Every summer, usually during the first couple of weeks in August, I’m fortunate enough to take my family to Watkins Glen, New York for a much-needed escape. My wife grew up there, and with my in-laws still calling it home, we get to enjoy both the warmth of family and the natural beauty of this remarkable region.

At the southern tip of Seneca Lake, the largest and deepest of the Finger Lakes. Lies Watkins Glen. It boasts a welcoming, small-town vibe paired with world-class attractions: dozens of wineries offering tours and tastings, craft breweries, and restaurants that consistently exceed expectations.

But the real star here is the land itself. About 12,000 years ago, retreating glaciers released torrents of meltwater that carved deep into sandstone and shale, creating a narrow gorge roughly two miles long and up to 400 feet deep. That gorge is still being shaped today by Glen Creek. The result is, quite literally is a step back in time and one of America’s truly beautiful spectacles of history.

I’ve hiked the Glen more times than I can count, and each trip feels like a new discovery. The Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park winds for about two miles through caverns, waterfalls, and insanely jurrasic rock formations. Along the way, you cross the stream 19 times on stone bridges and narrow pathways skillfully built and maintained by the park’s caretakers.

The hike is both challenging and rewarding. Starting at the base, visitors can enjoy the history of the town, shop, and then embark on a journey that feels like stepping into another world. At the top, a gift shop and refreshment stand await, along with a shuttle that takes you back down to ample parking. Still, I always recommend the walk back down—the return trip winds past an ancient cemetery, countless stone steps, and scenic overlooks that reward you with new perspectives.

Watkins Glen is not only famous for its natural wonders. It’s also home to the Watkins Glen International Speedway, affectionately known as “The Glen.” This racetrack has hosted NASCAR, Formula One, and countless other high-profile events. Being in town during race week is an experience in itself—you’ll see spectacular cars, passionate fans, and a festival-like energy that contrasts beautifully with the tranquility of the waterfalls. It’s almost as if Detroit’s heart of horsepower took a vacation here, merging the rumble of engines with the calming roar of water.

Although summer is my family’s tradition, fall might be the most spectacular time to visit. As the leaves change color, the gorge takes on a fiery glow while the waterfalls continue to surge. Year-round, the region offers motels, charming bed- and-breakfasts, and rental homes that make extended stays easy and comfortable. Beyond hiking, visitors can enjoy kayaking, boat tours of Seneca Lake, or simply relaxing by the water. Getting there is easier than it seems. It may be a long drive from some places, but you can also fly Delta from Detroit into Elmira, New York, and rent a car for the short trip to the Glen.

Watkins Glen is more than a vacation spot—it’s an experience that transports you back in time. The gorge feels prehistoric, the town radiates warmth, and the mix of engines and waterfalls creates an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. It’s beautiful, ancient, and humbling. For me and my family, it’s become a tradition. For you, it might just become your new favorite place.

As the locals and visitors alike all say after visiting the region - Watkins Glen is “GORGE-ous”.