Fillmore Glen State Park in Moravia, New York, delivers a crisp, rugged hike that charges you through dramatic gorges carved by persistent waters and crowned with cascading waterfalls. This 2.5-mile loop trail carefully maps a course around seven falls, where cliffs rise like stone guardians and the creek dares you forward with every rush and splash. The trail grades gently with some moderate elevation changes, totalling around 400 feet of gain—enough to challenge but not exhaust.

From the trailhead, forested paths lead you into a living canyon where sunlight dapples through maples and oaks. The creek whispers beneath rocky bridges, calling the eye to shifting textures: moss-covered boulders, fallen logs, and swirling pools. Each waterfall speaks its own language—some a sudden plunge, others a slow trickle over smooth stone—inviting you to pause and listen.

Here, your boots encounter a mix of dirt, roots, and occasional slippery rock, so sturdy footwear is key. Staying hydrated is equally important; carry at least two liters, as the park lacks potable water sources on the trail. The best times to hike are spring through fall, when weather is stable, and the falls are most lively. Early mornings give you the clearest air and softer light for photos, while afternoons warm the rock features.

Preparing for Fillmore Glen means packing a layered outfit, due to the gorge’s cooler microclimate. A lightweight rain jacket can shield you from sudden showers or waterfall mist. While cell service varies, the park is well-marked and safe for solo adventurers, though caution around wet rocks is necessary.

This hike invites you to move at a steady pace and respect the force of water tirelessly reshaping the land. It’s an active dialogue between hiker and wild, where nature is its own fierce artist, etching every detail you witness. Whether you seek momentary escape or an afternoon of focused adventure, Fillmore Glen’s gorges and waterfalls deliver a rewarding trek that is as instructive to your senses as it is invigorating to your body.