Keuka Lake Outlet Trail
Keuka Lake is one of only two Finger Lakes that outlets into another Finger Lake, that being Seneca Lake. The Keuka Lake Outlet, which drops 270 feet from Keuka Lake down into Seneca Lake, was used for many years for industry and transportation. The outlet powered mills of all types from 1789 until 1968. Today the outlet provides a wealth of beauty and history to those who walk, bike, or cross country ski the trail that meanders along side her. The drop is gradual and spread out along the 7.5 mile trail. By bike it is not overly strenuous, yet it is suggested that you start in Dresden and work toward Penn Yan. When you are tired from your slight uphill travels, you'll be happy that the return trip has gravity working on your behalf.
Things to see on the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail
- Remnants from the old "Crooked Lake Canal" which was used for transportation between Seneca and Keuka lakes.
- old locks
- old iron truss bridge for the railroad
- several dams
- First waterfall (at 2 miles in) at the site of several old mills and a 1968 chemical company. The dam creating the upper portion of this falls dates back to 1827.
- The old Kelly Tire Buildings are now home of the Alfred Jensen Memorial Visitor Center. (restrooms)
- Cement marker with "D3" indicates you are 3 miles from Dresden and almost halfway
- Second waterfall is the site of the old Seneca Mill and Lock 17
- Large brick chimney marking the site of a paper mill where a 17-foot flywheel still stands.
- An old blacksmiths shop
- Other historic remanants
For a step by step trail description and map visit Footprintpress
How to get to the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail
There are parking places at both ends of the trail and a couple of places inbetween. Again due to the slight uphill nature of the trail, Dresden is the place to start.
From Geneva
- Take Route 14 South out of Geneva (12.5 miles from Rt 5 & 20 intersection)
- At the intersection of Rt. 14 and Rt 54 turn left onto Main St.
- Then a quick right onto Seneca St.
- The parking area for the trail will be on your right.
From Watkins Glen
- Take Route 14 North out of Watkins Glen (23 miles from Watkins Glen).
- At the intersection of Rt 14 and Rt 54 turn right onto Main St.
- Then a quick right onto Seneca St.
- The parking area for the trail will be on your right.
Link to the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail website
