The Great Lakes area and Western New York are blessed with diverse landscapes shaped by the powerful forces of glaciers, ancient seas, and geological processes over millions of years. The region is defined by the five majestic Great Lakes—Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario—which are interconnected bodies of fresh water that hold about 20% of the world's surface freshwater. These expansive lakes have greatly influenced the landscape and climate of the area. The shores of the Great Lakes feature sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and picturesque dunes.
One notable example is Niagara Falls, located on the border between the United States and Canada, where the tremendous power of glacial meltwater has shaped the majestic falls and carved the Niagara Gorge. In Western New York, the Appalachian Mountains extend into the region, forming the Allegheny Plateau. This plateau is characterized by scenic hills, valleys, and dense forests, offering ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The Finger Lakes region, located south of Lake Ontario, is renowned for its glacially-carved lakes and picturesque vineyards.
Western New York also boasts the stunning natural wonder of Letchworth State Park, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the East." The park features the deep and rugged gorge of the Genesee River, carved over thousands of years, and offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and waterfalls.
Additionally, the region is rich in natural resources such as shale, limestone, and salt deposits, which have played a significant role in shaping the local economy.
Find the best hikes in the Great Lakes Area + Western New York, located in Indiana and New York. The hikes listed below are from highest rating to lowest. Higher-rated hikes are generally harder, longer days with beautiful scenery and lots of solitude and follows a fun, interesting route.
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