Finger Lakes Explorers

Most visitors to the Finger Lakes tend to flock to the larger lakes in the middle of the region – Seneca, Cayuga, Keuka, and Canandaigua. These lakes are home to most of the commercial development and well-known wineries, as well as some incredible parks and historical sites. But there are 7 other lakes that make up the Finger Lakes, and these should not be overlooked. In particular, we want to focus on the westernmost four lakes – Conesus, Hemlock, Canadice, and Honeoye – which are sometimes referred to as the “little lakes.” These smaller lakes may not be as well-known, but they have plenty to offer. Here are 5 reasons to consider adding the little lakes to your next Finger Lakes visit.

5. Less crowded wineries and breweries

The Finger Lakes region is home to almost 150 wineries and over 75 craft breweries, and the majority of these can be found on Seneca, Cayuga, and Keuka Lakes. However, there are still plenty of wineries and breweries to be found on the smaller lakes, including some great options around the little lakes. And with fewer visitors to these little lakes, you’re less likely to run into overcrowding or huge buses of visitors on wine tours, even on the nicest of summer days. Aside from the obvious benefits of this, it allows you more time to talk with staff and learn about their wines and beers and a better opportunity to get to know the local atmosphere. A few of our favorite places around the little lakes include Birdhouse Brewing in Honeoye, Noble Shepherd Brewery, just north of Honeoye in Bloomfield, and No BS Brewery, near Conesus Lake. All have relaxed atmospheres and offer delicious beer. For wineries, check out Deer Run on Conesus Lake and Eagle Crest Vineyard near Hemlock.

4. Amazing scenic views

All of the Finger Lakes are beautiful, with rolling green hills and crystal clear water. However, the views of the little lakes are particularly unique. Because the lakes are that much smaller, you can often get a good view of the entire lake from one vantage point. Each of the little lakes has a park or access point at its northern tip that offers a vista of the eastern, western, and southern boundaries of the lake, all surrounded by green hillsides.

The southern end of Honeoye Lake also offers a great scenic view from above. From Harriett Hollister State Recreation Area, you can take in the entirety of Honeoye Lake and the surrounding hills from a birds eye view. This type of encompassing lake scene is really not found elsewhere in the Finger Lakes.

But to me, the reason why the views around the little lakes are so special and unique is because they are much, much less developed than the larger lakes to the east. In fact, two of these lakes are not developed at all, which I’ll talk about more in the number one reason. But even the development that does exist on these lakes is smaller in scale and mostly residential, which preserves the natural beauty of the lakes.

3. Great hiking

The little lakes offer a wide range of hiking options for all levels of expertise and fitness. Letchworth State Park, located just west of Conesus Lake, is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East” due to its stunning gorge and three major waterfalls. The park spans over 14,000 acres and has a variety of trails ranging from easy to challenging. The Gorge Trail is a popular choice, taking hikers along the rim of the gorge with views of the waterfalls and the Genesee River below. I’d say this trail is pretty moderate. 

For something a little easier, the Canadice Lake Trail is a flat and peaceful hike that follows the western side of Canadice Lake for approximately 3.5 miles. 

Or, for a little variety, head to Harriet Hollister State Recreation Area at the southern end of Honeoye Lake. The park offers a variety of trails with different levels of difficulty, so there’s a little something for everyone and some of those great views. 

And Cumming Nature Center, located just east of Honeoye Lake, is a great place to do some hiking and learning about the local flora and fauna at the same time. The center has 15 miles of easy to moderate trails winding through the 900 acre nature preserve.

2. Friendly and charming small towns

Okay, so charming small towns can be found throughout the Finger Lakes region. But, with less visitor traffic around the little lakes, these small towns maintain much more of a local, authentic feeling than some of the towns more built up for tourism. The little lakes are home to some amazing restaurants and charming shops, and lined with beautiful, historic homes. You’ll want to spend some time poking around the villages of Honeoye, Livonia, and Lakeville. Geneseo, just to the west, is more of a college town but has a great little downtown full of quaint shops and cafes.

1. Undisturbed natural beauty

And the number one reason to visit the little lakes: their undisturbed natural beauty. As I mentioned earlier in the video, the little lakes are much less developed than many of their larger counterparts and, because of that, remain much closer to their original, natural creation. In fact, two of the little lakes, Hemlock and Canadice, aren’t developed at all. That’s right, no houses, businesses, or other real development exists on either of these lakes. This is because Hemlock and Canadice serve as water sources for the city of Rochester and the surrounding region. Development and use of the lakes are strictly regulated. Boats are also restricted in size and motor power, and swimming is prohibited in both lakes. This results in two lakes that are unspoiled and provide a unique opportunity for solitude with nature. There aren’t many places left in the US where you can encounter such undisturbed natural beauty, especially so close to urban areas and developments. There’s really nothing better than taking a kayak out on Hemlock or Canadice and being alone with nature.

There you have it! Our list of 5 reasons the little lakes should be on your next itinerary when visiting the Finger Lakes. Are you sold yet? Let us know in the comments what questions you have about the little lakes or, if you’ve visited, what recommendations you have for others.