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If you love chasing waterfalls, Ithaca, NY belongs at the top of your list. I visited in the fall and was completely blown away by how much this area has to offer. The peak fall colors only added to the already beautiful views. Before my trip, I had no idea there were more than 150 waterfalls in and around Ithaca until I started researching the best things to do here.
Beyond the waterfalls, Ithaca also surprised me with its food scene, hiking, wineries, and overall atmosphere. You can read more in my guide on why Ithaca, NY is worth visiting.
Ithaca packs an incredible number of waterfalls into a compact area, many of them surprisingly easy to reach. It is not just a catchy saying when locals say “Ithaca is gorges.” It is a statement backed up by steep stone walls, rushing water, and beautiful trails that do not require long or difficult hikes.
On my trip, I focused on the waterfalls I could realistically fit into a short visit. I explored waterfalls in town, on Cornell’s campus, and inside nearby state parks. I also made time for Watkins Glen, which is not technically in Ithaca but is only a short drive away and absolutely worth the visit.
If you are planning a waterfall focused trip to Ithaca, this post will help you decide where to go, what to expect on the trails, and how to build a route that feels doable. These are some of the best waterfalls to visit in and around Ithaca, and the ones I would absolutely recommend for your trip.
The Best Waterfalls to Visit in Ithaca, NY
Ithaca sits in the Finger Lakes region at the southern end of Cayuga Lake, where glacial landscapes carved deep gorges throughout the city. That geology is why waterfalls show up everywhere here, from campus paths to nearby state parks. It is also why Ithaca works so well for both quick stops and longer hikes.
Most of Ithaca’s top waterfalls are close together, which makes it easy to see several in one or two days without feeling rushed.
These are the ones I would recommend starting with.
🗺️ Map of the Best Waterfalls in Ithaca, NY
This map shows the main waterfall stops in this guide and makes it easy to plan a one or two day trip.
1. Ithaca Falls
Ithaca Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the area and also one of the easiest to reach. I did wonder where my GPS was taking me since it led right into the middle of the city, but once I arrived, it was absolutely worth it. There is a convenient parking lot directly across the street, and the falls are only a short walk in.
This is a quick stop with a gorgeous view, and you can hear the rush of the water before you even see the falls. When I visited, there were fishermen wading in the water at the base, which really put the scale of the waterfall into perspective. This is also the photo I end up using the most when sharing highlights from my trip to Ithaca.
👉 Good to know before you go
- Cost: Free
- Ease of access: Very easy, short walk from the parking area
- Trail type: Short path to viewpoints, optional closer trail depending on conditions
- Swimming: No
- Suggested time: 20–30 minutes
2. Buttermilk Falls State Park
Buttermilk Falls is a classic Ithaca waterfall stop because it works for almost any travel style. If you want something quick, you can see the main falls easily from the lower area. If you want more adventure, the gorge trail turns it into a stair heavy walk with multiple cascades along the way. It is also one of the better options if swimming is on your list.
👉 Good to know before you go
- Cost: State park entrance fee, typically around $10 per vehicle or Empire Pass
- Ease of access: Right next to lower parking area
- Trail type: Optional gorge trail with stone steps for a harder hike
- Swimming: Yes, designated swimming area and beach
- Suggested time: Lower falls and overlook: 30–45 minutes, Gorge trail hike: 1.5–2 hours
💡Helpful tip: The $10 New York State Park entrance fee is valid all day and can be used at multiple New York State Parks.
3. Taughannock Falls State Park
Taughannock Falls is a Must See in the Ithaca area, and it is also one of the easiest to experience. The waterfall is massive, with a drop over 200 feet, and you can appreciate that scale without a tough hike.
The overlook points are the main reason this stop is so easy to reach. You can park and walk a short distance to a viewpoint that gives you a dramatic look straight across the gorge. If you want to get closer, the lower gorge trail leads to the base of the falls and is manageable for most visitors.
👉 Good to know before you go
- Cost: State park entrance fee, typically around $10 per vehicle or Empire Pass
- Ease of access: Very easy to the overlook. The lower gorge trail is about three quarters of a mile one way and mostly flat.
- Trail type: Short overlook walks, plus a mostly flat lower gorge trail
- Swimming: No
- Suggested time: Overlooks only: 20–30 minutes, Lower gorge trail: 1–1.5 hours
Flow changes throughout the year. It looks fuller in spring and after heavy rain, and it can be lighter in drier summer stretches, but the height and setting still make it one of the most impressive stops.
4. Robert H. Treman State Park
Robert H. Treman State Park came highly recommended by my Airbnb host, and it ended up being one of my favorite stops. I love getting local tips when I travel. Many times they lead me to the best, most unexpected places.
The park has stone lined gorge paths, winding staircases, and waterfalls tucked into the landscape. When I visited, there were barely any crowds, which was a noticeable change compared to Watkins Glen, yet Robert H. Treman State Park still offered some of the most scenic hikes in the area.
This park offers two very different experiences. Lower Falls is a short walk and a popular swimming spot in season, while Lucifer Falls is taller and more striking. Depending on how you approach it, you can keep your visit simple or turn it into a more challenging gorge hike.
👉 Good to know before you go
- Cost: State park entrance fee, typically around $10 per vehicle or Empire Pass
- Ease of access: Easy to Lower Falls, moderate to Lucifer Falls
- Trail type: Gorge trail with stone steps, plus shorter access options from different parking areas
- Swimming: Yes, at Lower Falls in season
- Suggested time: Lower Falls only: 30–45 minutes, Full gorge trail with Lucifer Falls: 2–3 hours
5. Watkins Glen State Park
Watkins Glen is one stop that is absolutely worth it if you have the time. When I started researching my trip, this was the place I kept seeing photos of, and it quickly moved to the top of my list. It is about a 45 minute drive from Ithaca, but it feels completely different from the other parks. If I only had time for one waterfall hike, this would easily be my top choice.
The Gorge Trail winds through a narrow stone gorge with waterfalls, tunnels, dramatic cliff walls, and stone bridges. Along the route, you will pass 19 waterfalls, including Cavern Cascade and Central Cascade, where you can actually walk behind the waterfalls. Rainbow Falls gets its name from the colorful mist that often appears on sunny days.
✨ Don’t miss this view: Many people turn around at Rainbow Falls. Continue up the bridge for a beautiful viewpoint most visitors skip.
This hike is more demanding than most Ithaca waterfall stops, so some level of fitness is recommended. You should also expect to get wet, as spray from the waterfalls reaches the trail in several spots. The stone steps and paths can be slippery, especially near the waterfalls, so shoes with good traction are important.
👉 Good to know before you go
- Cost: State park entrance fee, typically around $10 per vehicle or Empire Pass
- Ease of access: Moderate to challenging, with lots of stairs on the Gorge Trail
- Trail type: Gorge trail with many stone steps, plus rim trails that overlook the gorge
- Trail length: About 3 miles round trip on the Gorge Trail
- Swimming: The park fee can include pool access in season
- Suggested time: Full Gorge Trail round trip: 2–3 hours
❄️ Seasonal note: The Gorge Trail closes in winter when stones get icy and slippery. The rim trails are open year round.
💡Helpful tip: When in operation, a shuttle runs between the Main, South, and Upper entrances and costs about $6 per person each way. You can also reach the Gorge Trail from other areas of the park with your entrance fee, though these routes may require longer walks or steeper inclines.
6. Cornell Campus Waterfalls
Ithaca is home to Cornell University, and several waterfalls flow directly through its historic campus. Gorges and walking trails cut through the university, so a campus walk naturally includes waterfall stops. Because the campus sits in the heart of the city, these waterfalls are among the most accessible views in Ithaca and fit easily into a short visit.
The main waterfalls on the Cornell campus include:
Triphammer Falls
Triphammer Falls is one of the easiest waterfalls to see in Ithaca. You can view it right from campus paths and bridge viewpoints, and it feels like part of the landscape rather than a separate destination. This is a great stop if you want a quick waterfall view without any hiking.
Horseshoe Falls
Horseshoe Falls is located near Schoellkopf Field and looks noticeably different from many of the other waterfalls in the area thanks to its curved shape as it drops into the gorge. It feels quieter and a bit more tucked away, even though you are still on campus. This one is a great add on if you are already exploring Cornell.
Cascadilla Gorge
Cascadilla Gorge runs along the edge of Cornell’s campus and down toward downtown Ithaca. Stone steps follow Cascadilla Creek as it drops through a narrow ravine, passing a series of smaller waterfalls and cascades along the way. It feels more like a scenic walk than a single waterfall stop and works well if you want to see multiple falls in a short amount of time.
👉 Good to know before you go
- Cost: Free
- Ease of access: Easy to moderate, depending on the stop
- Trail type: Campus paths, overlook viewpoints, and gorge trails with stone steps
- Swimming: No
- Suggested time: 45–90 minutes total
I was able to fit these waterfalls into a two day trip to Ithaca, with time for a bit of city exploring as well. There were several more waterfalls on my list that I did not get to this time and saved for a future visit.
More Waterfalls to Visit If You Have Extra Time
If you have more time in Ithaca or want to build a different itinerary, here are additional waterfall options that came up during my planning for this trip. I did not make it to these on this trip, but they are worth keeping on your list.
- Wells Falls also known as Businessman’s Lunch Falls – A shorter waterfall stop that is often mentioned as a quick visit option. It is about 5 minutes from downtown Ithaca.
- Ludlowville Falls – A tall waterfall with a dramatic drop located about 20 minutes north of Ithaca. This one is often visited as a standalone stop and tends to look especially impressive after rain.
- Hector Falls – A roadside waterfall near Seneca Lake, about 30 minutes from Ithaca. This is a great option if you want minimal walking and a quick photo stop.
- Glenora Falls – Located near Seneca Lake wineries, about 40 minutes from Ithaca, a natural addition to a Finger Lakes driving or wine tasting day.
📍Hector Falls and Glenora Falls are both along the west side of Seneca Lake and are simple to visit together without backtracking.
- Shequaga Falls – A waterfall right in the village of Montour Falls with very easy access and a short walk. It is about 35 minutes from Ithaca and works well paired with Havana Glen Falls about 5 minutes away.
- Havana Glen Falls – A popular summer swimming waterfall with a short trail and picnic friendly setting. It is about 35 minutes from Ithaca and is often combined with Shequaga Falls as they are only about 3–5 minutes apart.
Tips for Visiting Ithaca Waterfalls
A little planning goes a long way when visiting Ithaca’s waterfalls. Many of them are easy to reach, but knowing what to expect ahead of time helps you pace your days, choose the right stops, and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.
Best Time to Visit Ithaca Waterfalls
Spring and early summer are ideal if you want to see waterfalls at their fullest. Snowmelt and seasonal rain increase water flow, especially at larger falls like Taughannock and Ithaca Falls. Summer brings warmer weather and swimming opportunities, though some waterfalls may have lighter flow during dry stretches.
Fall is beautiful for foliage, but water levels can vary. Winter visits are still possible, but some trails close due to ice. Watkins Glen’s Gorge Trail, in particular, closes in winter, while rim trails and overlook points remain open.
What to Wear When Visiting Ithaca Waterfalls
What you wear can make a big difference when visiting Ithaca’s waterfalls. Many trails include stone steps, shaded gorges, and damp surfaces and even on warm days, the air near waterfalls can feel cooler.
- Wear shoes with good traction. 👉These Columbia hiking boots are one of my favorite waterproof hiking boots.
- Bring layers, especially near shaded gorges
- Choose clothes you do not mind getting wet, especially at Watkins Glen
- Bring a small backpack to hold layers, water, and a snack. 👉This lightweight daypack is my go to for day long adventures.
Bring Water and a Snack
It is always a good idea to carry water and a small snack when visiting Ithaca’s waterfalls. Some gorge trails include stairs and elevation, and there are not always places to grab food or drinks near the trailheads. A small snack and a refillable water bottle go a long way toward keeping your day comfortable and unrushed.
🤍Worth sharing: At Watkins Glen, I ran into a fellow hiker who was starting to feel fatigued and had forgotten a snack. Having an extra granola bar to give them on hand made a big difference. You never know when a quick snack will be the pick me up you or someone else needs.
Getting Around and Planning Your Route
Driving is the easiest way to see multiple waterfalls in a day. Most major waterfalls have nearby parking, and many require only short walks to viewpoints. It is tempting to try to see everything, but spacing stops out makes the experience more relaxed. Build in time for walking, photos, and rest, especially if you plan to do gorge trails with stairs.
Where to Stay in Ithaca, NY
Ithaca is a small city, which works in your favor when planning a waterfall focused trip. Most visitors will have a car, and distances between waterfalls are short, so you are never far from the places you want to see.
While downtown Ithaca is great for dining, parking is usually easier outside the city center. Many waterfalls are near campus or in state parks with clearly marked parking, so staying just outside downtown or near parks can save time and hassle.
Here are a few great options to stay for chasing waterfalls in Ithaca:
- Inn at Taughannock Falls: This inn sits right next to Taughannock Falls State Park, making it a convenient choice if waterfalls are your priority. You’re just minutes from the falls and trails, with a quieter setting outside downtown and easy access to nature.
- Hampton Inn Ithaca: A solid, convenient option just outside downtown Ithaca, this hotel works well if you want quick driving access to waterfalls, Cornell’s campus, and nearby state parks without dealing with downtown parking.
- Ithaca Marriott Downtown on the Commons: If you prefer a downtown stay, this location is hard to beat. The hotel sits right on The Commons, Ithaca’s pedestrian only downtown area filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes. It’s ideal for walkable dining and evenings out, with waterfalls still just a short drive away.
FAQ
Here are answers to some of the questions I get asked most about the waterfalls in Ithaca.
Are Ithaca waterfalls free to visit?
Some are completely free, including Ithaca Falls and several waterfalls on Cornell’s campus. Many of the larger waterfalls are inside New York State Parks, which typically charge an entrance fee per vehicle.
What are the easiest waterfalls to get to in Ithaca?
Ithaca Falls is one of the easiest, with a very short walk from the parking area. The waterfalls on Cornell’s campus are also easy to see with little to no hiking. Taughannock Falls has an overlook that requires only a short walk and gives you an incredible view.
What is the biggest waterfall in Ithaca?
Taughannock Falls is the tallest single drop waterfall in the area and one of the tallest east of the Mississippi. Its height is impressive even during drier seasons.
Can you swim at Ithaca waterfalls?
Swimming is allowed at some locations during warmer months, including at Lower Falls in Robert H. Treman State Park and at Buttermilk Falls. Swimming rules vary by park, so it is always best to check posted signs.
Are Ithaca waterfalls open in winter?
Many waterfalls are accessible year round, but trail access changes in winter. Overlooks and short paths often remain open, while gorge trails with stone steps may close due to ice. Watkins Glen’s Gorge Trail closes in winter, though rim trails stay open.
How many waterfalls are in Ithaca?
Ithaca and the surrounding area are home to more than 150 waterfalls within about 10 miles. While visitors usually see only a handful on a short trip, there are far more hidden throughout the region than most people expect.
What are the closest airports to Ithaca, NY?
The closest airport is Ithaca Tompkins International Airport, located about 10 minutes from downtown Ithaca. It is the most convenient option, though flights can be limited or more expensive. These larger airports are common alternatives:
- Syracuse Hancock International Airport – about 1 hour 15 minutes away
- Elmira Corning Regional Airport – about 1 hour away
- Greater Rochester International Airport – about 2 hours away
Most visitors choose Syracuse or Elmira and rent a car. I flew into Syracuse for my trip, which offered more flight options and a straightforward drive to Ithaca.
Final Thoughts
Ithaca is one of those places that quietly surprises you, and by the end of the trip, I was already thinking about when I could come back. I had no idea this part of the country held so many waterfalls, gorge walks, and scenic views packed into such a small area.
Waterfalls are tucked right into town, across a college campus, and inside nearby state parks, so you do not need long or technical hikes to experience something impressive. You can stand at the base of Ithaca Falls within minutes, wander through gorges on Cornell’s campus, or decide how adventurous you want to be at places like Buttermilk Falls and Robert H. Treman.
That flexibility is what makes Ithaca special. You can build a trip around short walks and overlooks or spend full days on stair filled gorge trails, even with limited time. You can truly build your own adventure chasing waterfalls in Ithaca.
If you are planning your own visit, focus on a handful of key stops, stay flexible with weather and trail conditions, and leave room to slow down. Ithaca rewards lingering, especially when the sound of rushing water is never far away.
Still deciding whether to plan a trip?
👉Here are my 20 reasons Ithaca NY is worth visiting beyond just the waterfalls.
I hope you found this Best Waterfalls to Visit in Ithaca NY guide helpful for planning your trip. Drop me an email if you have any questions. TravelandTinsel@gmail.com I love to hear from readers.
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