The 19 Best Waterfalls in New York You Need to Visit
New York is home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the U.S., from towering cascades to hidden forest gems. Whether you're chasing scenic beauty or an adventurous hike, exploring the best waterfalls in New York is a must for nature lovers. With so many incredible falls, there's something for every traveler to enjoy.
If you're looking for the ultimate New York waterfall guide, you'll find everything from easy roadside views to fun trails leading to spectacular falls. Some of these natural wonders are nestled in state parks, while others are hidden gems tucked away from the crowds.
From top waterfalls in NY like Niagara Falls to lesser-known treasures tucked away in the Catskills, there's no shortage of stunning spots to explore. Whether you're visiting in summer for lush greenery or in winter for frozen cascades, these waterfalls are definitely to be added to any nature-lover's bucket list while in New York.
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The Best Waterfalls in New York: a Brief Intro
When most people think of New York, they think of NYC. We recently published an Instagram carousel about waterfalls in New York, and people couldn't believe just how many waterfalls the state has!
New York is home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the United States actually, and we've been on a hunt to find the best waterfalls in New York to share with you.
🤩 How Many Waterfalls are There in NY?
New York boasts over 2,000 waterfalls scattered across the state, making it a paradise for waterfall chasers! While some of the best waterfalls in New York are well-known tourist attractions, others are tucked away in forests, and a true hidden gems.
With such a vast number of waterfalls in New York, you can find everything from multi-tiered cascades to plunging drops, each offering its own unique charm and beauty.
New York is full of stunning waterfalls.
🏙 Does New York City have Waterfalls?
While New York City certainly isn't where you'll find the best waterfalls in New York, there actually are a few that you can enjoy in some of the parks around the five boroughs! Keep reading, because we do have one waterfall right in the heart of Manhattan that we're going to share with you.
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📍 Where Can You Find the Best Waterfalls in New York?
If you're looking for the best waterfalls in New York, then get ready to escape the NYC area! The majority of the best waterfalls in New York are in upstate New York and Western New York.
Our personal favorite for the top area to explore the best waterfalls in New York is in the Finger Lakes. Ithaca and Watkins Glen are covered in stunning cascades, and this area can be the perfect weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of New York City.
The Best Waterfalls in New York
So are you ready to explore the best waterfalls in New York? This list covers the top waterfalls of the state to some of the hidden gems we found and loved.
1. Niagara Falls
One of the most famous waterfalls in the world, Niagara Falls is a must-visit for any traveler to New York. Straddling the border between the U.S. and Canada, this powerful cascade consists of three massive falls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.
Whether you view it from the observation decks, take a boat ride on the Maid of the Mist, or explore Niagara Falls State Park, this natural wonder is truly breathtaking, and one of the best waterfalls in New York, as well as the entire country of the United States.
Want to experience all of the best that Niagara Falls has to offer? Here are some popular tours that you can sign up for!
2. Taughannock Falls
Towering at 215 feet, Taughannock Falls is the tallest single-drop waterfall in the north east. Located in Taughannock Falls State Park near Ithaca, this stunning waterfall is surrounded by dramatic cliffs that make it particularly picturesque.
The park offers a beautiful viewpoint from above the falls, as well as the scenic Gorge Trail that provides an easy and scenic walk right up to the base of the falls.
3. Kaaterskill Falls
Nestled in the Catskill Mountains, Kaaterskill Falls is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in New York, and a must-visit for nature-lovers exploring the Catskills.
This two-tiered cascade plunges a total of 260 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the state, and it can be viewed from a platform, or from two different points along a short trail.
The short but steep hike to the viewing platforms offers incredible panoramic views, especially during the fall when the foliage creates a magical backdrop. Truthfully though, it is magical year round! I've visited in both summer and winter - just make sure you're careful hiking in the winter as the trail gets super slippery!
4. Eternal Flame Falls
The Eternal Flame Falls all the way in Western New York is one of the most unique waterfalls in New York, and definitely a great waterfall for those wanting to see something different.
It's famous for the small natural gas flame that burns behind its cascading waters. Located in Chestnut Ridge Park, this hidden gem is best visited in the spring or after heavy rainfall when the water flow is at its strongest. The combination of fire and water makes it one of the best waterfalls in New York, and definitely one for the bucket list.
5. Letchworth Falls
Known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park is home to three major waterfalls along the Genesee River- the Upper Falls, Middle Falls, and Lower Falls.
These dramatic cascades are surrounded by towering cliffs and lush forests, offering some of the most scenic landscapes in the state.Whether you visiting in the summer or winter, you can explore the park’s hiking trails and scenic overlooks.
- Upper Falls: A stunning 70-foot waterfall with a scenic railroad bridge towering above it. (top two photos)
- Middle Falls: An incredible view of the most powerful part of the falls (lower photo)
- Lower Falls: A beautiful cascade framed by dramatic rock formations and accessible via a short but rewarding hike.
There are some beautiful views that you can appreciate above the canyon.
6. Seneca Mills & Falls
Located along the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail, Seneca Mills Falls is a peaceful yet powerful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Once home to historic mills, this area now offers an amazing spot for hiking, photography, and enjoying nature. The trail is relatively easy, making it a great stop for all types of visitors to the area.
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7. Watkins Glen Gorge Trail
The Watkins Glen Gorge Trail is one of the most popular and scenic hiking trails in the Finger Lakes region of New York. This 1.5-mile trail winds its way through an incredible gorge, with 19 stunning waterfalls and cascading streams.
As you walk the trails, you’ll pass through narrow passageways, go under stone bridges, and enjoy alongside cliffside views that give you breathtaking perspectives of the different waterfalls.
The trail is relatively easy to navigate, with well-maintained steps and paths, making it accessible to the majority of hikers. At the end of the trail, you'll be rewarded with an incredible view of the Glen Creek waterfall, which drops dramatically into the pool below.
8. Glenora Falls
A hidden gem in the Finger Lakes region, Glenora Falls is a beautiful cascade tucked away in a fairytale setting. The falls flow gracefully over multiple rock ledges, creating a mesmerizing scene that’s perfect for photography, and even a spot where you can have the perfect backdrop for your wedding!
If you're visiting the region, Glenora Falls is an excellent place to stop between enjoying all of the wineries in the area.
9. Hector Falls
One of the largest waterfalls in the Finger Lakes region, Hector Falls is a multi-tiered beauty that stretches over 165 feet. Located near Watkins Glen, this waterfall is unique because it can be seen right off the side of the road, or you can also do a short hike that takes you to a more unique viewing area.
10. Excelsior Glen Trail
The Excelsior Glen Trail leads to a series of stunning waterfalls near Seneca Lake, and is just right down the road from Hector Falls. This lesser-known trail offers a peaceful escape, with cascading falls hidden among the dense forest. While the trail can be a bit rugged, the reward is a quiet and beautiful spot that feels like a secret gem.
Don't have time to read the whole article and want to save it for later? Just pin it!
11. Aunt Sarah's Falls
A roadside waterfall that’s easy to visit, Aunt Sarah’s Falls is best viewed after a rainfall when the water flow is stronger than this picture. This seasonal waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff, making for a quick but scenic stop for waterfall lovers exploring the Finger Lakes region.
12. Shequaga Falls Park
Right in the heart of Montour Falls, Shequaga Falls is an impressive waterfall that plunges dramatically over a sheer rock wall, and is honestly one of the most underrated waterfalls in New York!
What makes this waterfall special is that it’s easily accessible, with no hiking required! It’s a great spot to relax and take in the beauty of nature while exploring the town, and you can park just on the road next to the grassy area leading to it.
It's particularly on of the best waterfalls in New York to visit in spring, as they have gorgeous cherry blossom trees that you can use to frame you photos!
13. Deckertown Falls
Tucked away in a quiet forest area, Deckertown Falls is a a true hidden gem that offers a peaceful setting away from it all. The short walk to the falls leads to a scenic cascade surrounded by mossy rocks and lush greenery, making it a perfect stop for nature lovers wanting a quiet escape into nature.
14. Eagle Cliff Falls
Located in Havana Glen Park, Eagle Cliff Falls doesn't always have a ton of water, but is unique due to being framed by high cliffs, creating a dramatic setting. The short but scenic hike to the falls is easy and well worth the effort, making it a fantastic spot for families and photographers alike.
15. Lucifer Falls
Located in Robert H. Treman State Park, Lucifer Falls is a spectacular waterfall that plunges over 100 feet down a rugged gorge. The park’s Upper Falls Trailhead and Lower Falls Trailhead both offer stunning viewpoints, with stone staircases and scenic overlooks.
- Upper Falls Trailhead – Provides breathtaking views of Lucifer Falls from above. This trail is a little over 2 miles each way.
- Lower Falls Trailhead – Leads to a natural swimming area below the falls, perfect for a refreshing dip in summer, and is a much shorter 1 mile loop trail. (the picture below is from the lower falls).
16. Buttermilk Falls
One of the most popular waterfalls in Ithaca, Buttermilk Falls features a stunning set of cascades falling over a rocky wall, creating a natural pool. The falls can be viewed right off the side of the road, but the park offers a variety of trails that follow the gorge, leading to multiple smaller waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.
17. Ithaca Falls
Located right in downtown Ithaca, Ithaca Falls is a powerful 150-foot cascade that’s easily accessible and stunning year-round. Its close proximity to the city makes it one of the most visited waterfalls in the Finger Lakes region.
18. Ausable Chasm
Often called the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks,” Ausable Chasm is home to several waterfalls, dramatic rock formations, and thrilling adventure activities like rafting and rock climbing. The waterfalls here carve through the deep gorge, creating a truly mesmerizing scenery.
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19. North Woods Loch Waterfall (Central Park)
Yes, New York City does have waterfalls! Okay, maybe not a ton, and certainly not nearly as impressive as the ones in upstate New York, but we couldn't help but mention this waterfall as it's a little hidden gem right in the heart of Manhattan.
The North Woods Loch Waterfall is located in Central Park, is a peaceful little cascade tucked away in the park’s scenic woodland area. It’s a quiet escape from the city and a reminder that nature can be found even in the most unexpected places.
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How to Experience the Best Waterfalls in New York
Honestly, upstate New York doesn't have the best public transportation when it comes to reaching places out in nature, and it's hard to find tours that go to these other than Niagara Falls. Most of the best waterfalls in New York can only be reached by car, and many of them are in a concentrated area.
We'd recommend renting a car and spending a couple of nights in the Finger Lakes to be able to experience many of these, or you can take a road trip to Niagara Falls and stop at Taughannock and Letchworth on the way.
We've done both of those trips, and found that with all of the incredible stops we were able to see a lot of the best waterfalls in New York in just a few days!
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We hope you enjoyed our list of the best waterfalls in New York! As a local, I love sharing unique places and things to do around this beautiful state.
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