New York is home to some of the most captivating waterfalls in the United States, with options ranging from the iconic Niagara Falls to the charming Rainbow Falls in Watkins Glen. Each waterfall has unique features that make it worth exploring, from awe-inspiring cascades to serene forest trails.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best waterfalls across New York, providing an in-depth look at each location, travel tips, and fun activities to enjoy during your visit.
1. Niagara Falls
One of the world’s most famous waterfalls, Niagara Falls consists of three main waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Located on the border of New York and Ontario, Niagara Falls offers breathtaking views and a range of activities, including:
- Maid of the Mist boat tours, which take you close to the falls.
- Cave of the Winds, where you can walk along platforms near the falls.
For panoramic views, visit Niagara Falls State Park or the Observation Tower. The park is also illuminated at night, creating a magical scene for visitors.
Have you visited Niagara Falls before?
- Yes, and I loved it!
- No, but I want to go!
- Not sure if it’s for me.
2. Kaaterskill Falls
Located in the Catskill Mountains, Kaaterskill Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in New York, with a dramatic two-tiered drop of nearly 260 feet. This waterfall is especially stunning in autumn when the surrounding forest turns shades of red, orange, and yellow. A 1.4-mile round-trip hike leads you to the falls, where you can enjoy the view from the base.
- Best Time to Visit: Autumn for fall foliage.
- Safety Tip: Avoid venturing too close to the edge; the rocks can be very slippery.
3. Watkins Glen State Park – Rainbow Falls
Watkins Glen State Park is famous for its Rainbow Falls, where water flows gracefully through a narrow gorge, creating a fairy-tale-like scene. The Gorge Trail lets you walk behind the falls and enjoy breathtaking views of the stone bridge and lush surroundings. The park has 19 waterfalls in total, making it a must-visit for waterfall enthusiasts.
- Nearby Attractions: Watkins Glen International (NASCAR track) and Seneca Lake.
- Insider’s Tip: Plan an afternoon visit to catch a rainbow over the falls if the sun is shining.
4. Ausable Chasm – Rainbow Falls
Another Rainbow Falls can be found in Ausable Chasm, known as the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks.” Located in the Adirondacks, this series of waterfalls within Ausable Chasm offers visitors options for hiking, rafting, and scenic views.
- Pro Tip: View the falls from the Route 9 bridge for a fantastic photo opportunity.
- Activities: Explore the gorge, which includes cliff walks and rafting trips through the chasm.
5. Taughannock Falls
With a staggering 215-foot drop, Taughannock Falls near Ithaca surpasses Niagara Falls in height. The waterfall is accessible from an easy hiking trail within Taughannock Falls State Park and offers a stunning backdrop of cliffs and lush forests.
- Best Views: Use the overlook at the trail’s end for a perfect perspective.
- Nearby: Explore Cayuga Lake and local wineries in the Finger Lakes region.
6. Chittenango Falls
Set in Chittenango Falls State Park, this 167-foot glacial waterfall is surrounded by rock formations over 400 million years old. Trails and footbridges loop around the falls, allowing for views from different angles.
- Tip: Wear hiking boots as some areas are steep.
- Fun Fact: The park has fossilized bedrock from an ancient sea.
7. Buttermilk Falls
Named after the foamy water that cascades down rocks, Buttermilk Falls is a series of waterfalls that flow into a natural pool at Buttermilk Falls State Park near Ithaca. The park offers swimming areas in the lower falls and hiking trails that lead up the gorge, providing views of smaller cascades along the way. Buttermilk Falls is especially popular for family trips due to its swimming area and picnic facilities, making it both a refreshing and scenic destination.
- Location: Buttermilk Falls State Park, Ithaca, NY
- Features: Series of cascading falls, excellent for hiking and picnicking in lush surroundings.
8. High Falls
High Falls in Rochester is an urban waterfall with a height of 96 feet, located in the center of the city’s historic district. Once central to the city’s industry, High Falls is now surrounded by scenic walking trails, parks, and historic buildings. The High Falls Visitor Center offers information on the area’s history, including its importance to Native American tribes and its role in the industrial era. The waterfall is lit up at night, creating a beautiful scene against the city skyline.
- Location: Rochester, NY
- Height: 96 feet
- Highlights: An urban waterfall with a scenic overlook in the historic district of Rochester.
9. Hector Falls
Visible from Route 414, Hector Falls is a roadside attraction near Watkins Glen. This multi-tiered waterfall flows directly into Seneca Lake, creating a stunning view that’s easily accessible for those passing through the Finger Lakes region. The falls are especially beautiful in early spring when water levels are highest, and no hiking is required, making it a convenient stop for travelers.
- Location: Route 414, near Watkins Glen, NY
- Features: Roadside waterfall with impressive size, easily viewed from the road.
10. Wellesley Island State Park – Minna Anthony Falls
Located in the Thousand Islands region, this waterfall is part of the Minna Anthony Nature Center, a family-friendly park with scenic trails and wildlife exhibits. The waterfall itself is modest but provides a peaceful setting for birdwatching and hiking along the St. Lawrence River. The park offers interpretive programs, including birdwatching tours and environmental education, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts.
- Location: Castile, NY
- Features: Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” these falls cascade along the Genesee River and offer hiking, camping, and ballooning.
11. Letchworth State Park – Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls
Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park features a series of waterfalls along the Genesee River. Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls offer distinct scenic views, connected by hiking trails that pass by the river gorge. The park also offers hot air ballooning, camping, and horseback riding, making it a versatile destination for outdoor activities. Letchworth State Park is particularly famous for its autumn foliage, creating a breathtaking contrast against the waterfalls.
12. Stony Brook Falls
Stony Brook Falls is the highlight of Stony Brook State Park in Dansville, with cascades that flow into several natural pools. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails or enjoy swimming in the lower falls’ designated area. The shaded trails and cool waters make Stony Brook Falls a popular summer destination, offering a natural escape from the heat.
- Location: Stony Brook State Park, Dansville, NY
- Highlights: Offers a series of cascades in a gorge, accessible by scenic hiking trails.
13. Ithaca Falls
Situated near Cornell University in Ithaca, this massive 150-foot waterfall is one of the largest in New York. It’s located right in the city and easily accessible, making it popular among locals and students. A trail leads directly to the base of the falls, allowing for close-up views of the powerful water flow. Ithaca Falls is a popular spot for fishing and offers a scenic, peaceful retreat within the city limits.
- Location: Ithaca, NY
- Height: 150 feet
- Features: Massive falls right in the city, with trails leading to a picturesque view at the base.
14. Salmon River Falls
Salmon River Falls is a 110-foot waterfall located in the Salmon River Falls Unique Area in Altmar. It offers viewing platforms and trails, with the waterfall reaching its peak during spring. In winter, the falls partially freeze, creating a striking, icy landscape. The surrounding area is popular for fishing, hiking, and snowshoeing, especially during the colder months when the waterfall transforms into an ice-covered marvel.
- Location: Salmon River Falls Unique Area, Altmar, NY
- Height: 110 feet
- Highlights: Seasonal hiking trails lead to overlooks and the river’s edge; especially beautiful in winter when partially frozen.
15. Middle Falls – Trenton Falls Scenic Trail
Located in Trenton, NY, Middle Falls is part of the scenic Trenton Falls Gorge Trail. This area is only open seasonally, but guided tours provide historical insights into the region’s geology and the role of the waterfall in local industry. The waterfalls here are surrounded by lush greenery, making them a beautiful backdrop for photography.
- Location: Trenton, NY
- Details: Only open seasonally, with guided tours offering historical insights and access to scenic waterfalls.
16. Kensico Dam Plaza Waterfall
This artificial waterfall at Kensico Dam Plaza is part of a scenic park near Valhalla, NY. The plaza offers picnic spots, playgrounds, and seasonal events, and the waterfall is beautifully integrated into the dam’s design. It’s a peaceful retreat just outside New York City, with nearby trails for hiking and nature walks.
- Location: Valhalla, NY
- Features: An artificial waterfall part of a scenic dam; surrounded by picnic areas and hiking trails.
17. Bash Bish Falls
Though officially located in Mount Washington, Massachusetts, Bash Bish Falls is accessible from the New York side and is popular with visitors from both states. The 80-foot waterfall drops into a clear pool, with trails offering views from different vantage points. Known for its dramatic cliffs, Bash Bish Falls is ideal for adventurous hikers and photographers.
- Location: Mount Washington, MA (accessible from NY)
- Height: 80 feet
- Highlights: A popular waterfall on the MA-NY border; ideal for cross-state nature trips.
18. Carpenter Falls
A secluded waterfall located in Bahar Nature Preserve, Carpenter Falls features a series of cascades along a peaceful forest trail. The falls are surrounded by lush vegetation, making it a serene destination for nature enthusiasts looking to escape the crowds. Trails vary in difficulty, with some sections offering closer views of the falls.
- Location: Bahar Nature Preserve, Moravia, NY
- Features: Secluded falls accessible by trails, surrounded by lush woods.
19. Dunn’s Creek Falls
Located in the Hudson Valley region, Dunn’s Creek Falls is known for its serene environment and easy access, making it a favorite for locals and tourists looking for a quick escape. The waterfall flows gently over layered rock formations, creating a series of cascades that are especially picturesque in spring when the water flow is strongest. Hiking trails surround the falls, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding woodland and enjoy views of the creek. The peaceful atmosphere and accessibility make Dunn’s Creek Falls an ideal location for families and those new to hiking.
- Location: Hudson Valley, NY
- Highlights: Known for its peaceful setting and surrounding hiking trails.
20. Stockbridge Falls
Stockbridge Falls is a hidden gem situated in Stockbridge Valley in Madison County, known for its quiet, off-the-beaten-path experience. This multi-tiered waterfall flows over shale and limestone ledges, creating small pools and cascades that are perfect for photography and relaxation. Accessible by a short hike, Stockbridge Falls offers a tranquil spot for nature enthusiasts looking to explore a less crowded area. The best time to visit is during the spring melt when water flow is at its peak. The surrounding valley is rich in wildlife and flora, enhancing the experience for visitors.
- Location: Stockbridge Valley, Madison County, NY
- Details: A hidden gem perfect for serene hikes and nature photography.
21. Enfield Glen Falls (Robert H. Treman State Park)
Located within Robert H. Treman State Park in Ithaca, Enfield Glen Falls is part of a dramatic gorge with multiple waterfalls, the most famous being Lucifer Falls. This 115-foot waterfall drops into a deep pool, surrounded by towering rock walls and lush vegetation. A series of trails, including the Gorge Trail, offer various viewpoints of the falls and lead to other scenic areas within the park. Enfield Glen Falls is popular for swimming during the summer months, as the park has designated natural pools. The area is also ideal for camping, making it a favorite for weekend getaways.
- Location: Ithaca, NY
- Highlights: Features Lucifer Falls; scenic trails with a natural pool at the base.
22. Big Fill Hollow Falls
Located in Allegany County, Big Fill Hollow Falls is a seasonal waterfall that flows during the spring thaw and after heavy rainfalls. This waterfall is set within a secluded area, surrounded by dense woodland and rolling hills. Reaching the falls requires a moderate hike, which adds to the adventure for visitors. Due to its seasonal nature, Big Fill Hollow Falls is best visited in the early spring when water levels are higher, creating a more dramatic flow. The surrounding forested area is also home to diverse wildlife, making it an ideal spot for birdwatchers and nature photographers.
- Location: Allegany County, NY
- Details: Seasonal waterfall, best viewed during spring melt or after heavy rains.
23. Hanging Bog Falls
Hanging Bog Falls is nestled within the Hanging Bog Wildlife Management Area, a protected space in western New York known for its biodiversity and birdwatching opportunities. This small, charming waterfall flows into a boggy area, creating a unique habitat for aquatic plants and animals. The surrounding area includes a network of trails that wind through forests and wetlands, making it a popular spot for hiking and nature observation. The waterfall itself is modest, but the area’s untouched natural beauty offers visitors a peaceful escape, particularly for those interested in exploring ecosystems unique to wetlands.
- Location: Hanging Bog Wildlife Management Area, NY
- Features: Small falls in a protected wildlife area, ideal for birdwatching.
24. Wiscoy Falls
Wiscoy Falls in Wyoming County is a multi-tiered waterfall known for its scenic beauty and accessibility. The falls cascade over four distinct levels, with each drop creating small, picturesque pools. The surrounding area includes trails and overlooks, allowing visitors to view the falls from multiple angles. Wiscoy Falls is especially popular among photographers and is frequented by anglers due to the abundance of fish in Wiscoy Creek. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the area, making it a beautiful destination for fall foliage enthusiasts. The falls are a popular day trip destination for locals.
- Location: Wiscoy Creek, Wyoming County, NY
- Highlights: Popular for fishing and photography, with accessible footpaths.
25. Panther Creek Falls
Located in the scenic Catskill Mountains, Panther Creek Falls is a hidden gem, accessible by a moderate hiking trail. This secluded waterfall flows into a rocky creek bed surrounded by dense forest, creating a serene environment for hikers. Panther Creek Falls is ideal for those seeking a quiet and somewhat challenging adventure, as the trail can be rugged in certain areas. The forest surrounding the falls is rich in plant and animal life, enhancing the experience for nature lovers. This waterfall is particularly beautiful in late spring and early summer when the flow is strongest.
- Location: Catskills, NY
- Highlights: A hidden gem with moderate trails, surrounded by scenic woodlands.
Each of these waterfalls offers a unique glimpse into New York’s natural beauty, from secluded woodland cascades to grand multi-tiered falls. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker, a nature photographer, or a family looking for a scenic escape, these waterfalls provide something for everyone.
How Well Do You Know New York’s Waterfalls?
Quiz: Which waterfall in New York is taller than Niagara Falls?
- a) Watkins Glen Rainbow Falls
- b) Kaaterskill Falls
- c) Taughannock Falls
- d) Ithaca Falls
(Answer: c) Taughannock Falls)
Tips for Planning Your Waterfall Adventure in New York
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer, when the waterfalls are at their fullest due to melting snow and seasonal rainfall.
- Safety First: Many trails and viewing points can be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear and follow all posted safety guidelines.
- Photography Tips: Early morning or late afternoon light creates the best conditions for capturing the beauty of waterfalls.
- Respect Nature: Stay on marked paths to protect the surrounding environment and ensure your safety.
Key Takeaways
- New York’s Waterfalls: New York has a diverse array of waterfalls, from towering drops to secluded cascades.
- Top Spots: Highlights include Niagara Falls, Kaaterskill Falls, and Watkins Glen Rainbow Falls.
- Unique Features: Each waterfall offers different experiences, from adventurous hikes to easy viewpoints.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, New York’s waterfalls offer something for everyone. Each location tells its own story, adding to the state’s natural beauty and making it a top destination for nature lovers.
