While not as numerous as California’s, there is no shortage of breathtaking waterfalls in the Empire State. So, if you love chasing waterfalls, there are plenty of opportunities to witness and feel the thrill of these wonders of nature. From the world-famous Niagara Falls to the unique Eternal Flame Falls, here are some must-visit waterfalls across New York this summer.
Niagara Falls
One of the world’s most visited natural wonders, Niagara Falls is famous for its large volumes of water cascading over its three waterfalls. About 600,000 gallons of water flow over the falls, the highest volume in North America. Much of this flow (90%) plunges over Horseshoe Falls, the largest of the falls, while the rest goes over American and Bridal Veil Falls. Summer is a prime time to experience the dramatic scenery of the waterfalls.
Ithaca Falls
With over 150 stunning waterfalls cascading through dramatic gorges, Ithaca’s scenery is a showstopper. One must-visit is on Cayuga Lake’s southern tip, the last waterfall along Fall Creek. At 175 feet wide and 150 feet high, Ithaca Falls is one of the area’s most striking and powerful cascades. An easy out-and-back 0.2-mile trail leads to the waterfall.
Letchworth State Park’s Waterfalls
Often considered one of America’s most stunning state parks, Letchworth State Park’s beauty is hard to outshine. Dubbed “The Grand Canyon of the East,” it’s home to three impressive waterfalls, the Upper, Middle, and Lower. Carved by the Genesee River, these waterfalls enjoy scenic, lush surroundings and offer several hiking opportunities. There are multiple places to sit, relax, and enjoy the view of the falls.
Watkins Glen State Park’s Cascades
Watkins Glen State Park is one of the most beautiful places in New York. The park’s main highlight is the 400-foot-deep gorge, carved by the Glen Creek, and the 19 waterfalls. The waterfalls are all within a two-mile trail, allowing easy access to an up-close view of these beauties. The cascades, unique rock formations, and streams create gorgeous scenery you shouldn’t miss on your summer bucket list.
Taughannock Falls
Located in the state park of the same name, Taughannock Falls plunges 215 feet into the stunning gorge below. The waterfall, the highest free-falling cascade east of the Mississippi River, is one of the Eastern US’s most iconic natural landmarks. The park has many scenic hikes, but if you want to enjoy the falls’ scenery from the base, hike the Gorge Trail.
Buttermilk Falls
Visiting Buttermilk Falls State Park is one of the best things to do in Ithaca. The park is best known for its namesake waterfall, which stands out for its foaming nature, where it gets its name. As it cascades 165 feet down, it creates a foamy buttermilk-like appearance, a distinct feature among New York waterfalls. The park has numerous scenic trails, but none is as worthwhile as the Gorge Trail.
Seneca Mills Falls
Seneca Mills Falls offers a combination of breathtaking scenery and historical significance. It’s a portion of the Keuka Outlet Trail. The waterfall was discovered by the area’s first white settlers in the 1790s and played a vital role in the Finger Lakes’ industrial history as a power source for the mills. You can get to the falls via a 5.2-mile out-and-back trail that meanders through Cascade Mill Falls, the other waterfall on the Keuka Outlet Trail.
Kaaterskill Falls
Dropping 260 feet, Kaaterskill Falls is one of New York’s tallest and most beautiful cascades. The two-tiered waterfall has been a tourist attraction and a source of inspiration for artists since the 19th century. You can access the falls via several hikes, including the Kaaterskill Falls from Laurel House, a moderately strenuous hike that takes under an hour to complete.
Cohoes Falls
Cohoes Falls, extending about 1,000 feet across, is New York’s second-largest waterfall, after the iconic Niagara Falls. It’s 90 feet high and offers natural beauty and historic charm. It was a natural power source for the Harmony Mills, once the world’s largest cotton mill. Head to the Falls Views Park via the 192-foot pedestrian bridge, and enjoy a range of observation points and access to numerous scenic trails.
Chittenango Falls
The 167-foot Chittenango Falls is the main highlight in Chittenango Falls State Park, a 193-acre park east of Cazenovia Lake. The two-tiered waterfall stands out for its unique appearance, cascading over the Onondaga Limestone Escarpment before dropping into the gorge below. You can reach the waterfall via a half-mile loop trail that will only take 18 minutes.
Bash Bish Falls
Bash Bish Falls is right on the border of Massachusetts and New York. It’s a portion of Massachusetts’ Bash Bish State Park, accessible via a 1.6-mile out-and-back trail in Taconic State Park, near Copake Falls. The well-maintained trail allows easy access to the dramatic scenery of the falls from New York. You can bring your furry friends, but they must be on a leash.
Shequaga Falls
Located in Montour Falls, the Finger Lakes region’s southern gateway, Shequaga Falls is a dramatic cascade dropping 156 feet down a limestone cliff. The waterfall, part of the Shequaga Falls Park, is just past Montour Falls’ Main Street and is accessible via an easy trail that stretches about 0.4 miles (round trip). The scenery, ease of access, and the falls’ impressive height make it a must-do in the summer.
Shelving Rock Falls
Shelving Rock Falls is among the most scenic trails along Lake George, lying on the eastern side. The 50-foot multi-tiered waterfall cascades over several rock formations before finally dropping into a single stream below. It’s 150 feet wide at the top and can be reached via an easy dirt trail perfect for a summer family adventure. There are also plenty of nearby trails you can explore.
Hector Falls
Hector Falls are a breathtaking wonder of nature along Seneca Lake’s eastern shore. The multi-tiered cascade plunges over 165 feet, reaching 250 feet if counted from the top of the cliff to the bottom. Unfortunately, you can only see the upper drop (50 feet) from the road as the rest of the cascade drops down below, and later pours into Seneca Lake. Still, it’s an impressive sight worth your time in summer.
Eternal Flame Falls
A portion of the Shale Creek Preserve, Eternal Flame Falls is one of New York’s most unique and breathtaking waterfalls. Its most striking feature is the small natural-gas-fueled flame that remains lit year-round. You can reach the 35-foot-high waterfall via a 1.2-mile out-and-back trail, considered moderately challenging. It’s a must-do hike in summer, but get prepared to get a bit wet and navigate slippery and potentially muddy conditions, especially when it rains. Bring proper hiking shoes.
