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Dubuque to Watkins Glen · 2 days

A scenic cross-country journey from the banks of the Mississippi River through the heart of the Great Lakes region, concluding at the dramatic shale gorges and waterfalls of the Finger Lakes in New York.

2days
6stops
1470km

The route

Tap a day or a town

You sleep in Cleveland — start in Dubuque, end in Watkins Glen.

DAY01

Dubuque → Cleveland

960 km · 10h 6m driving · long drive · Overnight in Cleveland
  1. 09:00
    Dubuque· start
  2. 229 km · 2h 25m
  3. 12:00
    ⭐ Starved Rock
  4. 731 km · 7h 41m
  5. 15:00
    Cleveland· overnight
DAY02

Presque Isle → Watkins Glen

510 km · 5h 23m driving · long drive
  1. 09:00
    Presque Isle· start
  2. 210 km · 2h 13m
  3. 12:00
    ⭐ Letchworth
  4. 119 km · 1h 15m
  5. 15:00
    Watkins Glen
Heads Up
  • Day 1: 10h 6m driving — plan rest stops
  • Day 2: 5h 23m driving — plan rest stops
  • This route involves approximately 12-14 hours of driving; plan for early departures.
  • Watkins Glen State Park gorge trails are seasonal and typically close in winter.
  • Check for New York State Park parking capacity during peak summer weekends.