I’m warning you right now I’m not an avid hiker. That’s exactly why I created this list. Most of these parks and waterfalls are extremely accessible (Taughannock Falls, Lucifer Falls, and Ithaca Falls), while Watkins Glen State Park and Buttermilk Farms State Park are more of a hike, but still totally worth the views.
Whether you’re a hiker or non-hiker like me, these five waterfalls are not to be missed while in the Finger Lakers. They are breathtaking and a simple getaway for those coming for a long weekend getaway.
My preferable time was early October when there’s a crisp in the air and beautiful fall foliage on the up and across the mountainsides.
Taughannock Falls
1740 Taughannock Blvd.
Trumansburg, NY 14886
Taughannock Falls State Park's namesake waterfall is one of the outstanding natural attractions of the Northeast. Taughannock Falls plunges 215 feet past rocky cliffs that tower nearly 400 feet above the gorge. Gorge and rim trails offer spectacular views from above the falls and from below at the end of the gorge trail.
Enjoy swimming in Cayuga Lake, a picnic area, concessions, a playground, camping, and cabins. There is a marina offering parking for 25 rigs, a concession stand, and a protected harbor. *Swimming areas are only open when a lifeguard is on duty.
Good for: Hiking, Running, Snowshoeing, Picnicking allowed, Restrooms Available.
Check out Taughannock Falls State Park for the latest park updates.
Lucifer Falls in Robert H. Treman State Park
105 Enfield Falls Rd.
Ithaca, NY 14850
Lucifer Falls is a 115 ft cascade in side Robert H. Treman State Park, with the rugged gorge called Enfield Glen as its scenic highlight. Winding trails follow the gorge past 12 waterfalls, including the Lucifer Falls, to where visitors can see a mile-and-a-half down the wooded gorge as it winds its way to the lower park.
The best water flow will be after rainy weather and in the spring and fall. Winter will give you the opportunity to see the lower falls frozen over.
Check out Robert H. Treman State Park for all the latest park updates.
Buttermilk Falls at Buttermilk Falls State Park
112 E. Buttermilk Falls Rd.
(Off Rt. 13 S)
Ithaca, NY 14850
Buttermilk Falls State Park takes its name from the foaming cascade formed by Buttermilk Creek as it flows down the steep valley side toward Cayuga Lake.
The upper park has a small lake, hiking trails through woodlands and along the gorge and rim, picnic areas and playing fields.
The lower park has a campground, natural pool and playing fields, beyond which is Larch Meadows. Larch Meadows is a wetland area through which a nature trail winds.
Check out Buttermilk Falls State Park for all the latest park updates.
Watkins Glen State Park
1009 N Franklin St
Watkins Glen, NY 14891
Watkins Glen State Park is the most famous of the Finger Lakes State Parks, with a reputation for leaving visitors spellbound. Within two miles, the glen's stream descends 400 feet past 200-foot cliffs, generating 19 waterfalls along its course. The gorge path winds over and under waterfalls and through the spray of Cavern Cascade. Rim trails overlook the gorge. Campers and daytime visitors can enjoy the Olympic-size pool, modern playground, scheduled summer tours through the gorge, tent and trailer campsites, picnic facilities, and excellent fishing in nearby Seneca Lake or in Catherine Creek, which is renowned for its annual spring run of rainbow trout.
Parking:
Vehicle entrance was $10 per vehicle.
Another alternative is the Empire Pass card is $80, and your key to all-season enjoyment with unlimited day-use entry at most facilities operated by State Parks and the State Dept. of Environmental Conservation including forests, beaches, trails and more.
Locals Tip: If in NY, I know my local library offers the Empire Pass to check out and use for a few days.
Camping:
Costs: $18-$30
Out of state resident fee for camping, per night: $5
Pet Policy: A maximum of two pets are allowed in campsites and day use areas unless prohibited by sign or directive (not allowed on Gorge Trail). Pets are to be supervised at all times and either be crated or on a leash not more than 6-feet in length. Proof of rabies inoculation shall be produced if requested by staff. Pets are not permitted in playgrounds, buildings, pools and spray-grounds or guarded beaches (this does not apply to service animals).
Dogs aren't permitted on the gorge trail. Mostly due to its narrow, steep, and crowded trail.
Check out Watkins Glen State Park for all the latest park updates.
Ithaca FallS
399 Lake St, Ithaca, NY 14850
Experience one of Ithaca's secret waterfalls close to downtown and near Stewart Park, a great place to stop and enjoy a picnic lunch or just relax with a good book! With a 150ft cascading fall, watch Fall Creek’s final plunge to Cayuga Lake.
Know Before You Go: Swimming is prohibited. Dogs are allowed on leash. There is no fee.
Directions from Ithaca: From downtown, take Aurora St. north 0.7mi to Lincoln St. Turn right, then take an immediate left onto Lake St. The falls will be on your right. Park on nearby city streets or the small lot adjacent to the falls.
Learn more about Ithaca Falls from Visit Ithaca’s website.
