I'm not the only one to think so...

Wow!
Lots of activity around the Glen Motor Inn! Last night, the Victory Lane Lounge welcomed the WGHS Class of 1981! It's always nice to reconnect with people you don't get to see everyday.

1. Cambodia; 2. County Clare Ireland; 3. Denver; 4. Dominican Republic; 5. Finger Lakes!
These are the "Top 5 Value Travel Destinations in 2011" as designated by Shermans Travel!
We already knew this, but were reminded that Watkins Glen is one of "the most affordable wine country destinations in the United States".
A couple of weeks ago, I visited some of my favorite wineries on Seneca Lake, and had an amazing day. If you have never done a winery visit, this might be the time to try it! The tasting fees (if any) are less than $5, which is usually credited towards your wine purchase. Make sure to try the award winning Rieslings and Gewurztraminers, but also give a taste to my favorite - Ice Wine!
Those first four places are nice, (OK, I do love DR - especially in the winter), but try Watkins Glen!  You won't be disappointed!

The Magical Gorge

Some visitors to Watkins Glen never visit the Watkins Glen State Park... I think they are missing a magical walk.
But before I start telling you about this walk, one word of advice. Know that you will get wet! The trails go up and around waterfalls, so comfortable hiking shoes/tevas are advisable.
There are several entrances to the park, but the main entrance is right in the downtown area of Watkins Glen.
From the second you leave the parking lot, entering into the Gorge, you know you are stepping into historical and hallowed grounds. Some of the trails are centuries old, and Native Americans were the caretakers.
The trails are around 1.5 miles over and under falls along hundreds of stone steps. The stream descends 400 feet past 20 foot cliffs, with 19 waterfalls to be discovered. There are 3 main park trails, the Indian, the Gorge and the Southern Rim. The Gorge and Southern Rim trails are closer to the falls.
Soon after entering the park, you will see the Cavern Cascade. It is one of two falls you can walk behind. The tunnels in the gorge were hand cut into the rock in the early 1900's, offering an up-close-and-personal look at the falling water. The waterfall has eroded this narrow section of the gorge leaving deep pools below, and dazzling mesmerizing vistas along the walkways.

Along the way, don't get so wrapped up in the waterfalls that you miss the little things. I saw these amazing small flowers and delighted in their simplicity in such a dramatic setting.

First post

Watkins Glen will find it's way into your heart. It's the kind of place where you can wind down and relax, turn your cell phone off, experience nature, or go full out... whatever speed you want to go.

There are so many events and happenings, but no real "insiders guide". Let this blog become your "Tour guide/Concierge" to the Glen!