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How Many Steps At Watkins Glen State Park?

How Many Steps At Watkins Glen State Park?

How Many Steps At Watkins Glen State Park? Everything You Need to Know Before You Hike

Hey traveler-friends! Dane here from the Double Decker Fam. As a family of 8—my wife, our six kiddos (aged 10 down to our crazy twin 5-year-olds), and myself—we’re always on the lookout for America’s most unique, outdoor adventures. If you follow us on YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok, you know we’re all about road trips in our double decker RV, and Watkins Glen State Park in upstate New York just had to be on our bucket list.

One of the most common questions we get from fellow family travelers heading to Watkins Glen: “How many steps are there, and will my kids survive the hike?” Trust me, I wondered about those steps before our first visit too! So get comfy, because today I’m going to break down everything you need to know about the famous steps at Watkins Glen State Park, our experience, and some pro tips for families making the trek.

Quick Answer: So, How Many Steps Are There at Watkins Glen State Park?

Let’s just hit you with the answer right away. The main trail at Watkins Glen—the Gorge Trail—features 832 stone steps from start to finish1. Yup, you read that right. It’s a lot of steps, especially if you have energetic kids or little ones in tow!

But trust me: every step is worth it for the views. The stairs are carved right into the sandstone walls of the gorge, winding past no fewer than 19 waterfalls (our twins lost count around waterfall eight, but hey, they’re five).

Where Exactly Are These Steps?

The vast majority of steps at Watkins Glen State Park are along the Gorge Trail. This is the main trail that takes you through the heart of the glen, offering close-up views of the waterfalls, cavernous cliffs, and those Insta-famous stone bridges.

  • Gorge Trail: Runs about 2 miles (one-way) from the Main Entrance to the Upper Entrance.
  • Number of Steps: 832 total, but not all in one go—they’re spaced out along the ascent.
  • Elevation Gain: Roughly 500 feet from bottom to top.

Depending on your family’s stamina (and how many snack breaks you need), you can do it as a 4-mile round-trip, or just hike up and take the park shuttle back down. (Highly recommend the shuttle with littles—saves lots of tears!)

Will Kids Be Able to Do All Those Steps?

Short answer: YES, but plan ahead!

Our family includes a range of abilities—big kids who run ahead and little ones who want to touch everything. The steps are mostly shallow but continuous in some steep sections. My advice? Plan to take it slow, use lots of positive encouragement, and don’t be afraid to bribe your youngest with gummy bears (it’s all about #RealLifeParenting).

  • Ages 7+: Most kids this age will crush it, especially with curiosity about waterfalls. Encourage them to be “waterfall counters”—it keeps them motivated!
  • Ages 3-7: Doable with help and plenty of rest/sightseeing breaks. We carried the twins a few brief stretches.
  • Babies/Toddlers: Soft structured carriers are a must. Strollers absolutely won’t work on this trail.

If you’re worried, remember you can always turn back at any time. There are plenty of jaw-dropping sights within the first half-mile.

Our Family’s Experience on the Steps

Let’s get personal for a second. The first time we tried Watkins Glen, I’ll admit—I underestimated those steps. I was carrying our snack pack, my camera, a twin on piggy-back, and answering non-stop “Are we there yet??” questions from the crew. But here’s what surprised me: the stone path is so stunning, with water flowing right beside you, that none of us even noticed the workout!

Some highlights from our step-filled journey:
– Rainbow Bridge: We stopped for our first snack break at this classic arched stone bridge. Perfect spot to catch your breath and grab some family photos.
– Cavern Cascade: The part where the trail goes behind the waterfall was hands-down the kids’ favorite.
– The Spiral Tunnel: Yes, there’s a mini spiral staircase built into the cliffs—super cool and made us feel like real adventurers.

The climb definitely gets your legs burning, but the payoffs in epic scenery and shared accomplishment? 💯 worth it.

Top Tips for Tackling the Watkins Glen Steps as a Family

Here’s what I wish someone had told me before we tackled those 832 steps:

1. Start Early

The park gets busy, especially on weekends and summer days. We hit the trail before 9:00 a.m. and had wide-open paths for the first hour.

2. Dress for Success

Waterproof shoes are your best friend—the stone steps can be wet and slippery with all the waterfall mist. Bring raincoats or ponchos for kiddos who love to wander close to the spray.

3. Pack Light, Snack Smart

Leave the stroller at home, but bring a comfortable child carrier if you have littles. Healthy snacks and plenty of water are non-negotiables—there’s no food inside the gorge.

4. Shuttle = Sanity Saver

Unless you’re super determined to hike back down (kudos if you do!), take the park’s shuttle bus from the upper entrance back to the main parking lot. The kids thought the shuttle was a bonus adventure, and our knees happily agreed.

5. Build in Time for Photos

Every turn is photo-worthy. Don’t try to rush these steps—make time for silly family shots, selfies in the spray, and just soaking up those mossy cliffs.

Are the Steps Dangerous?

No, but caution is still essential. The steps are solidly built and have good railings in the steeper sections. But, wet conditions can make things slippery, and the drop-offs are real, so it’s important to hold younger children’s hands and stay present at all times. We never felt unsafe, but we made sure our family ground rules—like the “One Hand on the Rail” rule—were followed, especially near drop-offs and alongside waterfalls.

For more on trail safety and park conditions, check out the official NY State Parks website.

Accessibility – Can You Avoid the Steps?

Unfortunately, the Gorge Trail is not stroller- or wheelchair-friendly due to the steps and uneven ground. HOWEVER, the park’s rim trails (Indian Trail and South Rim Trail) are smoother, mostly dirt paths with less drastic elevation changes, making them suitable for families who prefer a walk with fewer steps.

Here’s a detailed accessibility map from NY State Parks for more info.

Other Fun Family Activities at Watkins Glen State Park

If your kids still have energy after all those steps:

  • Picnic Areas: There are lovely shaded tables (bring lunch!)
  • Playground: A nice reward for completing the hike.
  • Swimming Pool: Open during summer—bring suits!
  • Visitor Center: Learn about the park’s geology and wildlife.

Nearby, the town of Watkins Glen also offers boat tours on Seneca Lake and fun little ice cream shops. It’s one of those towns that feels straight out of a storybook.

Don’t Miss These Pro Parent Hacks

  1. Photo Opps: The stone bridges are picture-perfect—arrive early for magic lighting and fewer crowds.
  2. Reward at the End: Bribe your hikers with a trip to the old-fashioned ice cream stand at the Main Entrance after conquering the steps.
  3. Sticker Chart: Give the kids a “step champion” sticker at the top for extra motivation.

Planning Your Visit: FAQ

Q: Is there an entrance fee for Watkins Glen State Park?
A: It’s just $10 per car for parking—no person-specific fees. (Check for seasonal changes on their official page.)

Q: When is the Gorge Trail open?
A: Typically mid-May to late October, depending on weather. Check before you go in spring or fall—closures do happen after heavy rain.

Q: Are dogs allowed?
A: Yes, but NOT on the Gorge Trail due to the steps and narrow paths. Leashed dogs are welcome on rim trails.

Final Thoughts: Should Families Tackle All 832 Steps?

Absolutely. Watkins Glen State Park is one of those rare destinations where the journey (step by step) is just as incredible as the destination. Our kids will never forget that first tunnel behind the waterfall, and neither will we. Sure, it’s a workout. But it’s family memories, laughter, and a huge sense of accomplishment rolled into one epic morning.

So, lace up your hiking shoes, pack snacks, bring your sense of adventure (and a change of socks!), and go make your own family legend on those 832 steps!

Got any questions about Watkins Glen or suggestions for our next double decker family adventure? Drop them in the comments or catch up with us on Instagram. Happy hiking, friends!

Sources:

  1. Official Watkins Glen State Park info
    [National Geographic – Watkins Glen photo essay](https://www.nationalgeographic.com/tr ↩