The Upstate New York Mystery That Nobody Can Explain

The Finger Lakes are known for their stunning scenery, world-class wineries, and peaceful waters.

But a mystery lurks in one lake that’s anything but serene.

For over a century, visitors and locals alike have reported seeing something massive moving beneath the surface of Cayuga Lake.

Fishermen have told stories of giant, shadowy shapes gliding past their boats, and boaters have claimed their vessels were bumped by something unseen.

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These aren’t isolated incidents—they’re part of a long-standing legend that keeps drawing attention.

Some believe these sightings can be explained away as giant sturgeons, prehistoric-looking fish that occasionally reach massive sizes. Others chalk it up to floating logs or a trick of the light.

But then some insist that something more extraordinary is at play—a creature so infamous it’s earned the name Old Greeny.

The legend of Old Greeny dates back to the 1800s, with reports chronicled as early as an 1897 Ithaca Journal article describing annual sightings of the serpent for nearly 70 years.

In 1929, witnesses even claimed to see two creatures swimming near the lake’s eastern shore.

Described as a 50-foot-long, serpent-like beast with scaly, greenish skin, Old Greeny has cemented itself as a legendary figure in Finger Lakes lore.

And it’s not just Cayuga. Neighboring lakes like Seneca and Keuka have their own tales of mysterious creatures lurking in their depths.

These stories have even been chronicled by Ithaca.com and other outlets.

So, is Old Greeny real, or is it just a fish tale? Either way, the Finger Lakes’ serene waters come with a side of mystery.

Next time you’re near Cayuga Lake, take a moment to look out at the water.

You might just spot something extraordinary—or at least feel the thrill of wondering what’s lurking below.