Running Guide: Running in the Finger Lakes Region of New York

Looking for the top places to run, local running stores, group runs, and more? Here’s your guide to running in the Finger Lakes.

(Feature photo by istock.com/TW Farlow)

Article last updated: January 9, 2026

Affiliate disclaimer: Running Lifestyle may receive a small commission on travel bookings made through the links in this post. By using the links to book your travel experiences, you’ll support an independent media company that’s focused on creating great content for runners!

The Finger Lakes guide for runners is developed in partnership with Finger Lakes Running Company. Read more about Finger Lakes Running Company in the Running Stores section below!

Whether you traveled to the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York for a weekend of wine tasting, lake activities, or exploring the many waterfalls, getting in a few runs should be on the itinerary.

Don’t let the narrow country roads deter you — there are plenty of running routes to explore if you know where to find them! Options include gorgeous lakefront paths in Ithaca and Geneva and dirt trails in nearby state parks. While in Ithaca, be sure to stop by Finger Lakes Running Company for all of your running gear and nutrition needs.

After a run, settle in at a local brewery overlooking a lake. And if you’re here for the wine, you’re in for a treat. Vineyards and tasting rooms dot the map around each lake, especially Cayuga and Seneca. A few favorites include Buttonwood Grove Winery and Six Eighty Cellars on Cayuga Lake, and Atwater Vineyards on Seneca Lake. (Check out the Finger Lakes Wine Trails for many more.)

Finally, don’t miss out on a scoop of local ice cream from a family-run creamery — it’s the perfect treat after spending miles on the trails during the summertime.

Bookmark this guide for your next trip to the Finger Lakes region in upstate New York.

Looking for more running vacations?
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Running in the Finger Lakes Region of New York

There’s an active running community around the Finger Lakes. This is especially true in the town of Ithaca at the south end of Cayuga Lake, which is home to Cornell University and Ithaca College. Ithaca has a large running club presence and trail community with events nearly every weekend. It’s a welcoming place for all, ranging from fast post-collegiate athletes to casual runners.

You’ll find paved paths for running and walking in the Finger Lakes’ downtown lakefront areas, including in Geneva and Ithaca. Minutes from town, there are plenty of trailheads if you’re up for some elevation gain. We recommend packing your trail shoes!

When Is the Best Time to Visit the Finger Lakes?

The best months to run in the Finger Lakes region are April through October. April usually has some colder and rainy days, making May a bit more enjoyable. Most of the gorges are open in April, but the high-traffic months tend to be late June to August.

Late May and June are comfortably warm and green. If visiting in July and August, plan your runs in the morning to avoid the higher temps. This is a great time of year to enjoy water sports on the lakes.

Fall in the Finger Lakes is gorgeous. If visiting September through mid-October, you’ll see the changing of the trees — New York state has some of the most diverse color ranges appearing toward the end of September and early October. Be sure to get on the trails to fully enjoy it!

Winter is off-season for tourism, so many wineries, breweries, and eateries have limited hours. If you run this time of year, consider investing in studs or traction gear for your shoes to navigate the snow and ice.

Where to Stay in the Finger Lakes Region

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Where to Run in the Finger Lakes Region

Buttermilk Falls State Park
Combine a few trails in Ithaca’s Buttermilk Falls State Park for a 5-mile run with about 900 feet in elevation gain. Start at the lower parking lot at 106 East Buttermilk Falls Road and take the Gorge Trail to your right, up alongside the waterfall, or try your hand at running the Rim Trail to your left (both have about 400 feet of climbing in less than a mile).

The trails meet at the road crossing. From here, follow the Bear Trail and loop around Lake Treman. The eastern side of Bear Trail has some steps and a dam that can be pretty scenic in a light rain. The western side is more “runnable.” (Note: The stone bridge at the southernmost point of the lake has been out for a few years, so you’ll need to do a short detour on Yaple Road and Comfort Road to complete the lake loop.) On the return trip, take the Rim Trail to avoid foot traffic coming up the Gorge Trail. View the trail map here, and more park information and updates here. Parking is $9 per vehicle.

A paved trail next to a lake with green grass and trees on a partly sunny day — (Cayuga Waterfront Trail, photo by Jamie Love)

Cayuga Waterfront Trail
Accessible from several locations in downtown Ithaca, the Cayuga Waterfront Trail is an 8-mile paved, ADA-compliant path perfect for running, walking, and biking. It follows the Cayuga Lake waterfront and Cayuga Inlet, connecting through several parks, a dog park, a golf course, both Ithaca College and Cornell University campuses, and other notable sites. You can also hop onto several trails from this path (more info here).

Consider parking on the west end of the Cayuga Waterfront Trail at Cass Park (701 Taughannock Blvd., Ithaca) or the east end at Stewart Park (1 James L Gibbs Drive, Ithaca). Find more Cayuga Waterfront Trail information here.

Cayuga-Seneca Canal Trail
The Cayuga-Seneca Canal Trail is a tree-lined flat path alongside the canal system. At just over 6.5 miles, the paved and dirt route starts in Waterloo and ends at Seneca Lake State Park in Geneva via a tunnel under the NY-96 highway. Park in a small lot on the Waterloo end on Huff Street (past Fayette Street) or at Seneca Lake State Park (1 Lakefront Drive, Geneva) near the boat houses. Due to the more secluded nature of this trail, it’s always best to run with a buddy. More trail information here.

Fillmore Glen State Park
South of Owasco Lake in Moravia, Fillmore Glen State Park’s trails are straightforward and ideal for budding trail runners concerned about getting lost on crisscrossing paths. Park on Park Road and start with the 2.5-mile North Rim Trail. Then come back on the 1.3-mile Gorge Trail (weather permitting) or the 1-mile South Rim Trail. It’s easy to do another loop or two if you’re looking for more mileage. Find the trail map and park information here.

a lakefront trail with a welcome center and playground in the background on a sunny day — (Geneva Lakefront Trail, photo courtesy of Visit Finger Lakes)

Geneva Lakefront Trail
Just across the street from downtown Geneva is the Geneva Lakefront Trail. Paved and flat, this trail follows the waterside, past the Finger Lakes Welcome Center (coffee, wine, snacks, souvenirs, and public restrooms here), and into Seneca Lake State Park. You’ll get a little over 4 miles on this out-and-back route. Park near Long Pier Ice Cream (47 Lake Front Drive, Geneva) toward the west end of the trail. For an extra adventure, follow the dirt trail at the west end. This short extension pops out at the picturesque Jennings Beach. Find more trail information here.

High Tor Wildlife Management Area
Located just south of Canandaigua Lake in Naples, this nearly 12-mile trail comes with more than 2,700 feet in elevation gain. The route starts at the parking lot off of Ontario Street and climbs about 700 feet in the first mile. Throughout the run, you’ll pass two ponds and plenty of gorgeous viewpoints perfect for a quick rest. View and download the trail map here.

If you’re not up for 12 miles, there are a couple of alternative routes starting from the parking lot off of 245 at Conklin’s Gully that will each get you 2-3 miles.

Robert H. Treman State Park
Robert H. Treman State Park, located just southeast of Ithaca, has several trails to choose from which can be connected at different points for shorter or longer routes. You’ll find 12 waterfalls around this state park and stunning views of the gorge. View park information and updates here. Parking is $9 per vehicle.

Robert H. Treman State Park’s 4.5-Mile Route Option: Start from the lower parking lot by the state park’s office off of Park Road. Follow the trail from the parking lot to the swimming area. You’ll cross a little bridge at the swimming area, then double back until you reach a small section of paved road. Take an immediate right here onto the Rim Trail and head into the park again. About 1.4 miles in, you’ll hit an intersection with the option to turn right to get to the Gorge Trail or left to continue on the Rim Trail. Stick to the Rim Trail and prepare for a stair climb of 250 feet over a quarter mile — you’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous view! About a half-mile after the climb, you’ll reach another intersection. Take the Gorge Trail from here (to your right). Enjoy the views on the gradual downhill for the first half-mile, then continue on the trail back to the parking lot.

Robert H. Treman State Park’s 7-Mile Route Option: Follow the 4.5-mile route, but instead of returning on the Gorge Trail, take it only until you reach the Red Pine Trail. On the Red Pine Trail, you’ll climb another 200 feet in a quarter-mile, then continue to the upper parking lot. Stay to the right of the Old Mill to hop onto the CCC Trail going south. After a half-mile on the CCC Trail, take a left at Butternut Creek Road and continue onto the Finger Lakes Trail. Follow that trail for about 2 miles, then take a left into Y Camp, which will take you back to the lower parking lot. This route is a little over 7 miles with 1,500 feet in elevation gain. Don’t be afraid to walk those hills! View the trail map here.

A wide dirt trail with green trees on both sides — (Taughannock Falls State Park Gorge Trail, photo by Kimberly Valentine)

Taughannock Falls State Park
The flat 1-mile Gorge Trail at Taughannock Falls State Park has a big reward at the end in the form of a waterfall. It’s a well-traveled, kid and dog-friendly route, which is ideal if you’re looking for somewhere to run safely by yourself. While it can get quite busy in peak visitor months, the path is plenty wide for passing. Run the out-and-back route twice for an easy 4-miler. The Gorge Trail is nicely shaded alongside a rocky cliff. On hot summer days, you’re likely to see people and their dogs cooling down in the creek.

For a more technical but not too difficult route, consider connecting the 1.44-mile North Rim and 1.6-mile South Rim trails above the gorge. An option to continue farther is presented at the halfway point where the trail meets the trailhead for the 8.4-mile Black Diamond Trail. The Black Diamond Trail takes you south, all the way to Ithaca! Check here for trail updates and closures.

Across the street from the main trailheads at Taughannock Falls State Park is the Taughannock Falls State Park boat launch and Cayuga Lake. The trailhead’s parking lot address is 1738 NY-89, Trumansburg. Visit the trail map here. Park entrance fee is $9 per vehicle.

As with any running route, take the necessary precautions for a safe run. Whenever possible, run with a buddy. Tell someone you know well where you’re going and when you expect to return, bring your cell phone and an ID, and remain aware of your surroundings.

Running Stores in the Finger Lakes Region

The inside of a running store showing apparel and running accessories — (Photo courtesy of Finger Lakes Running Company)

Finger Lakes Running Company
The only running specialty store in the Finger Lakes region, Finger Lakes Running Company is your destination for all things running. Established in 2006, the store has a great selection of road and trail running shoes. In addition, you’ll find OOFOS recovery sandals, Patagonia and Smartwool apparel, Salomon hydration gear, and a wide range of running nutrition brands. Owner Ian Golden also operates Red Newt Racing, a local race company that puts on some of the area’s most popular races.
700 Cascadilla Street, Ithaca; (607) 275-3572

Run Clubs in the Finger Lakes Region

We aim to keep this guide updated regularly, but things can change quickly! Before attending a run club on this list, call the associated store or check the group’s social media to confirm the date, time, and location.

Finger Lakes Running Club’s Tuesday Workouts
When: Tuesday evenings; times vary based on the season (check the schedule)
Distance: 1.5 to 3-mile workouts, plus a warmup and cooldown
Starting Point: Locations vary; check the schedule

Finger Lakes Running Club’s Weekend Run
When: Saturday mornings (sometimes Sundays); check the schedule
Distance: Varies; road or trail
Starting Point: Locations vary, check the FLRC Forum

Destination Races in the Finger Lakes Region

(Cayuga Trails, photo courtesy of Red Newt Racing)
(Gorges Ithaca Half, photo courtesy of Red Newt Racing)
(Geneva Half Marathon and Relay, photo by Barb Boutillier/Fleet Feet)
(Virgil Crest Ultras, photo courtesy of Red Newt Racing)
(Wineglass Race Series Half Marathon, photo courtesy of Wineglass Race Series)
(Wineglass Race Series finish line, photo courtesy of Wineglass Race Series)

Skunk Cabbage Classic | April | Ithaca | Half Marathon, 10K
Running for more than 40 years and counting, the out-and-back 10K and half marathon courses navigate Ithaca’s Cornell University and the nearby countryside.

Muddy Sneaker 20K Trail Race | April | Naples | 20K
This trail race runs through the High Tor Wildlife Management Area. While a PR is unlikely, runners looking for a challenge will find steep elevation ascents and descents, a technical trail, and the potential for icy and muddy conditions.

Seneca7 | April | Geneva | 77.7-mile 7-person Relay
Find six friends and head to Geneva to run a relay race that circles Seneca Lake. This is a Red Newt Racing event.

Wineglass 8K | May | Corning | 8K
Held on Memorial Day weekend, the 8K is the first race of the year in the Wineglass Race Series Challenge. The relatively flat course starts on a track and runs through the city of Corning.

Cayuga Trails | May | Ithaca | 50-Miler, 50K
Run through gorges and spot waterfalls along the trails in Robert Treman State Park. Enjoy the views but expect a climb — more than 6,800 feet in elevation gain for the 50K and 10,000 for the 50-miler! This is a Red Newt Racing event.

Lucifer’s Crossing | May | Ithaca | 13.2-Miler, 6.66-Miler, 3.33-Miler
Expect a rolling ascent to begin the race and scenic views throughout Robert Treman State Park. The 10K loop runs through the gorge past Lucifer Falls; the half marathon runs two laps. This is a Red Newt Racing event.

Gorges Ithaca Half | June | Ithaca | Half Marathon
The point-to-point half marathon course starts in Trumansburg, passes Taughannock Falls State Park, and follows a downhill route toward the finish line at the southern end of Cayuga Lake in Ithaca. Spend some time exploring downtown Ithaca after the race or visit Cayuga Lake’s wineries. This is a Red Newt Racing event.

Keuka Outlet Trail Half Marathon & 10K | July | Penn Yan | Half Marathon, 10K
The out-and-back course follows a wooded, riverside trail from Keuka Lake to Seneca Lake. You’ll pass waterfalls and abandoned mills along the mixed gravel, grass, and pavement route.

The Canandaigua Mile | August | Canandaigua | 1-Miler
The flat and fast 1-mile race along Canandaigua Lake’s shoreline encourages competition but invites runners of all paces to participate. Hang around after the race and support Canandaigua’s local businesses.

Geneva Half Marathon and Relay | August | Geneva | Half Marathon, Relay
Starting and finishing in Geneva, the USATF-certified half marathon course stays on the west side of Seneca Lake. Grab a bite to eat in downtown Geneva after the race, then spend the afternoon exploring the Finger Lakes or Seneca Lake’s many wineries.

Twisted Branch Trail Run | August | Naples | 100K
This trail ultra is a point-to-point 100K course that navigates through 10 towns and three counties. It starts in Ontario Country Park in Naples and finishes at Champlin Beach in Hammondsport. Expect a challenging route on a mix of single-track trails and dirt and paved roads.

Virgil Crest Ultras | September | Cortland | 100-Miler, 50-Miler, 50K
Whether you’re an experienced ultramarathon runner or prefer shorter trail races, there’s a race distance for you, and all begin at Greek Peak Mountain Resort. This is a Red Newt Racing event.

Finger Lakes Festival of Races | September | Watkins Glen | 18-Miler, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K
Approachable for new trail runners, race distances follow the well-maintained Catharine Valley Trail in Watkins Glen. You’ll experience rewarding views and gorgeous fall foliage without significant elevation changes, plus music and a free beer at the finish line.

Wineglass Race Series | October | Corning | Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K
Run along scenic country roads in the south end of the Finger Lakes region. The point-to-point, flat Boston-qualifying marathon course starts in Bath and finishes on Corning’s Historic Market Street. The half marathon begins at the marathon’s halfway point in Campbell. Both the half and full marathon are on Sunday, and the 5K is Saturday, giving runners the option to complete two races in the same weekend.

Looking for races in other travel destinations? Find them here!

After a Run: Things to Do in the Finger Lakes Region

Running Lifestyle may receive a small commission on travel bookings made through the links in this post. By using the links to book your travel experiences, you’ll support an independent media company that’s focused on creating great content for runners!

After a Run: Where to Eat in the Finger Lakes Region

Cafe 19 — Swing by Cafe 19 for breakfast or a light lunch after a run on the Cayuga-Seneca Canal Trail. You’ll find coffee, fresh-baked goods, sandwiches, and soups — many of which are gluten-free.
20 East Bayard Street, Seneca Falls; 315-568-1183

Cayuga Lake Creamery — The Interlaken location along Cayuga Lake is the perfect stop after visiting the trails in Taughannock Falls State Park. Grab a pulled pork sandwich and a scoop of homemade coffee ice cream.
8421 State Route 89, Interlaken
215 North Cayuga Street, Ithaca

Franco’s Pizzeria — Truly, the definition of post-run carbs has to be New York-style pizza. Locally owned and in a brand new location, it is within easy walking distance of Ithaca’s Waterfront and Black Diamond Trails. If you find yourself on a bike the day you stop by, picking at a folded pizza from a top tube bag after riding to Taughannock Falls State Park is about as good as it gets.
527 West State Street, Ithaca; 607-319-5132

Gorgers — If you got your hands dirty on one of the local trails and want to keep them that way (after washing, of course), Gorgers is the place to go. While they specialize in subs, consider ordering the fries in two styles and saving some for later.
116 West State Street, Ithaca; 607-319-5046

A pizza and two beers on a picnic table with — (Photo courtesy of Grist Iron Brewing)

Grist Iron Brewing Co. — After a long day on the trails, settle in at a picnic table on the patio to enjoy a pint of local craft beer and views of Seneca Lake. Local wine and cider are also available. If you’re in the mood for a bite to eat, you have options: pulled pork nachos, barbecue plates and sandwiches, thin-crust pizzas, and more.
4880 NY-414, Burdett; 607-882-2739

Grounded Coffee — Just up the street from the Finger Lakes Welcome Center and Seneca Lake State Park in Geneva, Grounded is a great place to swing by for a latte and a pastry after a run — or before a casual stroll on the lakefront path.
68 Castle Street, Geneva; 315-325-4063

A plated sandwich on an English muffin — (Photo courtesy of Hound & Mare)

Hound & Mare — Order a nitro cold brew and an egg sandwich to refuel with at this quaint downtown Ithaca coffee shop.
118 North Aurora Street, Ithaca; 607-319-4463

Ithaca Bakery — Ithaca Bakery has been an Ithaca mainstay for more than 100 years. The wide variety of fresh-baked bagels and breads make the perfect bookends for breakfast and lunch sandwiches and paninis. Plenty of vegetarian and vegan options are on the menu, plus gluten-free bread options.
400 North Meadow Street, Ithaca; 607-273-7110
2255 North Triphammer Road, Ithaca; 607-257-2255

Liquid State Brewing Co. / Silo Food Truck — A large offering of beverages from Liquid State Brewing Co. and the stellar Silo Food Truck nearby makes for a great Friday evening in the heat of summer. Silo tends to specialize in chicken, but they have plenty of vegan options.
620 West Green Street, Ithaca

Monaco’s Coffee — Another downtown Geneva coffee shop, stop by for a cold brew or a matcha latte. Avocado toast, house-made granola, a breakfast sandwich, and a breakfast burrito are among food options.
115 Washington Street, Geneva; 315-787-0397

Five muffins topped with nuts — (Photo courtesy of Patisserie)

Patisserie — One of the best bakeries in the Finger Lakes region. While most assume the sweetness of cookies and cupcakes would be where they shine, Patisserie is possibly most well-known for their Stretch bread (another item that does well in a bicycle frame bag if you can spare the space).
4 Hannum Street, Skaneateles; 315-685-2433

Shortstop Deli — Think Subway but with better sandwiches, cookies, and prices. Another local sub favorite in the Ithaca area, Shortstop has served customers day and night since 1978.
200 West Seneca Street, Ithaca; 607-273-1030

Spotted Duck — Named the best ice cream in America by influencer Cohen Thompson and his friends, Seneca Lake’s Spotted Duck has seen some fame. Ingredients are sourced from the on-site duck farm and around the Finger Lakes region, and most are organic. Rotating flavors include Java Junction, Fleur Blue, Wicked Chocolate, Blueberry Stressel, Candied Coconut, Gingerbread, Cinnamon Stick, and others.
999 State Route 54, Penn Yan; 315-509-3939

Super Cream Dairy Bar — Another well-loved ice cream location with just enough choices to occupy your summer. Located in Homer, southeast of Skaneateles Lake, the drive is worth it and serves as a good pit stop if you’re making the journey to Beak and Skiff.
75 North West Street, Homer; 607-749-3348

The Elf In The Oak — Homemade salads, sandwiches, soup, and baked goods served with a spectacular view of Seneca Lake (open seasonally).
4221 NY-414, Burdett; 607-546-4641

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