15 Stunning Finger Lakes Waterfalls You Must Visit -

The Finger Lakes region isn’t just about wine and lakes—it’s also home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in New York State.

With over 150 cascades scattered across Ithaca and nearby towns, you could spend days chasing them and still not see them all.

Taughannock Falls – Taller Than Niagara

Taughannock Falls drops a staggering 215 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rockies—yes, even taller than Niagara’s American Falls!

A flat, family-friendly trail leads you straight to the base, making it a great pick for kids and seniors.

Entry fees: The state park charges a small vehicle fee during peak season.
Parking: Plenty of spots are available near the trailhead.
Estimated hiking time: 30–40 minutes round trip.

Pro Tip: Visit around midday for the best lighting on the falls.

Buttermilk Falls (Ithaca) – Cascades & Swimming Holes

Buttermilk Falls State Park is a local favorite where the water tumbles down a broad, frothy slope before forming natural swimming holes.

The lower falls area is great for families, while the gorge trail climbs past smaller cascades.

Entry fees: Standard NY state park pass or daily vehicle fee applies.
Parking: Multiple lots near the lower falls entrance.
Estimated hiking time: Gorge Trail loop takes about 1–1.5 hours.

Lucifer Falls at Robert H. Treman State Park

Lucifer Falls is dramatic, dropping 115 feet into a deep gorge. The Rim and Gorge Trails create a scenic loop that gives you both top-down and base views.

Entry fees: Covered by the NY state park pass.
Parking: Ample parking at both upper and lower entrances.
Estimated hiking time: Full loop takes about 2–3 hours.

Insider Tip: Start from the upper entrance for an easier downhill hike.

Enfield Falls – Natural Swimming Spot

Also within Robert H. Treman State Park, Enfield Falls is a broad, picturesque cascade with a designated swimming area guarded in summer.

Entry fees: Same as Treman park fee.
Parking: Right near the swimming area.
Estimated hiking time: Just a few minutes’ walk from parking.

Cascadilla Gorge Falls – Downtown Ithaca’s Hidden Gem

Right in the heart of Ithaca, the Cascadilla Gorge Trail connects Cornell University to downtown with eight small but charming waterfalls along the way.

Parking: Street parking available nearby.
Estimated hiking time: 45–60 minutes for the full trail.
Family-Friendly Pick: Gentle grade makes it great for kids.

Insider Tip: Perfect for an evening stroll after dinner in downtown Ithaca.

Ithaca Falls – The City’s Showpiece

Ithaca Falls is massive, 150 feet high and nearly 175 feet wide, located just minutes from downtown. It’s one of the most accessible big waterfalls in the region.

Parking: Street parking right by the falls.
Estimated hiking time: Less than 10 minutes from car to viewpoint.
Family-Friendly Pick: Easy walk, safe viewing area, and no long hike needed.

Nearby Attraction: Combine your visit with a stop at Ithaca’s farmers market for local eats.

Triphammer Falls – Cornell’s Campus Cascade

Located on Cornell University’s campus, Triphammer Falls tumbles beneath a pedestrian bridge, offering a scenic backdrop for students and visitors alike.

Parking: Available in campus lots or nearby streets.
Estimated hiking time: Quick viewpoint stop—no major hike.

Pro Tip: Visit in fall when the campus trees frame the waterfall in brilliant colors.

Wells Falls – The Old Mill Backdrop

Also called Businessman’s Lunch Falls, Wells Falls flows past the ruins of an old mill, adding a touch of history to the natural scene.

Parking: Limited, but accessible near Giles Street.
Estimated hiking time: 10–15 minutes walk.

Nearby Attraction: Pair it with a stroll through Ithaca Commons for coffee or lunch.

Lick Brook Falls – A Wild Gorge Escape

For those who prefer quieter trails, Lick Brook offers a series of waterfalls surrounded by lush forest. The trail is steeper but worth the effort.

Parking: Small lot at the trailhead.
Estimated hiking time: 1.5–2 hours for the full trail.

Hector Falls – Roadside Beauty on Seneca Lake

Hector Falls is unique because you can see it right from the roadside on Route 414. It drops in multiple tiers, with the upper portion visible from the road.

Parking: Roadside pull-off available.
Estimated hiking time: Just a viewpoint stop.

Shequaga Falls – Downtown Montour’s Crown Jewel

Located right in the middle of Montour Falls, Shequaga Falls plunges dramatically behind a residential street. It’s one of the easiest-to-access falls in the Finger Lakes.

Parking: Street parking steps away.
Estimated hiking time: 5 minutes from car to viewpoint.
Family-Friendly Pick: Perfect stop for families on a road trip.

Nearby Attraction: Explore Montour Falls historic district while you’re here.

Eagle Cliff Falls – Hidden in Havana Glen Park

This 40-foot waterfall is tucked away in Havana Glen Park, framed by towering cliffs.

Entry fees: Small local park fee applies.
Parking: Available right at the entrance.
Estimated hiking time: 10–15 minutes.

Montour Falls Area – More Cascades Nearby

Beyond Shequaga and Eagle Cliff, Montour Falls is home to multiple cascades that earned it the nickname “Valley of Waterfalls.” It’s a must-stop town for waterfall chasers.

Nearby Attraction: The Watkins Glen wine trail is just minutes away.

Rainbow Falls – Watkins Glen State Park’s Star

Arguably the most photographed waterfall in the Finger Lakes, Rainbow Falls is pure magic. The stone bridge, mossy cliffs, and mist create a fairytale setting.

Entry fees: Covered by park pass.
Parking: Large lots at park entrances.
Estimated hiking time: 1–2 hours along the Gorge Trail.

Watkins Glen State Park Gorge Falls – A World of Waterfalls

Watkins Glen packs over a dozen waterfalls into just two miles of trail. From Cavern Cascade to Central Cascade, every step feels like a new discovery.

Entry fees: Same as Rainbow Falls—covered by state park pass.
Parking: Multiple large lots.
Estimated hiking time: Full Gorge Trail takes 2–3 hours.
Family-Friendly Pick: Shorter sections can be managed even with kids.

Nearby Attraction: Watkins Glen village offers dining, shops, and Seneca Lake cruises.

Final Thoughts: A Region Overflowing with Beauty

From roadside cascades to epic gorge trails, the Finger Lakes has it all.

Whether you’re traveling with family, chasing photo ops, or looking for a full-day hiking adventure, you’ll find a waterfall that fits the bill.

Share this content:

15 Stunning Finger Lakes Waterfalls You Must Visit

Table of Contents