If There Are Only 5 Waterfall Hikes You Take In New York, Make Them These
By Rachel Pfutzenreuter|Published May 19, 2022
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Rachel Pfutzenreuter
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Rachel lives just north of Chicago, she has two boys and a dog named Sky. She is always planning her next trip, and loves to help friends, family, and her readers find their next adventure.
New York is the only state that borders both the Atlantic Ocean and the Great Lakes, and it encompasses 70,000 miles of rivers and streams. If we are going to discuss natural waters in the Empire State, let’s get our feet wet with waterfalls. There are many waterfalls here! We would like to take this opportunity to suggest five waterfall hikes to you that will undoubtedly knock your socks off.
The Gorge Trail to Taughannock Falls, located in Taughannock Falls State Park, is rated as an easy 1.8-mile out and back hike. Did you know that this waterfall, at 215 feet tall, is actually taller than Niagara Falls?
The trail takes you from the park’s main entrance to the bottom of the waterfall. You will pass the 20-foot Little, or Lower, Falls on the way. For more information, visit the Taughannock Falls State Park website or AllTrails.com.
Watkins Glen State Park, near the southern tip of Seneca Lake, contains 19 waterfalls. Hike the moderate 1.5-mile out and back Gorge Trail to admire Rainbow Falls.
Watkins Glen State Park, 1009 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891, USA
On this enchanting trail, you will cross stone bridges, and climb a number of steps. The elevation gain is 393 feet. Pets are not allowed on the trail. For more information, visit the Watkins Glen State Park website or AllTrails.com.
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Letchworth State Park, also called the Grand Canyon of the East, features many, many waterfalls. Hike the moderately challenging Gorge Trail to view the spectacular 107-foot Middle Falls.
The trail runs 7 miles one way, so plan to spend the day, or park in one of the lots along the trail to hike just the section you choose. The park includes a trout pond for fishing. For more information, visit the Letchworth State Park website or view a trail map.
Buttermilk Falls State Park, in Ithaca, offers a moderately challenging 1.6-mile loop trail to see the 165-foot Buttermilk Falls up close. You can swim at the base of the falls in the summer.
Buttermilk Falls State Park, 106 E Buttermilk Falls Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
Take the Gorge Trail out, and the Rim Trail back, to make a loop. The elevation gain is 462 feet, and the steepest part is at the beginning. The path can be wet, and there are a few stairs to climb, so sturdy shoes are recommended. For more information, visit the Buttermilk Falls State Park website or AllTrails.com.
The Buttermilk Brook Bear Slides Trail, 1.9 miles out and back, is found in the Lake George Wild Forest. The trail is rated as easy, and showcases the Bear Slides Falls.
Put your chairs in the water and enjoy a picnic lunch. You can easily walk, and play, in these shallow waters close to where Buttermilk Brook empties into the Hudson River.
For more information, visit AllTrails.com.
