Encompassing nearly 9,000 square miles of area, Finger Lakes in Upstate New York is a bio-region of waterfalls, wineries, and shoreline along with 11 pristine lakes. The region is named so due to long and narrow lakes shaped like human fingers. The region lies between the urban sprawls of Rochester, Syracuse, and Ithaca. From east to west, here are the Finger Lakes –
- Otisco Lake
- Skaneateles Lake
- Owasco Lake
- Cayuga Lake
- Seneca Lake
- Keuka Lake
- Canandaigua Lake
- Honeoye Lake
- Canadice Lake
- Hemlock Lake
- Conesus Lake
At 66.9 square miles, Lake Seneca is the largest of all finger lakes by surface area. Lake Cayuga (133 meter) and Lake Seneca (188 meter) are among the deepest lakes in the country. Hiking, biking, horseback riding, swimming, kayaking, and winter sports are enjoyed in the Finger Lake region.
While Cazenovia Lake is referred to as the “12th Finger Lake”, the nearby Oneida Lake is not considered as one of the finger lakes. At about 21 miles long, five miles wide, Oneida is the largest lake entirely within New York State.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Finger Lakes region is a must-visit destination. Whether it’s dairy farms or fishing spots, the region draws countless visitors to its scenic beauty. Wine tours and year-round vacation rentals add to the charm of this region. The Watkins Glen State Park is renowned for cascading waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and trout fishing opportunities.
The Ithaca Fest, Clothesline Art Festival, Grass Roots Festival, and other events are held in the region between May and October. The Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, Mark Twain Study, Corning Museum of Glass, and Rockwell Museum keep the culture vultures busy.
