Looking for waterfalls in New York?? Here’s the list with all the travel information you need for planning a family tour.
Located in between New York City and the Canadian border, the state of New York features plenty of amazing waterfalls, including the world-famous Niagara Falls, waterfalls in Letchworth State Park, Taughannock Falls, Buttermilk Falls, and Rainbow Falls.
The state of New York is not all about skyscrapers. It is surrounded by shimmering lakes, lush forests, stunning rivers, and mountains. Therefore, these waterfalls got scenic backdrops too.
However, the best time to visit waterfalls in New York is the spring, as you can see the full water volumes with lush surroundings.
Let’s discover the complete list of amazing waterfalls in New York. Read and add them to your bucket list.
Waterfalls in New York
1. Waterfalls in New York: Niagara Falls, Buffalo
Sitting on the border between the United States and Canada, Niagara Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world.
It has three broad sections (around 2,600 feet wide) that are stunningly cascading down 167 feet into the Niagara Gorge. Therefore, it creates a huge mist spray for a vast area.
Being the largest waterfall in the United States, Niagara Falls’ flow rate is around 85,000 cubic feet per second.
Actually, this huge amount of water is coming from Lake Erie and passes on to Lake Ontario. Then, it enters the St. Lawrence River before ends up at the North Atlantic.
Niagara Falls’ best views are said to be from the Canadian side. However, if you book a Maid of the Mist Boat Tour in New York, you can get closer to this beauty and get wet from its magical mist.
Come and feel the mist.
Waterfalls in New York
2. Waterfalls in New York: Upper Falls, Letchworth State Park
Letchworth State Park is a scenic nature park located in Livingston County and Wyoming County in the state of New York. Spreading for 14,427-acres, the park stretches roughly 17 miles along the Genesee River.
And this park features several stunning waterfalls, including Upper Falls, Middle Falls, and Lower Falls.
Upper Falls is a small beautiful waterfall that cascades for 40 feet on the Genesee River. Surrounded by massive rock cliffs, lush forests, and an old railway bridge named the Portage High Bridge, Upper Falls has a scenic backdrop too.
Since this bridge is located over 230 feet above the waterfall, it is beneficial for photographers to capture amazing photos. Aside from that, there are several vantage points to view Upper Falls from different angles.
Don’t worry, Upper Falls in Letchworth State Park is easily accessible from the car park. So, come with your family.
Address: 1 Letchworth State Park, Castile, NY 14427, United States Phone: +1 585-493-3600
Waterfalls in New York
3. Waterfalls in New York: Middle Falls, Letchworth State Park
Middle Falls is undoubtedly the most highlighted thing in Letchworth State Park.
Cascading on the Genesee River, Middle Falls is 107 feet high. And it is a rectangular shape stunning waterfall surrounded by massive rock cliffs and lush forests just like the Upper Falls.
Since it offers breathtaking views and contains numerous hiking trails, Middle Falls attracts thousands of visitors annually.
As there are several vantage points, visitors can easily view the waterfall in different ways. And also, expect to feet a cool-mist spray at some points.
The Trail 1 or The Gorge Trail will easily lead you to this incredible beauty from the parking lot.
If you visit here during a summer evening, you can see the beautifully light-up Middle Falls. Try and get this unique experience too.
Address: 1 Letchworth State Park, Castile, NY 14427, United States Phone: +1 585-493-3600
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Waterfalls in New York
4. Lower Falls, Letchworth State Park
Here’s the last waterfall of three major waterfalls on the Genesee River in Letchworth State Park in Western New York.
Lower Falls is the shortest waterfalls. But it has a good width and a gorgeous backdrop with rock cliffs and lush forests.
Unlike the other two waterfalls, Lower Falls requires a little challenging hike to reach. That’s why many visitors miss this beauty. But, it features a well-marked trail, a seasonal restaurant, and scenic viewpoints.
There’s a trail that descends 127 steps that take you closer to the Lower Falls. So, do not miss this little beauty when you visit Letchworth State Park.
Address: 1 Letchworth State Park, Castile, NY 14427, United States Phone: +1 585-493-3600
Waterfalls in New York
5. Indian Brook Falls, Philipstown
Indian Brook Falls is a hidden beauty located in Philipstown, New York. Therefore, it mainly attracts residents of Philipstown.
But, Indian Brook Falls is an impressive waterfall to visit. Since it offers easy access from the parking area, anyone can quickly get there.
Although Indian Brook Falls does not feature a swimming hole, it is perfect for a romantic picnic. Surrounded by a calm lush forest, it stunningly flows down over a nice rock formation.
Therefore, if you are looking for a picturesque place for your pre-wedding photoshoot, Indian Brook Falls is undoubtedly perfect.
Waterfalls in New York
6. Buttermilk Falls State Park, Ithaca
Buttermilk Falls State Park is located southwest of Ithaca, New York, and spreads for 811-acre. The park features ten beautiful cascades but, the most impressive one is obviously the Buttermilk Falls.
Buttermilk Falls cascades for 165 feet on Buttermilk Creek. Since it is close to the park entrance, anyone can easily get there.
On the other hand, Buttermilk Falls contains a swimming hole at the bottom. So, you can have a cool dip with your family.
If you are into hiking, Buttermilk Falls State Park features many exciting trails. So, pack your things and visit here to grab an unforgettable experience.
Address: 106 E Buttermilk Falls Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States Phone: +1 607-273-5761
Waterfalls in New York
7. Waterfalls in New York: Rainbow Falls, Ausable Chasm
Rainbow Falls in Ausable Chasm in the Adirondacks is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in New York.
It stunningly cascades with several layers on the Ausable River. And it is regulated by a hydroelectric power company. Therefore, the views can be varied during different times of the year.
The best time to visit Rainbow Falls is obviously spring. And it produces cool mist spray too.
Once you get there, you can get the best views from the bridge above the gorge. And you can go down to get closer views of the waterfall too.
But, Rainbow Falls’ trail is quite slippery. So, surely wear suitable shoes.
Address: Chesterfield, NY 12911, United States
Waterfalls in New York
8. Rainbow Falls, Watkins Glen State Park
Located in the village of Watkins Glen, Watkins Glen State Park is a small county park. But it contains beautiful natural features like large cliffs, verdant forest with huge trees, a deep gorge, and a beautiful waterfall named Rainbow Falls.
Rainbow Falls in Watkins Glen State Park is one of the most unique and picturesque waterfalls in New York. It stunningly cascades over a rock surface to a blue pool below.
One of the unique features of Rainbow Falls is it offers a chance to walk behind the flowing falls and get wet.
And also, there’s a beautiful stone bridge near Rainbow Falls. When you cross the waterfall, you can easily get there.
Aside from the Rainbow Falls, Watkins Glen State Park features several other waterfalls such as Pluto Falls, Cavern Cascade, and Central Cascade. But, obviously, Rainbow Falls is the most impressive one.
Address: Gorge Trail, Watkins Glen, NY 14891, United States
Waterfalls in New York
9. Taughannock Falls State Park, Trumansburg
Taughannock Falls is the highest waterfall in the east of the United States.
It is located in a 400 ft high gorge within Taughannock Falls State Park and drops 215 feet into a pool below. That means 42 feet higher than Niagara Falls.
Since a lush forest surrounds Taughannock Falls, it creates a breathtaking beauty. Walk along the park’s Gorge and Rim trails to get the best views.
On the other hand, Taughannock Falls State Park is a 750 acres park filled with exciting hiking trails, campsites, fishing spots, swimming areas, and winter sporting areas.
However, Taughannock Falls is the most highlighted thing in the park.
Address: 1740 Taughannock Blvd, Trumansburg, NY 14886, United States Phone: +1 607-387-6739
Waterfalls in New York
10. New Croton Dam, Westchester County
New Croton Dam forms the New Croton Reservoir to fulfill the water need of New York City. As a result, this project added a beautiful waterfall to the state.
The dam is 300 ft high, and the reservoir holds 34 billion gallons of water. Although the New Croton Dam area is not suitable for swimming, it is a popular picnic area for families. There’s a scenic picnic area near the waterfall.
Surely visit the bridge to get the best views of the waterfall.
And also, Croton Gorge Park features exciting hiking trails, fishing spots, and winter sports. So, whether you visit during spring or winter, it offers plenty of outdoor activities to do.
Waterfalls in New York
11. Waterfalls in New York: Eternal Flame Falls, Orchard Park
Eternal Flame Falls is a small but unique waterfall located in the Shale Creek Preserve (Chestnut Ridge Park), New York.
This waterfall is 30 ft high and cascades beautifully on Shale Creek over a unique rock. And also, there’s a small cave (6 inches tall) in this rock too. Surprisingly this cave produces a natural gas that creates a small flame constantly.
Even scientists are confused with this gas release as this rock is not enough to produce natural gas. That’s why it calls the Eternal Flame Falls.
Although there’s a challenging 1.5-mile-trail, it is totally worth it trying. Surely wear comfortable shoes.
Address: Eternal Flame Hiking Trail, Orchard Park, NY 14127, United States Phone: +1 716-858-8355
Waterfalls in New York
12. Chittenango Falls State Park, Madison County
Chittenango Falls is a magnificent waterfall located in the Chittenango Falls State Park, Madison County. It is a glacial cascade that flows for 167 ft over a 400 million-year-old bedrock.
Cascading via numerous layers, Chittenango Falls again joins a cool creek at the bottom. The footbridge near the waterfall will offer good views with a romantic backdrop.
The trail to Chittenango Falls is a little bit challenging, so beware and wear hiking shoes.
Besides the waterfall, Chittenango Falls State Park also features plenty of hiking trails, fishing spots, picnic areas, and a calm environment. Therefore, it attracts thousands of visitors annually.
Plan your tour with your family.
Address: 2300 Rathbun Rd, Cazenovia, NY 13035, United States Phone: +1 315-492-1756
Waterfalls in New York
13. Kaaterskill Falls, Catskill Mountains
Located in the Catskill Mountains, Kaaterskill Falls is one of the highest (260 feet tall) waterfalls in New York. And definitely, it is the highlight of the Catskill Mountains.
Surrounded by a relaxing and lush surrounding, Kaaterskill Falls is a perfect destination to release your work stress. Especially, it offers a colorful backdrop with a good volume of water during autumn and spring.
After hiking the 1.4 miles hike through the woods, you can see this picturesque, two-tiered waterfall, Kaaterskill Falls, and its cool pool below.
Adventure hikers hike even to the top of the waterfall to get spectacular views. But, it can be very dangerous as the rocks are too slippery.
And also, this heavenly place is considered the final resting place of the Creator of Mohicans. So, they treat the Kaaterskill Falls area as a sacred place.
Anyone in the world would happily choose this place as their final resting place.
Address: Catskill Mountains, Hunter, New York, United States
Waterfalls in New York
14. High Falls, Rochester
High Falls is a wide and 100 ft high waterfall that cascades on the Genesee River in Rochester, New York.
Located in Rochester’s historic district next to the downtown core, you can easily observe the beauty of High Falls by visiting the Pont de Rennes Bridge.
And also, the High Falls Terrace Platform located on the Genesee River east offers spectacular views of High Falls.
Are you still going to miss this beauty??
Address: 4 Commercial St, Rochester, NY 14614, United States Phone: +1 585-442-2030
Waterfalls in New York
15. Waterfalls in New York: Ithaca Falls, Ithaca
Ithica is like heaven for waterfall lovers.
Ithica Falls is a 150 ft high waterfall that cascades on Falls Creek into a cool pool below. Therefore, people visit it during the hot summer days to get a cool dip. Also, you can easily and safely go close to the waterfall.
Located in the famous Finger Lakes region, Ithica Falls spans nearly 175 feet. Just imagine a high and wide waterfall surrounded by a calm, lush environment. That is precisely Ithica Falls.
Since it offers easy access, you can easily get there. So, surely come with your family.
Waterfalls in New York
16. Waterfalls in New York: Lucifer Falls, Robert H Treman State Park, Ithaca
Robert H. Treman State Park is a famous 110-acre nature park located in the Finger Lakes region, Ithaca, New York. It features around 12 beautiful waterfalls, including Lucifer Falls and Enfield Falls.
Especially, Lucifer Falls is a 115 ft lovely waterfall with a cool pool below. Therefore, people usually visit it during summer for cooling off.
Although there’s a bit difficult 2.5-mile trail from the lower car park, it is totally worth trying. Just wear suitable footwear.
Plan a family picnic at Lucifer Falls this summer.
Address: 105 Enfield Falls Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States Phone: +1 607-273-3440
Waterfalls in New York
17. Waterfalls in New York: Enfield Falls, Robert H Treman State Park, Ithaca
Enfield Falls or Lower Falls is a lovely waterfall that has a sparkling pool at its base.
Located in Robert H. Treman State Park, Enfield Falls is also surrounded by a calm and refreshing environment. So, come along with your family and have fun.
Address: 105 Enfield Falls Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States Phone: +1 607-273-3440
Waterfalls in New York
- Niagara Falls, Buffalo
- Upper Falls, Letchworth State Park
- Middle Falls, Letchworth State Park
- Lower Falls, Letchworth State Park
- Indian Brook Falls, Philipstown
- Buttermilk Falls State Park, Ithaca
- Rainbow Falls, Ausable Chasm
- Rainbow Falls, Watkins Glen State Park
- Taughannock Falls State Park, Trumansburg
- New Croton Dam, Westchester County
- Eternal Flame Falls, Orchard Park
- Chittenango Falls, Madison County
- Kaaterskill Falls, Catskill Mountains
- High Falls, Rochester
- Ithaca Falls, Ithaca
- Lucifer Falls, Robert H Treman State Park, Ithaca
Waterfalls in New York
