Tucked into the rolling hills of New York’s Finger Lakes region, Fillmore Glen State Park packs a surprising amount of drama into its 941 acres. Established in 1925 and named for President Millard Fillmore — who was born nearby — the park is defined by a narrow, deeply cut gorge carved by Dry Creek, with five waterfalls cascading over layered shale and limestone ledges.

The Gorge Trail is the centerpiece, winding along the creek bed past moss-covered rock walls and through cool, shaded passages that feel miles removed from the surrounding farmland. At the far end, Cowshed Falls pours over a wide ledge into a natural amphitheater of stone — one of the most photogenic spots in the Finger Lakes. A network of rim trails loops above the gorge through mixed hardwood forest, offering quieter hiking with occasional views down into the canyon.

Swimming is available at a dam-fed pool near the park entrance, a welcome stop after a warm-weather hike. Fishing for brook trout in Dry Creek draws a small but dedicated following. Picnic areas are scattered throughout, and the park maintains a campground, though availability and specific site details should be confirmed with New York State Parks before planning an overnight stay.

The best time to visit is late spring through early fall, when water flow through the gorge is at its most impressive and the trails are fully open. Fall foliage season — typically mid-October here — transforms the gorge into a corridor of amber and crimson. Come for the waterfalls, stay for the geology.

Explore Nearby

• McAuley Road Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in North Carolina
• Finger Lakes National Forest — National Forest in New York
• Frenchman Island Light — Lighthouse in New York
• Sodus Outer Light — Lighthouse in New York
• Knapp’s Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Pennsylvania