Waterfalls, Waterfalls Everywhere … in Watkins Glen

On the southern end of Seneca Lake in New York State's Finger Lakes region lies Watkins Glen, an area of lush green rolling hills that offers diverse attractions. Besides the namesake auto raceway, there are world-class wines, U-pick blueberry patches, farm stands, and antique shops—and, just a short walk from downtown, waterfalls everywhere—in Watkins Glen State Park.

Staircases of stone and rustic paths zigzag up and down towering walls of rock, along creeks, over narrow footbridges, through Spiral Gorge and Spiral Tunnels, under aptly named Rainbow Falls and Cavern Cascade, and along Cliff Path and other cooling formations. Water cascades over ledges of limestone carved by glaciers some 12,000 years ago; spectacular overlooks of bluffs and natural pools abound. Originally inhabited by Native Americans, the site later housed a mill and private tourist resorts, and the vast glen became a state park in 1906.

One of my favorite places is Farm Sanctuary, a refuge for rescued cows, goats, sheep, turkeys, hogs, and other farmed animals that's not far from the park. A great time to visit is during the upcoming Country Hoe Down, August 6 and 7.

From there, you can trek the Catharine Valley Trail or visit a winery—check out this list of local vintners who don't use animal products, including Glenora Wine Cellars.  You can also head downtown to sample dishes made using a terrific array of local produce, from Swiss chard and fennel to peaches and plums.

At Wildflower Café and Crooked Rooster Brewpub,  you can quench your thirst while chowing down on tangy moonrise vegan ribs, avocado pizza, charbroiled veggies, veggie panini (hold the cheese), veggie soba noodles with sesame, and roasted sweet corn and red bell pepper cakes served with rice and hot-pepper jam.

Nearby, House of Hong offers a separate vegetarian menu with selections from mild to hot home-style bean curd and Chinese vegetables with water chestnuts. Glen Mountain Market serves up tasty tofu burgers, roasted red pepper sandwiches, and some vegan artisan breads. Don't skip vegetarian-centric Good Groceries (their motto: "Food is love"), which has been satisfying vegan appetites for a decade.

For dessert, the Great Escape Ice Cream Parlor—a Watkins Glen institution for nearly three decades—serves luscious dairy-free soft-serve made right on site. For more on vegan options in the region, be sure to check Happy Cow and Veg Guide.

Where to stay? The Ginger Cat Bed and Breakfast, just northwest of downtown, is vegan-owned and -run, companion-animal–friendly, and a superb place to eat, with delectable fare, from fruited waffles to entrées to chocolate cake. Budget travelers can camp in Watkins Glen State Park.

Sounds like a wonderful midsummer's dream vacation? For visitor information, call 1-800-607-4552 or visit watkinsglenchamber.com. Been to Watkins Glen? Share your tales.