Finger Lakes

Region in central New York State that includes 11 finger-shaped lakes running north–south, almost parallel with one another. Situated between Geneseo, to the west, and Syracuse, to the east, the Finger Lakes resemble fjords, with their steep walls, many waterfalls and glens, rugged rock formations, and grottoes. Many visitors come to the region each year.

The four small western lakes – Conesus, Hemlock, Canadice, and Honeoye – drain west to the Genesee River and north through Rochester, finally emptying into Lake Ontario. The group of seven to the east – Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca, Cayuga, Owasco, Skaneateles, and Otisco – drain to the Seneca River, then north into Lake Ontario. Once preglacial stream valleys, the Finger Lakes were deepened and widened by glacial gouging. Because of the steep angle of the slopes, the region is ideally suited to growing grapes, and many vineyards, as well as orchards and vegetable farms, have developed on the lakesides. Several resorts, and 13 state parks, are located in the vicinity of the lakes.