Hi -
We are planning a family trip to the Finger Lakes are in early July, and I'm trying to decide in which area/lake to stay. We have 2 kids (7 and 3) and are mostly interested in water activities and some hiking. How do you choose a lake? Also - would love to hear from anyone that tried the hot-air-baloons...
thanks,
Iris

I think you would like the Watkins Glen area. The hike up the glen is beautiful. It is at the base of Seneca Lake. Also think you would like Ithaca which is at the base of Cayuga Lake. The hike up the glen in Watkins Glen is a must although it might be too much for a 3 year old. I think you would probably be carrying the 3 year old a lot. It's a lot of up hill walking. Geneva is also a nice town at the top of Seneca Lake. I have done a hot air balloon ride from (Jamesville, NY) and I assure you - you will like it.
Hope this helps.
Annika

One of my favorite short hikes in the Finger Lakes area is to Taughannock Falls. It's near Ithaca.

Thank you both -
It was very helpful. This area looks great and I found a site with B&B listings in Watkins Glen.

Your welcome iris. I second karens suggestion about Taughannock Falls. Very beautiful.

In the movie The Last of the Mohicans there is a scene with the Huron chief sitting in front of a beautiful waterfall. I could swear it is at Taughannock Falls. I know the movie was mostly filmed in PA but this one scene looks like Taughannock.

Enjoy your trip!
Annika