep your eye out of interesting rock formations like the Elephant's Head!
To find out more, click here.
3. Green Lakes State Park
One of the most unique lakes that you could ever visit on the planet, there aren't too many other meromictic lakes that can be easily visited on Earth. A state park featuring two beautiful lakes, both lakes in Onondaga County have some of the most jaw-dropping water that you'll ever see here in New York. In these lakes, the water from the bottom and the top of the lake never mix — maintaining a crystal clear appearance. Those who want to see these stunning bodies of water can hike along the waterfront natural trails or enjoy the beach at Green Lake.
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4. Watkins Glen State Park
Possibly our most famous state park, Watkins Glen State Park is a favorite natural wonder to visit out in the Finger Lakes Region. Walk along the park's two-mile long Gorge Trail and you'll see nineteen waterfalls, some of which you'll even walk underneath. An incredibly popular spot to visit, you'll want to arrive as early as you can to Watkins Glen if you want your best chance at avoiding crowds and other explorers!
To find out more, click here.
5. Thousand Islands
A scenic area we're happy to share with our northern neighbors, New Yorkers can head out anywhere along the St. Lawrence River and find charming lighthouse to tiny islands that are absolute treasures. In the area you can visit one of our delightful waterfront towns, go on a glass-bottomed boat ride or simply soak in the views.
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6. Whiteface Mountain
Exploring anywhere in our High Peaks Region or part of the Adirondack Park is an adventure that will always be rewarding. But if you're looking for a specific mountain to enjoy, Whiteface is one of our favorites. New York's 5th tallest mountain, you'll find quite a few ways for you to reach this jaw-dropping summit. Hikers can challenge themselves by climbing up the mountain, while those who need something a bit easier can drive up Whiteface Memorial Veterans Highway to help reach the top. Those who drive up the top of the mountain can then either take an elevator to the summit, or climb the famous steps of Whiteface.
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7. Sam's Point Preserve
One of the most beautiful places to explore downstate, Sam's Point Preserve in Cragsmoor sits on the highest point of the Shawangunk Ridge and will take you up into the clouds. Covering more than 4,000 acres of Ulster County, a couple of the most popular natural wonders to check out in the preserve are Verkeerder Kill Falls and the Ice Caves. Allowing you to explore well-marked trails, you'll get an up-close look at the unique scenery that makes up Sam's Point.
To find out more, click here.
8. Mohonk Lake
Part of the Mohonk Mountain House Resort, Mohonk Lake is another one of New York's most unique bodies of water. The glacial lake is a half-mile long and is used by the guests of the resort primarily for kayaking and paddle boarding. One of our favorite things about this lake is that it has its own private beach, that you'll love having all to yourself.
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9. Indian Head
As different as each hike in New York is from each other, there are some summits that have such unique views that you can tell which mountain you're looking at from a mile away. Giving you a gorgeous look at our Adirondack Mountains and the Lower Ausable Lake, the hike to the top of Indian Head isn't one that's easy, but it sure is rewarding!
To find out more, click here.
10. Skaneateles Lake
Another lake that's worthy of making your bucket list, Skaneateles Lake is just one of 11 reasons why you'll fall head over heels for this region in New York. Part of the eastern half of the Finger Lakes, Skaneateles Lake has earned quite the reputation with its Caribbean-blue water that you don't commonly see in the Empire State.
To find out more, click here.
If you had to suggest one breathtaking spot for an out-of-towner to visit, which one would you pick? To explore more beautiful areas of our state, visit any of These 13 Towns In New York’s Adirondack Mountains That Are Nothing Short Of Charming!
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