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Watkins Glen

Travel Info

Top 10 Must-Do Experiences and Attractions in Watkins Glen

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Watkins Glen Weather, Climate and Best Time to Visit

Data source：Meteostat
Update date：2025-09

Watkins Glen year round climate

  • Spring (March–May): Average 4.2–15.4°C, mild climate with low rainfall. March sees a slow temperature rise, while May begins to warm up. Common activities: Hiking, enjoying early spring scenery. Suggested clothing: Light jacket, long-sleeved shirt, comfortable shoes.
  • Summer (June–August): Average 19.5–21.5°C, comfortable temperatures with low rainfall. July and August are the warmest months. Common activities: Waterfall viewing, boating, camping. Suggested clothing: Short-sleeved shirts, light trousers, comfortable shoes, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
  • Autumn (September–November): Average 10.8–17.1°C, temperatures gradually decrease, with low rainfall. September remains warm and comfortable, while November begins to get cold. Common activities: Leaf viewing, hiking. Suggested clothing: Light jacket, long-sleeved shirt, comfortable shoes.
  • Winter (December–February): Average -1.7–0.5°C, cold temperatures with low rainfall. January and February are the coldest months. Common activities: Skiing (requires travel to nearby areas), enjoying snow scenery. Suggested clothing: Heavy coat, warm clothing, hat, gloves, and scarf.

Watkins Glen climatological average

Annual average temperature: approx. 10°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 42 mm / Summer humidity: 60%–70% / Rainiest month: August

Watkins Glen monthly average temperature and precipitation

Month
Air temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
January
-1.7°C
4.4
February
0.5°C
1.4
March
4.2°C
3.4
April
8.5°C
4.9
May
15.4°C
3.5
June
19.5°C
4
July
21.5°C
2.3
August
19.2°C
5.8
September
17.1°C
3.5
October
10.8°C
2.4
November
5.9°C
3.8
December
-0.9°C
3.5

Watkins Glen weather for the next seven days

2/3
Tuesday
Light freezing rain
-0.5°C/-12.5°C
2/4
Wednesday
Partly Cloudy
-5.2°C/-17°C
2/5
Thursday
Overcast
-7.6°C/-14.9°C
2/6
Friday
Moderate or heavy snow showers
-3.4°C/-16.3°C
2/7
Saturday
Blowing snow
-13.8°C/-18.9°C
2/8
Sunday
Light snow
-12.2°C/-16.5°C
2/9
Monday
Overcast
-11.2°C/-23.1°C

Watkins Glen Frequently Asked Questions and Useful Information for Travel

How much time do you need at Watkins Glen State Park?

You should budget 2 to 3 hours to explore Watkins Glen State Park. The Gorge Trail walk alone takes about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the waterfalls and views. Allowing 2 to 3 hours lets you fully enjoy the spectacular scenery, take photos, and experience the park at a comfortable pace. Factors like your walking speed, potential crowds, and how many photos you take will affect the duration.

What is the best time to visit Watkins Glen State Park?

The best time to visit Watkins Glen State Park for waterfall viewing and hiking is late spring through fall, particularly late September for peak fall foliage. Summer is also a good option. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or mid-week. The Gorge Trail is typically closed during winter conditions, limiting views to the impressive winter scenery.

Is Watkins Glen State Park worth visiting?

Yes, Watkins Glen State Park is absolutely worth visiting. It is the most famous of the Finger Lakes State Parks and is renowned for leaving visitors spellbound. Within two miles, the glen's stream descends 400 feet past 200-foot cliffs, creating 19 stunning waterfalls along its course.

How can I best experience Watkins Glen in a day?

To spend a day in Watkins Glen, start by hiking the Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park, preferably from the upper entrance for a downhill experience past multiple waterfalls. Afterward, enjoy lunch in downtown Watkins Glen. You could also explore the Seneca Lake Wine Trail with a visit to a local winery or drive the Watkins Glen International Raceway. Consider ending the day with a picnic at Seneca Harbor Park.

What should I wear for hiking the Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen?

When hiking the Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen, it's advisable to wear waterproof boots or other shoes with good tread. Consider moisture-wicking clothes as you may get wet from the spray of the numerous waterfalls. The trail involves over 800 stone steps and passes through stone tunnels, so comfortable and practical footwear is essential.