One of New York’s Most Underrated State Parks Hides a 3-Mile Gorge Trail, Scenic Overlooks & Towering Cliffs

Looking for a quiet Upstate escape with fiery autumn foliage that rivals the Adirondacks? Whetstone Gulf State Park , tucked away on the edge of the Tug Hill Plateau near Lowville, offers some of the state’s most dramatic cliffs and gorges—without the crowds . For those following our guides to Upstate NY fall getaways or hidden leaf-peeping spots, this underrated gem deserves a top spot on your itinerary. Stretching across 2,100 acres, the park’s centerpiece is a three-mile, 380-foot-deep gorge carved by Whetstone Creek , with towering cliffs that explode with reds, oranges, and golds come October. From the trails to the water, every angle makes for a picture-perfect leaf-peeping adventure. Whetstone Gulf’s must-see features ---------------------------------- 🥾 The Gorge & Rim Trails: For hikers, the 5.5–6 mile North and South Rim Trail loop delivers sweeping views over the gorge that are absolutely breathtaking. Towering cliffs, vibrant autumn leaves, and panoramic overlooks make it one of the most scenic hikes in New York—yet it remains wonderfully uncrowded. 🎣 Whetstone Reservoir: Nestled above the gorge, the serene reservoir reflects the surrounding autumn woods. It’s perfect for fishing (try tiger muskie or largemouth bass) or paddling in a kayak while soaking in the fiery fall colors. 🏕️ Quiet camping & picnic spots: With roughly 56–62 wooded campsites, mornings here are crisp, quiet, and perfect for stargazing or fireside coffee. Along Whetstone Creek, hidden picnic tables offer idyllic spots to unwind, listen to the water, and enjoy the crunch of autumn leaves. 🐶 Pet-friendly & year-round fun: Leashed pups are welcome, and the park transforms into a winter wonderland with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling if you visit later in the season. Secret NYC’s expert tips for the park ------------------------------------- * Best time to visit: Late September through October for peak foliage. * Hidden gems: Don’t miss secret viewpoints along the North Rim Trail or a quiet float on the reservoir. * Photography hotspot: The combination of the gorge cliffs, creek, and mirror-like water makes this a favorite for photographers seeking dramatic autumn landscapes. Before you go, check the official New York State Parks website for hours, camping reservations, and entry updates to plan your visit to this quiet corner of the state! Source: https://secretnyc.co/whetstone-gulf-state-park-upstate-ny/