Don’t go chasing waterfalls? When it comes to the Finger Lakes region in upstate New York, you’re definitely going to want to find some.
Attracting nature lovers, hikers, and photographers from around the world, the waterfalls near the Finger Lakes are truly breathtaking. Whether you live here or plan to visit, here are five must-see waterfalls.
Taughannock Falls
Located in Taughannock Falls State Park, Taughannock Falls is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the Finger Lakes region. Its 215-foot drop makes it the tallest single-drop waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains.
The Gorge Trail, about three-quarters of a mile long, follows Taughannock Creek and offers stunning views of the waterfall. Taughannock Falls is particularly striking in the spring when the water flow is at its peak, and in the winter, when it becomes a frozen wonderland.
Watkins Glen State Park
Famous for its dramatic 400-foot-deep gorge and series of 19 waterfalls, Watkins Glen State Park is located at the southern tip of Seneca Lake. One of the park’s highlights is Rainbow Falls, where the water cascades over a series of steps before passing under a stone bridge. The trail allows you to walk behind the waterfall, a uniquely beautiful experience.
The park is especially picturesque in autumn, when the foliage changes color to add a vibrant backdrop to already stunning scenery. Enjoy an autumn picnic with friends and your favorite beverages and snacks before going on a hike to see the falls.
Buttermilk Falls State Park
Located south of Ithaca, Buttermilk Falls State Park, is named after its stunning primary waterfall, which cascades down 165 feet. The park is divided into the lower park, where Buttermilk Falls is located, and the upper park, which features another waterfall and a beautiful hiking trail.
Buttermilk Falls State Park also offers opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and camping, making it a great destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
Robert H. Treman State Park
Southwest of Ithaca, Robert H. Treman State Park is home to a series of beautiful waterfalls the most impressive of which is Lucifer Falls. This 115-foot waterfall cascades down a rugged cliff into the gorge below, creating a breathtaking sight.
The park’s several hiking trails form a loop that takes you past several waterfalls and through stunning scenery. A natural swimming area at the base of one of the smaller falls is a popular spot for cooling off on hot summer days.
Ithaca Falls
One of the largest waterfalls in the Finger Lakes region, Ithaca Falls has a drop of 150 feet and a width of 175 feet. The falls are easy to reach via a short, flat trail from a parking area on Lake Street.
Despite its urban location, Ithaca Falls offers a serene and picturesque setting, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The area around Ithaca Falls is rich in history, with remnants of old mills and other industrial structures.
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