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🪶 5-Day Finger Lakes Itinerary for Hidden Gems, Hiking, and Wellness

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Explore Nature. Move Your Body. Feel Amazing.

If you’re looking for a weight-loss-friendly adventure in the Finger Lakes that skips the touristy vineyards and dives straight into nature, this 5-day itinerary is for you. I focused on less-traveled hikes, soulful spots, and just one special vineyard visit as a treat—because balance is key. Whether you’re traveling solo (like me!) or with a small crew, this journey is meant to reconnect you to your body, your breath, and the beauty of the Earth.


📍Days 1–2: Hammondsport – Waterfalls & Gentle Movement


🌄 Day 1: Forest Views & Sunset Yoga

Base: Hammondsport

  • Morning Hike:Start at Mossy Bank Park Overlook Trail in nearby Bath. This little gem offers panoramic views without the crowds.🧼 Trail length: ~2.5 miles💪 Great for: Glutes, breathwork, and clearing your mind.

  • Afternoon Activity:Stroll along Keuka Lake at Depot Park. Take your shoes off and try grounding on the grass or sand.

  • Evening Reset:Wind down with a lakeside or indoor yoga class at Finger Lakes Yoga. If you don’t find a class, roll out your mat lakeside and flow with the sunset.

Where to Stay:Moonshadow B&B – Peaceful, cozy, and surrounded by nature.


💦 Day 2: Hidden Gorges & Strength in Stillness

  • Morning Hike:Explore the Mitchellsville Gorge Trail. It’s quiet, rich in mossy magic, and features flowing water and stone paths.🧼 Trail length: ~3 miles💪 Moderate intensity with lots of beauty.

  • Lunch:Grab a nourishing bowl at The Park Inn Restaurant—focus on lean protein, leafy greens, and hydration.

  • Afternoon Idea:Bring resistance bands to Keuka Lake State Park for a quick bodyweight circuit under the trees.

  • Evening Activity:Visit the Bluff Point Scenic Overlook for a light walk and reflection time. Great journaling spot!

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📍Days 3–5: Trumansburg – Deep Gorges & Dance Medicine


🌿 Day 3: Gorge Trails & Expressive Movement

  • Morning Hike:Walk the lesser-known North Rim Trail at Taughannock Falls. Skip the main path and enjoy dramatic views with fewer people.🧼 Trail length: ~2.9 miles💪 A mix of stairs, gentle inclines, and incredible gorge views.

  • Lunch:Hazelnut Kitchen – Go light with seasonal greens and grilled protein.

  • Afternoon Movement:Drop in for a dance or intuitive movement class at Odyssey Movement Studio in Trumansburg. If no group classes, call ahead for private options or freestyle in nature!

  • Evening Wind Down:Head to Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway and pull over at Waterburg Rd for a personal sunset stretch session.


💧 Day 4: Waterfalls + One Sip of Wine

  • Morning Hike:Lick Brook Gorge via the Sweedler Preserve is wild, rugged, and rewarding.🧼 Trail length: ~3.5 miles💪 This one’s intense but oh so worth it for the quiet and stunning falls.

  • Lunch + Vineyard Reward:Visit Shalestone Vineyards (by appointment). Sip just one glass of dry red, soak in the views, and toast to your discipline.

  • Evening:Light dinner at Heron Hill Café—opt for a garden salad, veggie soup, or detox tea.


🌅 Day 5: Buttermilk Magic & Soulful Closure

  • Morning Hike:Sunrise at Upper Buttermilk Falls – Rim & Gorge Loop is unforgettable. Go early for stillness and spiritual vibes.🧼 Trail length: 1.7 miles💪 A steep but quick loop with waterfalls and woods.

  • Final Wellness Touch:End your trip with a mindful yoga session at Yoga Farm Ithaca—their classes center around healing and balance.

  • Lunch Before Departure:GreenStar Co-op Café – Grab a fresh smoothie or protein-packed salad for the road. You’ve earned it.


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🧘🏽‍♀️ Packing Must-Haves

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💬 Final Thoughts

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a reconnection to your body, to the wild, and to your inner rhythm. You don’t need a crowded gym or a strict diet plan to feel good again. You need movement, fresh air, intentional meals, and time alone with your thoughts.

Whether you're hiking toward healing, dancing out the old energy, or sipping your one glass of wine in celebration—this trip is proof: You are stronger than you think.


For a PDF Version of this Itinerary, DOWNLOAD IT HERE:


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