College can sometimes feel like a constant cycle of doing the same thing, again and again. Go to class, study, eat, repeat. And when you’re looking to take a break from campus, a weekend getaway doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate. One of my favorite places I have been so far is Watkins Glen, New York which is just an hour from Cortland.
Watkins Glen is a small village at the south end of Seneca Lake in the Finger Lakes area of Upstate New York. It’s scenic, has hiking, waterfalls, and lake views. It’s a popular travel destination but still has a relaxed atmosphere making it easy to escape for a day out of the college grind.
The reasons why I would definitely tell people to visit here are the scenes. There are trees, water and views galore that offer a much different experience from being on campus all week. My favorite spot I would urge people to visit is Watkins Glen State Park.
This park has a gorge trail with waterfalls, bridges, and rocks to enjoy all along the trail! It is a place where you can enjoy the scenery at your own pace and take plenty of pictures.
The main Gorge Trail is only about 1.5 miles, so you can do it even if you’re not someone who typically hikes for an extended period of time. There are trails that are around two to three miles long. I personally recommend going in the fall, especially when the leaves are changing. It will be cooler than summer, and the changing leaves tend to add even more beauty to the gorge and waterfalls. Just watch the weather and call before you go to make sure the Gorge Trail isn’t closed in the winter.
The village itself is also worth taking a walk through after you have been out in nature. You’ll find some nice little cafes, restaurants, shops and other places you can stop to get something to eat or drink. It is easy to spend a couple of hours walking around the village.
College students can go to Watkins Glen for a day trip as it is near enough to Cortland that you are able to enjoy it without investing a lot of time or money into it. Just take some friends and comfortable clothes and head there to spend the entire day. You can walk the mountains, enjoy the scenery, eat, and relax by the lake.
Another nice perk is simply getting out of your dorm for a bit. We all need a fresh breath of air every now and then. A quick trip off campus might be just what the doctor ordered when it comes to a little rejuvenation. Rather than another Saturday stuck in the dorm or repeating your usual habits around Cortland, make an adventure of it with a quick trip in the car.
If you are looking to get away from Cortland for a little while, I definitely recommend going to Watkins Glen. It’s pretty, right around the corner, and just nice way to get a break from college life.
In my opinion, a getaway is always a great idea. Never settle for just a week of going to the same place.