Yates County is located in the Finger Lakes Region of New York State.  The current population is around 25,000 and the county seat is Penn Yan.  The county has a land area of approximately 338 square miles and includes three of New York State's Finger Lakes.

On the eastern border of Yates County is Seneca Lake, on the western border is Canandaigua Lake, and the mid/southern section is split by Keuka Lake. The scenic lakes and extensive wine industry make Yates County a popular tourist destination. There are four incorporated villages and nine townships situated within the county.  Penn Yan is the largest of four villages and is located at the north end of the east branch of Keuka Lake.

The topography varies from steep hills and valleys in the western townships of the county to relatively flat land in the northern townships to gently rolling hills and valleys in the south, east and central portions. The highest point in the county is Italy Hill at 2140 feet. 

The Bristol Hills Trail runs close to the high point which is on private property.  This trail runs 50+ miles from Ontario County Park south to its junction with the main Finger Lakes Trail.  The Bristol Hills Trail is a branch of the Finger Lakes Trail System.

The county is host to a large agricultural base that also includes a thriving Mennonite population. Some of the various types of agriculture include dairy and crop farms, grape vineyards, and apple orchards.

Hiking Destinations in Yates County

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