Finger Lakes Regional Tourism Council Launches
Less Traveled. More Enchanting
Hidden Gems for Nature Lovers and Life Enthusiasts
Finger Lakes Regional Tourism Council Launches “Less Traveled. More Enchanting.” Trail Guide
FINGER LAKES, March 2026 — The Finger Lakes Regional Tourism Council (FLRTC), in collaboration with Evermore, proudly announces the launch of its new Trail Guide: Less Traveled. More Enchanting. Designed to inspire exploration of the region’s hidden gems, this initiative highlights unique and lesser-known outdoor destinations across the 14 counties of the Finger Lakes.
The goal is twofold: to provide visitors with tangible, easy-to-use resources and to encourage exploration of trails that are beautiful, distinctive, and less crowded. By drawing visitation beyond the well-known parks and paths, the guide helps reduce environmental pressure on heavily trafficked areas while supporting broader regional tourism.
A Guide to Hidden Gems
The Less Traveled. More Enchanting. guide offers detailed trail descriptions, including passion points such as wildlife viewing, waterfalls, and family-friendly activities, along with notes on accessibility. From the dramatic 90-foot drop at Carpenter Falls to the rolling forests of Bear Swamp State Forest, and from urban pathways like Syracuse’s Creek Walk to serene preserves such as Huckleberry Swamp, the guide reveals authentic outdoor experiences for nature lovers and life enthusiasts.
The guide also incorporates Leave No Trace principles, which all 14 counties have adopted, reminds visitors to respect and protect the region’s natural beauty for generations to come.
“Both the new website and the Trail Guide present inspiring depictions of the Finger Lakes’ outdoor assets,” said Nigar Hale, Chair of the FLRTC Board. “We are excited about the potential to not only enhance visitor experiences, but also create lasting benefits for communities across our region.”
The 70,000 printed brochures are being distributed throughout the region, including visitor and welcome centers and popular state parks. Visitors can also download the trail guide at www.flxoutdoordexperience.com.
Beyond highlighting outdoor recreation, the Trail Guide has a deeper purpose to support under-highlighted communities across the Finger Lakes. Many of the featured trails are located in or near underserved areas. By encouraging visitors to discover these lesser-known treasures, the initiative creates opportunities for economic growth, as travelers spend at local shops, restaurants, agritourism businesses, and lodging.
About the Finger Lakes Regional Tourism Council
The Finger Lakes Regional Tourism Council is the official tourism promotion agency for the 14-county Finger Lakes vacation region. The council works collaboratively to market the region as a premier travel destination, showcasing its natural beauty, culture, food, wine, and outdoor recreation.