Explore the Wonders of Finger Lakes Rustic and Wild
At over 9,000 square miles, the Finger Lakes is vast. While much of the region’s notoriety and acclaim is centered around the eleven long glacially-carved lakes and the vineyards surrounding many of them, there are pockets of fun activities found away from the wine trails, in quiet corners, on scenic country roads.
Along one such road, NY Route 36, the Finger Lakes Rustic and Wild footprint stretches north from the small communities of Jasper and Troupsburg all the way to Letchworth State Park and features majestic waterfalls, rich history, outdoor adventures, and a variety of culinary delights.
Waterfalls
With three main waterfalls, the iconic landmark known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth has been named “Best State Park in the U.S.” multiple times. Two of the falls (the Upper Falls and Middle Falls) are easily accessible and located just a short ways from parking areas, along paved walking trails, offering spectacular views and great photo ops. The Lower Falls, which require a short hike involving a moderate descent via a number of stone steps, can be viewed from a stone bridge that spans the river.
A mere twenty miles away, sits Stony Brook State Park. Much less known and much less crowded, Stony Brook also has three main waterfalls thanks to a stream cascading through the gorge over thousands of years. The path from the parking area to the last waterfall is just under one mile, and makes for a scenic hike through a beautiful canyon. During summer months, visitors can swim in the stream-fed pool for an exhilarating commune with nature. The park has a variety of camping options, picnic areas for family and friends to gather, and a restorative energy that can only be found in nature.
Other Outdoor Adventures
The nearly 1,000 mile Finger Lakes Trail begins west of Route 36 and ambles through the region just below Letchworth before swooping south, then turning west near Almond and angling its way across the region (intersecting the North Country Trail and the Great Eastern Trail and, in doing so, connecting tall the way to South Dakota,Vermont, and Alabama). The trail offers end-to-end thru-hiking opportunities as well as fun day hikes. Open year round, the trail offers hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, trail running, nature appreciation, birding, and geocaching.
One small segment of the FLT cuts through Kanakadea Park in Hornell tucked along the Almond Reservoir. Kanakadea is off most people’s radar, making it a great spot for those looking to camp, hike, paddle, and fish. You can also do some bird watching (we’re talking massive birds like bald eagles and great blue heron which also fish the calm waters).
It should be noted, no motorboats are allowed at Kanakadea.
There are also a few spots along the Canisteo River where you can put in your kayak or canoe to paddle and to fishing for trout and other species. Speaking of Canisteo, if you’re looking for something a bit more quirky, the Canisteo Living Sign once appeared in Ripley’s Believe It Or Not as the largest living sign in the world.
History
Called “Railroad Town” by some, Hornell was once home to four rail lines, the most prominent of which was the New York and Erie Railroad which arrived in 1851. Over time, Hornell became a major hub as its steam engine shop did the repairs for the entire Erie railroad line. Thousands of people worked in the shops and thousands more passed through town each week on passenger trains. What had been a rural farming community was transformed into a town of steel rails and steam engines and even as the Erie and other rail lines gradually faded into history, the culture of the railroad has remained. You can learn about that rich history at a former depot converted into a train museum called the Hornell Erie Depot Museum with hundreds of artifacts and railroad memorabilia.
Culinary Treats
Directly across the street from the museum stands one of Hornell’s most popular dining spots: Marino’s. Known for delicious casual dining fare as well as its atmosphere, Marino’s is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. Not far away is another local hot spot, Paddy’s Pub. This family-friendly Irish pub specializes in craft beer and tasty specials.
From local gathering spots like Brandy’s Cup of Joe (perfect for your coffee fix and local baked goods) to Tex-Mex favorite Biggie’s (with it’s “good vibes only” policy and delicious creative burritos) to the comfort foods of Racaltos, Hornell eateries tend to focus on building community as much as their culinary offerings.
In nearby Arkport, nestled amid farms and forest, sits Savor Vineyards and Wines, a local winery specializing in vintages you won’t find in many Finger Lakes wineries. With unique twists on native wines, like their dry Catawba, as well as hybrid styles like Marquette, Maréchal Foch, Espirit, Noiret, and La Cresent, Savor offers a mix of semi-sweet to dry wines. With live music and comedy shows on weekends, the winery’s philosophy is all about slowing down and savoring life.
Depending on the season, you can also take advantage of local agritourism opportunities picking blueberries and strawberries. Grab some pre-picked berries or spend a little time picking your own tasty treasures at this at Schultheis’ local strawberry farm. During Blueberry season, Blueberry Hill Farm is a great spot for some quiet time getting your fill of fresh blueberries straight from the bush.
Finger Lakes Rustic and Wild also has a variety of camping options.
- Stony Brook State Park
- 10820 NY-36, Dansville, NY 14437
- 585-335-8111
- Kanakadea Park
- Co Rd 66, Hornell, NY 14843
- 607-324-0590
- Sun Valley Campsites
- 10740 Sun Valley Rd, Arkport, NY 14807
- 607-545-8388
- Skybrook Campground
- 10861 Mccurdy Rd, Dansville, NY 14437
- 585-335-6880
For a unique and often unexpected glimpse of the Finger Lakes region, slip away from the Interstate and explore the road less traveled.
Watch this video to get a feel for Finger Lakes Rustic and Wild.
