New York
Nature|Waterfalls

You Can Practically Drive Right Up To The Beautiful Chittenango Falls In New York

Chittenango Falls in New York offers an easily accessible and breathtaking waterfall experience.

Updated Aug 10, 2021

Written by 

Lea Monroe

If you're looking for a state that's full of natural wonders, then look no further than the Empire State. With an abundance of waterfalls, lakes, and mountains for you to explore, there's so much scenic beauty sitting right at your fingertips when you're here. Some of the most beautiful places in New York may be a bit difficult to get to, requiring a lengthy hike or hard-to-navigate trails, but there are some that are surprisingly sitting right along the roadside. If you're looking for "waterfalls near me in New York" and you happen to live near Cazenovia, then see how you can practically drive right up to this one waterfall!

Nestled away on a winding road, all it takes is a scenic drive out to the small town of Cazenovia to experience Chittenango Falls.

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Sean Hagan/YouTube

As soon as you begin to approach the small but sweet state park, you'll begin to hear the roar of the falls from the roadside and parking lot.

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cnycompguy/Flickr

After you park, just steps away from you you'll have amazing views of Chittenango Creek that runs through the heart of the state park, and a look at the massive waterfall.

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katie wheeler/Flickr

Chittenango Falls cascades down nearly 170-feet along the creek, making it one of the tallest waterfalls that you can visit here in New York.

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If you're looking to fully soak in the sights that Chittenango Falls has to offer, you can take a brief walk down a stone staircase to reach the base of the falls!

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Mike Christoferson/Flickr

At the base of the falls, you'll find a viewing bridge that you won't believe how easy it was to reach.

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All are reachable within a matter of minutes, the fact that this breathtaking waterfall is so easily accessible is just one of the many things we love about living in New York.

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If you're looking for a quick waterfall adventure that the entire family can enjoy, then just look along the roadside for Chittenango Falls State Park.

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To find out more about visiting Chittenango Falls in New York, click here.

Address: 2300 Rathbun Road, Cazenovia, NY, 13035

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There is no need to keep searching waterfalls near me in New York when you have places like Chittenango Falls to explore! Have you ever been to this roadside waterfall? Share with us your experience in the comments section! Or if you have other easily accessible natural wonders in New York, make sure to shout them out, too.

If you're still feeling eager to chase beautiful places to visit in New York, then be sure to also read about The Deep Green Gorge In New York That Feels Like Something Out Of A Fairy Tale!

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Nature|Hiking

The Stunning Top-Secret Natural Spring in New York Nobody’s Ever Heard of

The best hidden waterfall in New York is found in a small Central New York wilderness along a challenging but beautiful trail.

Published Sep 28, 2024

Written by 

Raymond Goldfield

New York's waterfalls and springs are famous around the world - especially when you talk about a certain one up north! But New York is actually a big state, and there are some fascinating spots far off the beaten path that are well-worth exploring. You just might have to put some work into getting there. I was surprised to find the best-hidden waterfall in New York was located near the tiny town of North Creek, in the little-known Siamese Ponds Wilderness. That's where you'll find the Shanty Brook Trail, a 1.3-mile trail rated moderate. While it's a short trail, it does pack some unique challenges into its half-hour hike - but we think it's well worth the challenge.

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The Shanty Brook Trail is one of New York's hidden gems, found in a deeply remote area of the state with no major towns around. While it's rated moderate, it will require you to venture off well-maintained trails and into some challenging terrain.

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Joe Helt/AllTrails

The most challenging part of this trail comes right at the start, as you'll have to cross the Sacandaga River. This is usually a fairly slow-moving and shallow river, so all you'll need is a good pair of wading boots - but be careful to not take this trail after heavy rain.

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Han Ng/AllTrails

From there, it's a quick but challenging hike uphill until you reach the titular Shanty Brook - a twelve-foot waterfall that makes for amazing photo opportunities. The best part is that the challenging approach means you'll likely have this area all to yourself.

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Although far from New York's tallest waterfall, the Shanty Brook Waterfall is an incredible sight and can be walked right up to. While this isn't a suitable place for swimming, it is a great place to cool off before heading back!

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There are actually eighteen trails in the immediate area of the wilderness, many moderately challenging and remote, making exploring this area this the perfect day of adventure.

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Have you hiked the Shanty Brook Trail to see this magical hidden waterfall in New York? Let us know about your hike in the comments section, and you can visit the AllTrails trail listing for more details and pictures. If you want to know more about the Siamese Ponds Wilderness, check out its page on the NY DEC website. This is the kind of hike AllTrails + was made for - the point-by-point directions are incredibly useful in a remote, fast-paced hike like this. And if you're looking for a memorable stay in the area, this Victorian-style B&B is about an hour away in the Lake George area.

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Nature|Waterfalls

The High Falls Trail Is One Of The Best Waterfall Hikes In New York

Published Jul 6, 2024

Written by 

Courtnie Erickson

New York is home to extraordinary natural features. However, some of my personal favorites are the falls that dot the state. High Falls is one of these gorgeous New York waterfalls. It is lesser-known, quiet, and beautiful. It’s a picture-perfect destination for a day outdoors. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab some water, and get ready to experience one of the best waterfall hikes in New York.

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Tucked away in the Titusville Mountain State Forest and just a short drive from Owls Head is the trailhead to High Falls. This New York waterfall hike needs to be on your itinerary when you find yourself in the area.

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Scott Childs/AllTrails

Keep in mind that a four-wheel-drive vehicle is strongly recommended to reach the trailhead. The trail is located off County Highway 27 and Barnesville Road near Owls Head.

The hike to reach this gorgeous waterfall is approximately 1.6 miles. It is an out-and-back trail with slight elevation gain but it’s considered quite easy. Beginning hikers and even those with little legs can complete this trail.

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As you trek through the forest, you’ll feel like you are far away from the cares of the world — and you just might be. This is a lesser-known trail and it’s not uncommon to find yourself alone on your journey. Enjoy the solitude of this outdoor destination.

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While the trail’s distance isn’t long, it sure is beautiful. Stop to admire the rushing streams and the vegetation growing along the path. Just make sure you are respectful of every remarkable creation. Always leave the trail better than when you found it.

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You will need to watch your feet on portions of this trail. You will trek over wooden bridges and there are some steps you will need to climb.

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Aaron Watson/AllTrails

However, every step will be worth it once you reach the waterfall. High Falls may not be the largest waterfall in New York but it is certainly impressive. Give yourself time to sit back and enjoy the sounds of the flowing water and admire the beauty of the area.

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You may even want to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy your time here — it truly is breathtaking.

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The trek to High Falls should be on your bucket list every season throughout the year. The vibrant fall foliage makes this a stunning masterpiece in the autumn, and in the winter, the frozen falls create the ultimate snowshoeing destination. Keep in mind that the spring months can be muddy so come prepared.

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For more information on High Falls in New York, visit AllTrails. Consider downloading AllTrails+ as well for the ability to download trail maps, to know trail conditions before you go, and more.

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Have you ever hiked to High Falls in New York? What are some of your favorite waterfall hikes in New York? Let us know in the comments.

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