There are many beautiful waterfalls in New York State. One of the most popular waterfalls is Niagara Falls, located in Western New York near the border with Canada. However, if you are not near Niagara Falls, there are several other waterfalls that you can visit.
For example, if you are in the Finger Lakes region of New York, you might want to visit Taughannock Falls State Park. This park features a stunning 215-foot waterfall that is surrounded by scenic hiking trails.
If you are in the Hudson Valley region, you might want to check out Kaaterskill Falls, which is one of the tallest waterfalls in New York State. This waterfall is located in the Catskill Mountains and is surrounded by beautiful scenery.
If you are looking for more waterfalls near your location, you might also want to check out Buttermilk Falls State Park in Ithaca, New York, or Watkins Glen State Park in Watkins Glen, New York. Both of these parks feature beautiful waterfalls and scenic hiking trails.
1. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is a famous set of waterfalls located on the Niagara River, which serves as the international border between the United States and Canada. The falls are located about 17 miles (27 kilometers) north-northwest of Buffalo, New York, and about 75 miles (120 kilometers) southeast of Toronto, Ontario.
There are actually three separate waterfalls that make up Niagara Falls: the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. The Horseshoe Falls are the largest and most recognizable of the three, and are located on the Canadian side of the falls. The American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are located on the American side.
Niagara Falls is a popular tourist destination and attracts millions of visitors each year. Visitors can take boat tours, visit observation decks, or view the falls from various vantage points. The area surrounding Niagara Falls also offers a variety of attractions, including casinos, museums, and amusement parks.
2. Middle Falls, Letchworth State Park
Middle Falls is one of three main waterfalls in Letchworth State Park, located in western New York State in the United States. Letchworth State Park spans over 14,000 acres (5,665 hectares) along the Genesee River and is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East” due to its stunning natural beauty and deep gorges.
Middle Falls is located in the southern part of the park and is the largest of the three waterfalls, with a drop of approximately 107 feet (33 meters). The waterfall cascades over a horseshoe-shaped crest, creating a stunning and powerful display of natural beauty. Visitors can view Middle Falls from a variety of vantage points, including a pedestrian bridge that spans the Genesee River and offers a panoramic view of the waterfall and surrounding gorge.
In addition to Middle Falls, Letchworth State Park offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and winter sports such as snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. The park also features several other waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and historic sites, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
3. Plattekill Falls
Plattekill Falls is a waterfall located in the Catskill Mountains in New York State, United States. It is located near the town of Roxbury and can be reached via a short hike through the woods. The waterfall has a total height of approximately 70 feet (21 meters) and consists of a series of cascades that flow down into a pool at the base of the falls.
Plattekill Falls is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, who often combine a visit to the falls with a hike along the nearby trails in the Catskill Mountains. The hike to Plattekill Falls is relatively short but can be steep in places and involves some scrambling over rocks, so proper footwear and caution are recommended.
In addition to Plattekill Falls, the Catskill Mountains are home to numerous other waterfalls and outdoor attractions, including hiking trails, fishing streams, and ski resorts. The area is also known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Buttermilk Falls
Buttermilk Falls is a waterfall located in Buttermilk Falls State Park, near the city of Ithaca in upstate New York, United States. The waterfall is a part of Buttermilk Creek and has a total height of approximately 165 feet (50 meters), with the tallest single drop being about 50 feet (15 meters).
Buttermilk Falls State Park covers over 600 acres (240 hectares) and is known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. In addition to the waterfall, the park features numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and campsites. Visitors can also swim in the park’s natural pool, which is fed by the cascading waters of Buttermilk Falls.
The hike to Buttermilk Falls is relatively short and easy, with a well-maintained trail that follows the creek and provides several vantage points for viewing the waterfall. In the summer months, the area around the falls can be crowded, as the park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
5. Taughannock Falls
Taughannock Falls is a waterfall located in Taughannock Falls State Park, near the town of Trumansburg in upstate New York, United States. The waterfall has a total height of 215 feet (65.5 meters), making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern United States. The waterfall is formed by Taughannock Creek, which flows through a narrow gorge before plunging over the edge of the falls.
Taughannock Falls State Park covers over 750 acres (303 hectares) and offers a range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, picnicking, and camping. The park also features several overlooks and vantage points that provide stunning views of the waterfall and surrounding gorge.
Visitors can access the base of Taughannock Falls via a short trail that leads to a viewing platform. More adventurous hikers can also follow a trail that leads to the top of the falls, providing a unique perspective of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape.
6. Eternal Flames Falls
Eternal Flames Falls is a unique waterfall located in Chestnut Ridge Park, near the city of Buffalo in western New York State, United States. The waterfall is unique in that it features a small flame that burns continuously behind the waterfall’s cascade, creating a stunning and otherworldly sight.
The flame is caused by a natural gas leak that seeps through the rocks and is ignited by a small spark, which is why the flame is known as an “eternal flame.” The waterfall itself is relatively small, with a total height of approximately 30 feet (9 meters), but the flame behind the cascade adds a surreal and captivating element to the waterfall.
Visitors can access the waterfall via a moderate hiking trail that leads through the woods and down a steep hill to the base of the falls. The trail is well-marked and takes approximately 20-30 minutes to complete. Once at the falls, visitors can view the flame from a small alcove behind the cascade, which is accessible via a narrow path.
Chestnut Ridge Park is a popular destination for hiking, picnicking, and other outdoor activities, and Eternal Flames Falls is one of its most unique and memorable attractions. However, visitors should exercise caution when visiting the falls and be aware of the potential dangers associated with the natural gas flame.
7. Kaaterskill Falls
Kaaterskill Falls is a two-tiered waterfall located in the Catskill Mountains in New York State, United States. With a total height of 260 feet (79 meters), it is one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern United States. The waterfall is located near the town of Hunter and can be accessed via a hiking trail that leads from a nearby parking area.
The lower falls, which are easily accessible from the parking area, have a drop of approximately 85 feet (26 meters). The upper falls, which can be reached via a moderate hike, have a drop of approximately 175 feet (53 meters). The waterfall is surrounded by lush forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Kaaterskill Falls is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, but visitors should exercise caution when visiting the falls, as the trail can be steep and slippery in places. In addition, visitors should be aware that swimming is not permitted at the falls, as the water can be dangerous and unpredictable.
The Catskill Mountains are known for their natural beauty and offer a range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and skiing. In addition to Kaaterskill Falls, the area is home to numerous other waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and outdoor attractions, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
8. Rainbow Falls, Watkins Glen State Park
Rainbow Falls is a stunning waterfall located in Watkins Glen State Park in upstate New York, United States. The waterfall is known for its vibrant rainbow colors that are visible in the mist that rises from the falls on sunny days. Rainbow Falls is part of a series of waterfalls and cascades located along the Glen Creek within the park.
Watkins Glen State Park spans over 778 acres (314 hectares) and is known for its scenic beauty and natural attractions. The park features numerous hiking trails that wind through the gorge and offer breathtaking views of the waterfalls, rock formations, and lush forest.
Visitors can access Rainbow Falls via the Gorge Trail, which is a popular hiking trail that leads through the heart of the park and provides access to many of the park’s waterfalls and scenic overlooks. The Gorge Trail is well-maintained and features a series of bridges and stairs that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the falls.
In addition to Rainbow Falls, Watkins Glen State Park also features several other notable waterfalls, including Cavern Cascade and Central Cascade, as well as numerous picnic areas and campsites. The park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York.
9. Rainbow Falls, Ausable Chasm
Rainbow Falls is a beautiful waterfall located within the Ausable Chasm in upstate New York, United States. Ausable Chasm is a deep and narrow gorge carved by the Ausable River and is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks.”
Rainbow Falls is a picturesque waterfall that drops approximately 70 feet (21 meters) into a pool below, creating a spectacular display of mist and rainbows on sunny days. Visitors can view the falls from a bridge that spans the chasm or by taking a guided tour of the area.
In addition to Rainbow Falls, Ausable Chasm offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and rafting. Visitors can explore the chasm by foot, by bike, or by taking a scenic rafting trip down the Ausable River.
The Ausable Chasm is also home to several other waterfalls, including the Lower Falls and the Upper Falls, as well as numerous natural rock formations and geological wonders. The area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a unique and awe-inspiring glimpse into the natural beauty of upstate New York.
10. Chittenango Falls
Chittenango Falls is a waterfall located in Chittenango Falls State Park in central New York State, United States. The waterfall drops approximately 167 feet (51 meters) over rocky cliffs and creates a stunning display of mist and spray.
Chittenango Falls State Park covers over 193 acres (78 hectares) and is known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. In addition to the waterfall, the park features several hiking trails, picnic areas, and campsites. Visitors can also fish in the stream that feeds the waterfall, which is stocked with rainbow and brown trout.
The hiking trail to the falls is relatively easy and provides several vantage points for viewing the waterfall and surrounding gorge. There is also a viewing platform at the base of the falls that offers a close-up view of the waterfall and its cascades.
Chittenango Falls is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in central New York State. The park is also known for its fall foliage, which attracts visitors from all over the region to view the stunning display of autumn colors.
11. Mine Kill Falls
Mine Kill Falls is a waterfall located in Mine Kill State Park in upstate New York, United States. The waterfall is part of the Mine Kill Creek and drops approximately 80 feet (24 meters) over a series of rocky ledges, creating a stunning and dramatic display of natural beauty.
Mine Kill State Park covers over 500 acres (202 hectares) and offers a range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. In addition to the waterfall, the park features several hiking trails, picnic areas, and campsites.
Visitors can access Mine Kill Falls via a short and easy hiking trail that leads from the park’s main parking area to a viewing platform at the base of the falls. The platform provides an up-close view of the waterfall and surrounding gorge.
Mine Kill Falls is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in upstate New York. The park is also known for its scenic beauty and wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of bird species.
12. Fawn’s Leap
Fawn’s Leap is a scenic waterfall and swimming hole located in the Catskill Mountains of New York State, United States. The waterfall is named after a legendary fawn that is said to have leaped from the waterfall’s ledge to escape from a pack of hunting dogs.
Fawn’s Leap is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, who often combine a visit to the falls with a hike along the nearby trails in the Catskill Mountains. The waterfall is relatively small, with a total height of approximately 20 feet (6 meters), but its picturesque setting and natural swimming hole make it a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing in the summer months.
The hike to Fawn’s Leap is relatively short but can be steep and rocky in places, so proper footwear and caution are recommended. Once at the falls, visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the waterfall and surrounding forest, as well as take a dip in the cool and refreshing water of the swimming hole.
In addition to Fawn’s Leap, the Catskill Mountains are home to numerous other waterfalls, hiking trails, and outdoor attractions, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in the northeastern United States.
13. Awosting Falls
Awosting Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Minnewaska State Park Preserve in upstate New York, United States. The waterfall drops approximately 60 feet (18 meters) over a rocky cliff, creating a stunning display of cascading water and mist.
Minnewaska State Park Preserve covers over 22,000 acres (8,900 hectares) and is known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. In addition to Awosting Falls, the park features several hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and rock climbing areas. Visitors can also swim, fish, and boat in the park’s two lakes, Lake Minnewaska and Lake Awosting.
The hiking trail to Awosting Falls is moderate in difficulty and provides several vantage points for viewing the waterfall and surrounding landscape. Visitors can access the base of the falls via a short and easy trail that leads from the main parking area.
Awosting Falls is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts in upstate New York, offering a unique and awe-inspiring glimpse into the natural beauty of the region. The park is also known for its fall foliage, which attracts visitors from all over the region to view the stunning display of autumn colors.
14. Eagle’s Cliff Falls (Montour Falls)
Eagle’s Cliff Falls is a small but beautiful waterfall located in Montour Falls, New York, United States. The waterfall is located on Shequaga Creek, which flows through the village of Montour Falls before joining with Cayuta Creek.
Eagle’s Cliff Falls is approximately 30 feet (9 meters) high and drops into a small pool below. The waterfall is easily accessible from a nearby parking area and can be viewed from a pedestrian bridge that spans the creek.
Montour Falls is located in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York and is known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. In addition to Eagle’s Cliff Falls, the area is home to several other waterfalls and outdoor attractions, including Watkins Glen State Park and Taughannock Falls State Park. The region is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a unique and awe-inspiring glimpse into the natural beauty of upstate New York.
15. Diamond Notch Falls
Diamond Notch Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Catskill Mountains of New York State, United States. The waterfall is part of the Diamond Notch Trail, a popular hiking trail that winds through the forest and provides access to several scenic waterfalls and overlooks.
Diamond Notch Falls drops approximately 80 feet (24 meters) over a rocky ledge and into a small pool below, creating a picturesque and serene setting in the heart of the forest. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and provides a peaceful and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The hike to Diamond Notch Falls is moderate in difficulty and takes approximately 3-4 hours round trip. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the scenic beauty of the forest, as well as several other waterfalls and scenic overlooks.
Diamond Notch Falls is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts in the Catskill Mountains, offering a unique and memorable experience in the heart of nature. The area is also known for its fall foliage, which attracts visitors from all over the region to view the stunning display of autumn colors.
16. Lower Falls
Lower Falls is a popular waterfall located in the Genesee River Gorge in Letchworth State Park in western New York State, United States. The waterfall drops approximately 70 feet (21 meters) into a pool below, creating a spectacular display of mist and spray.
Letchworth State Park covers over 14,000 acres (5,700 hectares) and is known for its scenic beauty and natural attractions. In addition to Lower Falls, the park features several other notable waterfalls, including Middle Falls and Upper Falls, as well as numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and campsites.
Visitors can access Lower Falls via a short and easy hiking trail that leads from a nearby parking area to a viewing platform at the base of the falls. The platform provides an up-close view of the waterfall and surrounding gorge.
Letchworth State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in western New York State. The park is also known for its fall foliage, which attracts visitors from all over the region to view the stunning display of autumn colors.
17. High Falls in Rochester
High Falls is a spectacular waterfall located in the city of Rochester, New York, United States. The waterfall is located on the Genesee River and drops approximately 96 feet (29 meters) over a rocky ledge, creating a stunning and dramatic display of cascading water and mist.
High Falls is part of the High Falls Historic District, which was once the site of numerous flour mills and other industrial buildings. Today, the area has been redeveloped and is home to several museums, galleries, and restaurants.
Visitors can access High Falls via several pedestrian bridges and viewing platforms that provide breathtaking views of the waterfall and surrounding area. The area around High Falls is also home to several other notable attractions, including the Genesee Riverway Trail, which winds along the river and offers stunning views of the city skyline.
Rochester is known for its rich history and culture, as well as its natural beauty and outdoor attractions. In addition to High Falls, the city is home to numerous parks, museums, and cultural institutions, making it a popular destination for visitors to western New York State.
18. Ithaca Falls
Ithaca Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the city of Ithaca, in upstate New York, United States. The waterfall is located on Fall Creek, a tributary of Cayuga Lake, and drops approximately 150 feet (46 meters) over a rocky ledge.
Ithaca Falls is easily accessible from a nearby parking area and can be viewed from several vantage points, including a pedestrian bridge that spans the creek. The waterfall is surrounded by lush forest and provides a picturesque and serene setting in the heart of the city.
In addition to Ithaca Falls, the area around Ithaca is home to several other notable waterfalls and natural attractions, including Buttermilk Falls State Park, Taughannock Falls State Park, and Watkins Glen State Park. The region is known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, and boating.
Ithaca is also home to several colleges and universities, including Cornell University and Ithaca College, which contribute to the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Visitors to Ithaca can explore the city’s museums, galleries, and performing arts venues, as well as its many restaurants, cafes, and shops.
19. Upper Falls, Letchworth State Park
Upper Falls is one of the three major waterfalls in Letchworth State Park, located in western New York State, United States. The waterfall is located on the Genesee River and drops approximately 70 feet (21 meters) over a rocky ledge, creating a stunning and dramatic display of cascading water and mist.
Letchworth State Park covers over 14,000 acres (5,700 hectares) and is known for its scenic beauty and natural attractions. In addition to Upper Falls, the park features several other notable waterfalls, including Middle Falls and Lower Falls, as well as numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and campsites.
Visitors can access Upper Falls via a series of staircases and walking paths that lead down into the gorge. The waterfall can be viewed from several vantage points, including a pedestrian bridge that spans the river.
Letchworth State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in western New York State. The park is also known for its fall foliage, which attracts visitors from all over the region to view the stunning display of autumn colors.
20. Bash Bish Falls
Bash Bish Falls is located in Mt. Washington State Forest, Massachusetts. It is a beautiful waterfall that is popular for hiking and nature walks. If you enjoy visiting waterfalls, you may also want to check out Kaaterskill Falls which is located in New York and is only about an hour and a half drive away from Bash Bish Falls. Kaaterskill Falls is a two-tiered waterfall that is one of the tallest waterfalls in New York State.
21. OK Slip Falls
In the years before to 2014, getting to the OK Slip Falls was a significant challenge. In July of that year, the Adirondacks’ tallest waterfall became significantly more accessible thanks to the addition of a three-mile official trail.
The Hudson Gorge Waterfall, which drops 250 feet, is one of the most magnificent attractions in the Hudson Gorge Wilderness Area, and it is one of the greatest sites to visit in the area. You can select between two viewing places once you reach the falls, or you can visit them both if you have the time.
Recommendation: Arrive early in the morning if you want to get the best shots possible. During the afternoon, the shade can creep in and darken your photographs slightly. This is also the best time to visit if you want to escape the crowds.
22. Salmon River Falls
Salmon River Falls is located in Oswego County, and it is part of the 112-acre Salmon River Falls Unique Area. These 110-foot falls, which are nestled within a breathtaking ravine, are the most popular tourist attraction in the area.
It will only take a quarter-mile from the parking lot to reach the falls, which will be accessible via a wide trail. Those looking for a more challenging hike can take on The Gorge Trail, but be warned: it is steep and dangerous, and should only be attempted by experienced and physically fit hikers and climbers.
The Upper Falls Trail connects Dam Road and the north bank of the river for a mile on the north side of the river. This is also a really tough trek, so be prepared. The River Bed Trail takes hikers to the base of the falls, where they get a better perspective, according to some. It is short, steep, and requires a few flights of stairs.
Summertime is a time when the good times never end. Ice climbing is one of the most enjoyable winter activities available at Salmon River Falls. Before ascending, you must complete and submit a registration form, which should be dropped in the kiosk box before entering the gorge.
23. Carpenter Falls
Carpenter Falls, located in the Bahar Nature Preserve near Skaneateles, is one of New York’s most spectacular waterfalls and is considered to be one of the most beautiful in the state. Each of the waterfalls has a completely distinct appearance. Imagine yourself on the edge of a steep, half-moon cliff, looking down over the deep and potentially treacherous Bear Swamp Creek Ravine.
The primary trail within Bahar Nature Preserve leads not only to Carpenter Falls, but also to a few other waterfalls and the lakeshore of Skaneateles Lake, as well as to a few other waterfalls and the lakeshore of Skaneateles Lake. After taking a trip to see the waterfalls, you can rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard to explore the lake and its surroundings.
24. Verkeerderkills Falls
It is located in the Shawangunk Mountain Ridge, in the Sam’s Point Area of Minnewaska State Park. A number of waterfalls can be seen in this area. Particularly noteworthy is that Verkeerderkill Falls, at about 200 feet in height, is one of the state’s most impressive waterfalls. On either side of the river, there are intriguing rock cliffs to climb upon. Additionally, when the winter months arrive, icy ice caves appear, which are both unique and well worth the trip to experience. It is possible to view some of that ice even in the summertime, because of the cave’s peculiar characteristics.
25. Indian Brook Falls
A relaxing experience in Garrison is sitting on one of the many blouders that surround the spectacular forty-foot Indian Brook Waterfalls, which is one of the most quiet places in the Hudson Valley. The falls have a bit of an amphitheater vibe to them, with the Indian Brook Falls performing on stage and the visitors sitting in the first row of the audience.
The falls are a portion of the Indian Brook, which is on its way to the Hudson River and is a popular tourist attraction. A short half-mile walk from the parking area will take you to the falls. For more specific directions, see the link to the fantastic Hike the Hudson Valley trail guide, which is included below. It is not a pleasant paved route, but it is also not a particularly strenuous trek. It only entails crossing some rocky terrain.
Once you’ve arrived at the falls, you can take a stroll around the region depending on how daring you feel and what Mother Nature has in store for her visitors. In the early spring or after heavy rains, it is extremely difficult to get up to the falls. In the fall, the water flow slows to a trickle, yet it is still beautiful to see because of the magnificent colors that are all around! This is another destination that is completely different in each season, and it is a place that should be visited at least four times per year at the very least.
26. Vernooy Kill Falls
Vernooykill Falls, another must-see waterfall in upstate New York, is a delight to explore. To reach the falls, hikers must navigate a steep trail with a constant ascent for 3.5 miles. There is also a shorter path that runs for slightly more than 2 miles. When you arrive, you’ll see that there are no trails along the falls themselves, only a series of slick steps. It’s possible to trip and fall when exploring, so use caution.
