Top 10 New York State Park Waterfalls: Your Ultimate Guide for Every Hiker & Visitor

New York State is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and its state parks are a testament to this. Among the many treasures these parks hold are breathtaking waterfalls, cascading down rocky cliffs and plunging into crystal-clear pools. From the thundering Lower Falls at Letchworth State Park to the more delicate Taughannock Falls, the highest single-drop waterfall east of the Rockies, these natural wonders offer a sense of awe and tranquility. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply seeking a scenic escape, exploring these 10 magnificent waterfalls is an unforgettable experience.

This blog post will take you on a virtual journey through some of the most spectacular waterfalls in New York State Parks. We’ll delve into their unique characteristics, provide practical tips for visiting, and highlight the best time of year to witness their grandeur. So, pack your camera, lace up your hiking boots, and prepare to be amazed by the sheer power and beauty of these natural masterpieces.

10 Waterfalls in New York State Parks Worth Visiting

New York’s best state parks include breathtaking waterfalls. From the iconic large waterfalls of the Finger Lakes State Parks to the foothillls of the Adirondacks and Catskills, we’re sharing the most beautiful waterfalls in New York State Parks.

1. Watkins Glen State Park

Rainbow Falls, Central Cascade, and Cavern Cascade

Watkins Glen State Park is a renowned Finger Lakes Region park featuring a stunning gorge with 19 waterfalls cascading over 400 feet within two miles. The park offers hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for swimming and camping.

The Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park is a 2.2-mile-long, out-and-back trail that winds through a narrow gorge, past towering cliffs, and alongside cascading waterfalls. It’s one of the most popular trails in the Finger Lakes Region, and for good reason: it offers stunning scenery and a unique hiking experience.

Wind your way through the gorge, following Glen Creek. Along the way, you’ll encounter a series of waterfalls, each more beautiful than the last. The trail is well-maintained, features neat bridges and stone walkways, and it’s very easy to follow, making it a great option for hikers of all levels.

There are a few other waterfalls in the area that are worth a visit if you’re staying in Watkins Glen for a few days. Aunt Sarah’s Falls free-falls about a third of the way, before it fans out on a steep slope of shale for another third. It then free-falls again into a shallow plunge pool where it immediately crosses under Rt 14. Nearby, you can visit Deckertown Falls and Eagle Cliff Falls as well! Both are just a short walk from the parking area.

💡 Wanderwithkt.com Pro Tip: Park at the upper parking lot around 6:30, 7:00 AM and start hiking toward the main entrance. You’ll get to enjoy the most beautiful part of the trail with great solitude & disappear onto the Indian trail once it starts to get busy to loop back.

2. Letchworth State Park

Upper Falls, Middle Falls, & Lower Falls

Visit the Grand Canyon of the East where you can enjoy magnificent waterfalls: Upper Falls, Middle Falls, and Lower Falls. These waterfalls plunge over a gorge that is 1,400 feet deep and 17 miles long, making it one of the most impressive natural wonders in New York State.

There are a variety of trails at Letchworth State Park that follow the Genesee River and share various waterfall and gorge views. You can park at the main lot by the Glen Iris Inn which provides easy access to Middle and Upper Falls. Visiting Lower Falls does require parking near the cabins and Lower Falls Playground where a short walk down 127 stone steps leads to a beautiful bridge over the river with incredible views. 

You can hike the portion of the Gorge Trail that connects these two areas of the park if you’re looking for a more strenuous hike. If you’re looking to explore the park in full, hike the full 7.5-mile one-way Gorge Trail from the St. Helena Picnic Area to the parking area for Upper Falls.

Letchworth State Park offers quite a few amenities for a New York State Park. From camping and cabins to lodging at Glen Iris Inn, you can stay and play in the same place! And on the subject of play, Letchworth also had an amazing Autism Nature Walk and corresponding play area for our neurodivergent friends. 

💡 Wanderwithkt.com Pro Tip: See the gorge from a different perspective… from below with a whitewater rafting tour on the Genesee River or above with a Letchworth Hot Air Balloon ride!

3. Robert H. Treman State Park

Lucifer & Enfield Falls

Robert H. Treman State Park is a 402-acre park located in Ithaca, New York. The park is home to a variety of natural features, including waterfalls, gorges, and forests. The park is also home to a number of recreational activities, such as hiking, swimming, camping, and fishing.

The Rim Trail and Gorge Trail Loop at Robert H. Treman State Park is a popular 4.5-mile hike that offers stunning views of the park’s waterfalls and gorges. The trail is considered moderately challenging due to its steep inclines and numerous stairs.

The loop begins at the Enfield Falls parking area and follows the Rim Trail along the edge of the gorge. This section of the trail offers panoramic views of the park, including Lucifer Falls, one of the park’s most impressive waterfalls. After a short distance, the trail descends into the gorge via a series of steep stairs. Here, hikers can explore the Gorge Trail, which winds its way along the base of the cliffs and provides close-up views of the waterfalls. The loop continues along the Gorge Trail until it reaches the lower falls, where visitors can swim in the refreshing waters during the summer months. From there, the trail ascends back to the Rim Trail and returns to the starting point.

The Rim Trail and Gorge Trail Loop is a rewarding hike for those who are looking for a challenging but scenic adventure. The views are spectacular, and the trail is well-maintained and easy to follow. However, hikers should be prepared for a steep climb and a lot of stairs. Overall, the Rim Trail and Gorge Trail Loop is a must-do hike for anyone visiting Robert H. Treman State Park. It offers a unique opportunity to experience a great hike surrounding one of the best waterfalls in New York State Parks. 

💡 Wanderwithkt.com Pro Tip: See these waterfalls with a little less effort. Park at the main area and walk up to Enfield Falls and the swimming hole. Then park up top on Park Road and to the shorter, easier Lucifer Falls via Gorge Trail to gain great perspective of Lucifer Falls!

4. Niagara Falls State Park

Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls

Some of the most popular waterfalls in New York State Park’s are found on the border of the USA and Canada! Niagara Falls State Park is home to three major waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. These epic waterfalls are formed by the Niagara River, which flows over a series of cliffs before plunging into the Niagara Gorge.

The American Side of Niagara Falls has a lot of natural beauty. There two main hikes you can include in tour experience. The Goat Island Scenic Walk starts and ends on Goat Island. This small, uninhabited island in the Niagara River that offers stunning views of the falls. The trail winds its way along the edge of the island and provides panoramic views of both Horseshoe Falls and American Falls. The trail is about 1.5 miles long and is relatively flat, making it a great option for families and people of all ages.

This 2.4-mile trail offers a variety of views of the falls, including Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. The trail begins at Terrapin Point, a scenic overlook that offers panoramic views of the falls. From there, the trail winds its way along the Goat Island Causeway, which leads to Bridal Veil Falls, the smallest of the three Niagara Falls cascades. The trail continues past Bridal Veil Falls and back to Terrapin Point, where hikers can enjoy a final view of the falls before returning to the mainland.

Overall, hiking in Niagara Falls State Park is a great way to experience the beauty and power of the falls. With a variety of trails to choose from, there is something for everyone, regardless of their fitness level or interests.

💡 Wanderwithkt.com Pro Tip: Take a trip to the Canadian side too! It is a completely different experience (much more built up and touristy) and totally worth it to compare the two.

5. Taughannock Falls State Park

Taughannock Falls

Taughannock Falls State Park is a 750-acre park in Tompkins County, New York, famous for its breathtaking Taughannock Falls. At 215 feet, Taughannock Falls is the tallest single-drop waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, cascading over a picturesque gorge.

The Gorge Trail is a 2.2-mile-long, out-and-back trail that winds through a narrow gorge, past towering cliffs, and alongside cascading creekside waterfalls. It is the most popular trail in the park, and for good reason: for a fairly easy trail, it offers stunning scenery and a unique hiking experience

Looking for something a little different? The North Rim and South Rim Trail is a 3-miles long that follows the edge of the gorge, providing panoramic views of Taughannock Falls and the surrounding countryside. It’s a great option for hikers looking to avoid crowds and experience the beauty of the park without venturing into the gorge.

Taughannock Falls State Park offers a variety of hiking trails for all levels of hikers. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, you’re sure to find the perfect trail in Taughannock Falls State Park.

💡 Wanderwithkt.com Pro Tip: Hike the Rim trail loop to see Taughannock’s hidden falls, located under the bridge you’ll hike across next to route 143.

6. Chittenango Falls State Park

Chittenango Falls

Chittenango Falls State Park is a 193-acre park in Madison County, New York, famous for its 167-foot waterfall that cascades over 400-million-year-old bedrock. The park offers a hiking loop that provides multiple views of the falls as well as a park and picnic area. 

Head to Chittenango Falls State Park to experience a stunning cascading waterfall. This trail is only accessible from late spring through mid to late fall. It closes in winter because although it is fairly short and easy, it leads you down multiple sets of stone stairs until you reach the footbridge over the creek where the main waterfall view is. 

You can enjoy views throughout this hike! Watch its power from above as you begin your hike, stop at a landing halfway to enjoy the midsection of the cascade up close and personal, and take in the full falls view from the bridge. As you climb back up and out of the gorge, there are views to be had. Don’t forget to take a look out at Chittenango Valley. 

This spectacular hike to Chittenango Falls in Chittenango Falls State Park is filled with lovely viewpoints throughout the trail. Sections of the track can be quite slippery, especially after consistent rainfall, so make sure you wear shoes with good grip. 

💡 Wanderwithkt.com Pro Tip: Visit the nearby Green Lakes State Park for incredible-colored glacial lakes unlike any others in upstate New York.

7. Buttermilk Falls State Park

Buttermilk Falls

Buttermilk Falls State Park is an 811-acre park in Ithaca, New York that features a number of hiking paths, a lake, a waterfall, and campgrounds. This park does have a lot to offer but we’re going to focus on the stunning Gorge & Rim Trail. 

The original 164 acres of Buttermilk Falls State Park were gifted to New York State by Robert and Laura Treman in 1924. The park has since grown to its current size of 811 acres through various state acquisitions. The park is named for the frothy appearance of its churning waters, which resemble buttermilk.

The Rim & Gorge Trail is a popular 1.6-mile loop that offers stunning views of the park’s waterfalls and gorges. The trail is considered moderately challenging due to its steep inclines and numerous stairs. The loop begins at the swimming hole/main parking area and follows the Rim Trail up and along the edge of the gorge through a forested area. Descend on the gorge trail for seemingly endless little waterfalls and amazing pools throughout the gorge.

Besides the Rim & Gorge Trail, Buttermilk Falls State Park offers several other hiking trails. The Lake Treman Loop Trail is a 1.5-mile loop that circles Lake Treman, a small lake located in the upper part of the park. The Owl Creek Trail is a 2.5-mile out-and-back trail that follows Owl Creek through a wooded area. Other shorter trails offer opportunities to explore different parts of the park and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

💡 Wanderwithkt.com Pro Tip: Buttermilk Falls & Robert Treman State Park’s are right down the road from one another! Visit them both to experience several stunning waterfalls in one trip.

8. Minnewaska State Park

Awosting Falls

Minnewaska State Park Preserve was established in 1974 and encompasses over 23,000 acres of land. The park was once a private estate owned by the Smiley Brothers, who developed the area as a resort destination in the late 19th century. In 1971, the state of New York purchased the property, and in 1974, the park was officially opened to the public.

The 65-foot Awosting Falls can be accessed via a short, easy trail. This packed gravel walkway leads to the base of the falls with less than a 5% grade, which makes it a popular destination for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Access the falls by following the signs for the park off Route 44/55; the easiest way to reach them is to drive into the main park entrance, turn right after the admission booth, and drive to the parking area near the falls. The walk to the falls is short and relatively easy. You can view them from both the top and the base. 

Minnewaska State Park Preserve offers a variety of other trails for hikers of all levels. The carriage roads are wide and flat, making them perfect for leisurely walks or bike rides. The more challenging trails wind through the woods and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Some of the most popular trails include the Gertrude’s Nose & Milbrook Mountain Trail, the Lake Minnewaska Loop Trail, and the Verkeerderkill Falls Trail.

💡 Wanderwithkt.com Pro Tip: On busy weekends, like during fall foliage, arrive at the gate about 20 minutes prior to opening. A line will start and you’ll want to be one of the first people in!

9. Pixley Falls State Park

Pixley Falls

Pixley Falls is a 50-foot waterfall located in Pixley Falls State Park in Oneida County, New York. The park offers hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and scenic views of the surrounding area.

Pixley Falls State Park was established in 1924 by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The park was originally created to preserve the natural beauty of Pixley Falls, a 50-foot waterfall that cascades over a gorge. The park has since grown to encompass 375 acres of land, including forests, meadows, and a lake.

Pixley Falls is the centerpiece of Pixley Falls State Park. The waterfall is a 50-foot cascade that plunges over a gorge into a small pond. The falls are best viewed from the rocks surrounding the landing pool, located a short but relatively steep distance from the parking lot.

In addition to the trail to Pixley Falls, the park offers a number of other hiking trails, including the Pixley Falls Green Trail which can be tough to follow and the Black River Canal Trail. The Black River Canal Trail follows the route of the Black River Canal, which was once an important transportation route in the region. It’s used for hiking and cross country skiing; you can access the trail near its southern terminus at Pixley Falls State Park.

💡 Wanderwithkt.com Pro Tip: The nature trail is beautiful so don’t count it out! It travels alongside Lansing Kill and a smaller creek that feeds into Lansing Kill. There are a handful of small waterfalls a beautiful pools to check out along the trail.

10. Mine Kill State Park

Mine Kill Falls

Mine Kill Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in Blenheim, NY in Mine Kill State Park. This is one of the waterfalls in new york state parks that people don’t really know about!

Mine Kill State Park was established in 1973 and encompasses 500 acres of land in Schoharie County, New York. The park is named after Mine Kill Falls, a scenic 80-foot waterfall that cascades through a narrow gorge within the park. The land for the park was acquired by the state from the New York Power Authority.

The main viewpoint of the park, the waterfall, is formed by Mine Kill Creek, which flows through a narrow gorge before plunging over a series of cliffs. Visitors can view the falls from several different vantage points, including a scenic overlook near the top of the falls and a trail that leads to the base of the falls. The trail is easy and not terribly steep, but the entire return is uphill. 

In addition to the trails leading to Mine Kill Falls, the park offers a variety of other recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. The park is also home to a disc golf course and a playground. Visitors can also enjoy swimming in the park’s Olympic-sized pool during the summer months.

💡 Wanderwithkt.com Pro Tip: Mine Kill is in a more remote part of the foothills of the Catskills and it is full of beauty. While you’re around, check out a few other hikers/trails nearby, including Bald Mountain or Mount Utsayantha for some mountainesque views.

Wait, What About Non-State Park Waterfalls?

While the core of this guide highlights the Top 10 Waterfalls managed by the New York State Parks system, the state is home to thousands of other magnificent cascades. These bonus waterfalls are located on land managed by the DEC (Department of Environmental Conservation) or are privately owned—and they are simply too spectacular to leave out!

If you’ve completed the Top 10 list above, here are five more spectacular New York waterfalls to add to your list!

11. High Falls Gorge (Adirondack State Park)

High Falls is a series of four cascading waterfalls located in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. It’s a popular tourist destination, offering stunning views of the falls from various vantage points along a series of bridges and walkways.

Although there are many amazing waterfalls in New York State Parks and the Adirondacks specifically, High Falls Gorge is a popular one. The hike is a moderate 1-mile loop trail that takes visitors through a series of bridges and hanging walkways, offering breathtaking views of four cascading waterfalls. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for most ages and fitness levels, although some sections may be challenging for those with mobility limitations or fear of heights.

Important Note: High Falls Gorge is a privately owned nature park that charges an admission fee for entry. In addition to the hiking trail, the park offers a variety of other attractions, including a glass-floor observation deck, a gift shop, and a café.

💡 Wanderwithkt.com Pro Tip: Visit in the winter where you can rent snowshoes from the gift shop! Seeing the frozen cascades and icicles in this deep gorge is a truly unique, less-crowded experience.

12. Kaaterskill Falls (DEC Forest Preserve)

Kaaterskill Falls is arguably the most famous waterfall in the Catskill Mountains, plummeting 260 feet in two dramatic tiers. It was a favorite spot of the 19th-century Hudson River School painters, and its popularity endures today.

The trail has been significantly upgraded in recent years with stone staircases and viewing platforms to enhance safety and access. You can view he falls from several different locations, but the top-down viewing platform is honestly my favorite and the easiest to access. The rocks surrounding the waterfall are slippery. Proper footwear and extreme caution are required if you plan to walk on them. Additionally, you’re dropping almost 500 feet. to reach the bottom. Be prepared to take all of those stairs back up!

Important Note: This waterfall is located on New York State Forest Preserve land, managed by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), not the State Parks system. It requires careful hiking due to the terrain and should not be attempted in poor weather or without appropriate gear.

💡 Wanderwithkt.com Pro Tip: To get the best full view, hike to the new Middle Viewing Platform. For a different perspective, the easier, shorter walk to the top viewing platform from the upper parking lot offers incredible gorge views (though you can’t see the full falls from the top). Arrive very early on weekends, as parking fills up immediately.

13. Ithaca Falls (City Park)

Ithaca Falls is the largest and most powerful waterfall that is completely within the city limits of Ithaca, making it an incredibly accessible, urban gem. This massive 150-foot cascade is the final plunge of Fall Creek before it empties into Cayuga Lake. The area around the falls has historical significance, with visible ruins of old mills built by Ezra Cornell in the 1800s.

Access to the viewing platform (sidewalk) and short trail to the base can be found just across the street from the elementary school.

Important Note: The best, most accessible view of the falls is right from the Lake Street bridge. A short, but sometimes uneven, dirt trail leads closer to the base. Swimming is strictly prohibited due to strong currents and historical contamination issues (now cleaned up, but the danger remains).

💡 Wanderwithkt.com Pro Tip: Visit this fall at night! The City of Ithaca often illuminates the falls, creating a dramatic and beautiful scene that is entirely different from a daytime visit.

14. Tinker Falls (DEC Unique Area)

Tinker Falls is located within the Labrador Hollow Unique Area, managed by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). It is famous for being a hanging waterfall, meaning the water falls over an undercut cliff, often allowing visitors to walk behind the cascade during periods of lower flow. The trail is beautifully maintained.

There are a lot of trails in this area that lead to incredible pond and rolling hill views. Add to your hike by hopping on one of those trails!

Important Note: The first quarter-mile to the base of the falls is a wheelchair-friendly, accessible path with a gentle grade. Beyond the accessible viewpoint, the trail climbs steep stone steps to get behind the falls and up to the top, which is much more strenuous.

💡 Wanderwithkt.com Pro Tip: Combine this hike with a visit to the Labrador Hollow Boardwalk nearby! It’s another excellent, universally accessible feature of the Unique Area that provides beautiful views of Labrador Pond.

15. Ludlowville Falls (Town Park)

This hidden gem is located in a small, well-maintained town park overlooking Salmon Creek. Ludlowville Falls is a gorgeous 35-foot cascade that pours over a hard limestone cap, creating an impressive overhang and plunge pool. This spot is very popular with locals for fishing and picnics.

Don’t get lost! Park in a small lot featuring a pavilion and some old basketball hoops. Walk toward the sound of the water and you’ll be met with incredible waterfall views!

Important Note: Access to the main viewpoint is easy and suitable for all visitors. A short, steep fisherman’s trail leads down to the creek bed for an up-close view and a peek at the cavern behind the water—exercise extreme caution if taking this path, as it can be slippery.

💡 Wanderwithkt.com Pro Tip: This waterfall is very flow-dependent. Visit it in the spring or after heavy rain for the most dramatic multi-plume display. During the summer, it can be a tranquil, gentle cascade.

FAQs About Visiting Waterfalls in New York State Parks

Let’s get your questions about visiting waterfalls in New York State Park’s answered. This information is for general guidance only and may not be entirely accurate or up-to-date. It’s important that you always check the official New York State Parks website for the most current information and regulations. Stay informed! 

1. What are the NYS Park Entry Fees?

• Most New York State Parks require a vehicle use fee to enter.
• The standard fee is $8 per vehicle.
• Some parks may have varying fees or seasonal rates.

2. What is the Empire Pass Card?

• The Empire Pass is an annual pass that provides unlimited vehicle entry to most New York State Parks.
• It’s a cost-effective option for frequent park visitors, especially those looking to visit the best waterfalls in New York State Parks.

3. Is Hunting Allowed in NYS Parks?

• Hunting is generally prohibited in most developed areas of NYS Parks.
• However, some parks may have designated hunting areas during specific seasons.
• Always check park regulations before hunting.

4. What is the best time of year to visit waterfalls in NYS Parks?

• Spring: Offers the highest water flow due to snowmelt.
• Summer: Provides opportunities for swimming (where permitted) and warm weather hiking.
• Fall: Showcases stunning fall foliage.
• Winter: ​Less crowds and frozen falls! But some trails are closed in winter.

5. What should I wear when hiking to waterfalls?

• Sturdy hiking shoes or boots are essential.
• Wear layers of clothing as weather can change quickly.
• Pack a raincoat or waterproof jacket.

6. What should I bring on a hike to a waterfall?

• Plenty of water and snacks.
• A first-aid kit.
• Insect repellent.
• Sunscreen.
• A map and compass (or download a trail map app).
• A back or lumbar pack to hold it all.

7. Are dogs allowed on trails?

• Leashed dogs are generally permitted on most trails.
• However, some trails may have restrictions, especially during certain times of the year.
• Play it safe and always check park regulations.

8. How do I stay safe while hiking to a waterfall?

• Stay on marked trails.
• Be aware of your surroundings and watch for hazards like slippery rocks and falling debris.
• Never climb on rocks near the falls.
• Let someone know your hiking plans and when they should expect to hear from you.

9. What should I do with my trash?

• Pack out all your trash and dispose of it properly.
• Leave no trace and respect the natural environment.

10. Where can I find more information about visiting waterfalls in NYS Parks?

• Visit the official website of the New York State Parks website (parks.ny.gov) for park-specific information, trail maps, and safety guidelines.
• Stop by the park office and visitor center for more information about educational programs, park regulations, and any additional information you may need.

Conclusion

New York is truly full of so many incredible natural views. Visiting the Top 10 State Park Waterfalls—plus the five bonus cascades on our list—is just a glimpse into the incredible natural beauty that New York State has to offer.

Whether you chase the roaring power of Niagara, the towering height of Kaaterskill, or the gentle beauty of a hidden gorge, these 15 waterfalls offer an unforgettable adventure. If you love hiking, check out our list of New York’s best hikes and start planning!