It was well before the age of the dinosaurs that an ancient sea covered much of what is now New York State, USA. Over time, layers of sand, silt, and clay settled and formed weak sedimentary rock. With the rise of the Appalachian Mountains, these rocks were lifted above sea level, and about 12,000 years ago—during the last ice age—Watkins Glen began to take shape. Glen Creek slowly eroded the soft rock, carving out nineteen waterfalls and sculpting the gorge walls.

The best way to experience this place is to visit in person. But if you can’t, this gallery offers a glimpse of what nature, time, and water can create.

© 2014 Gaetano Antonini