If you’re looking for a road trip with jaw-dropping views and plenty of “wow, is this real life?” moments, then get ready.
Today you’re about to chase some seriously epic waterfalls through New York’s Finger Lakes.
This region is packed with waterfalls that range from gentle, hidden cascades to thundering giants taller than Niagara.
Some are steps from the road, others make you work a bit—think creek-wading, stair-climbing fun—but every single one is worth the stop.
Along the way, you’ll find yourself walking behind shimmering curtains of water and standing at the base of massive cliffs.
Curious?
Buckle up, grab your camera, and let’s hit the road to discover the Finger Lakes’ most unforgettable waterfalls.
1. Delphi Falls
Delphi Falls, tucked away in a quiet corner of Madison County, is a hidden gem featuring two stunning waterfalls surrounded by lush green woodland.
The lower falls is 62 feet tall while the upper falls are just as impressive at 54 feet tall.
Located just southeast of Syracuse, this park is a recent addition to the public, opening in August 2018 after being privately owned for years.
The best part?
You can get close to the falls through a stone dust path for that perfect misty selfie.
With picnic tables and walking paths nearby, it’s the ideal spot to stretch your legs and soak in some seriously gorgeous views.
Just remember to stay on designated trails, as swimming isn’t permitted here.
Since opening to the public it’s quickly become a favorite stop for anyone chasing wateralls in the Finger Lakes area.
2. Carpenter Falls
Next up, get ready for Carpenter Falls, a scenic cascade just a short drive from Skaneateles Lake.
This 90-foot waterfall crashes dramatically over a rocky ledge, and the trail here takes you to the edge of the falls.
You’ll find an elevated boardwalk leading to an observation platform for safe and accessible viewing.
Beyond the platform, you may encounter some steep, muddy spots that’ll make you feel like a true waterfall explorer—just be prepared for potentially slippery terrain, especially after rain.
What makes Carpenter Falls extra special?
The water plunges into a gorge surrounded by thick, mossy cliffs, giving it a rugged, untamed vibe.
It feels worlds away from the charming lake town just minutes down the road.
3. Cow Shed Falls, Fillmore Glen State Park
Now let’s talk about Cow Shed Falls (also known as First Falls), the star of Fillmore Glen State Park near Moravia—and yep, it really is named after a cow shed.
This picturesque waterfall flows gently over a wide rock ledge, with an overhanging cliff that once gave cows a spot to shelter from storms.
These days, it’s humans who get to enjoy the cool mist and peaceful atmosphere.
A scenic bridge nearby makes it easy to snap a postcard-perfect photo of the falls against the park’s dramatic, tree-lined gorge.
There is also some wheelchair accessibility here, so more people can enjoy Cow Shed Falls, however the other falls in the park are less accessible.
4. Ithaca Falls
Next stop: Ithaca Falls, a jaw-dropping, 150-foot cascade right in the heart of Ithaca, just a stone’s throw from downtown.
This powerhouse waterfall roars down a rocky cliff along Fall Creek.
There’s an easy-access viewing area that makes it perfect for a quick photo op—no hiking boots required.
Back in the day, this area was home to a bustling mill industry, but today it’s all about soaking in the natural beauty while the mist from the falls cools you off on a hot summer day.
5. Lucifer Falls
And now, get ready for Lucifer Falls in Robert H. Treman State Park—a waterfall so epic it feels like nature was just showing off.
This 115-foot stunner tumbles down a layered rock staircase, with the gorge trail offering jaw-dropping views from both the top and bottom.
Warning: Your calves might complain, but the views are 100% worth it.
As you hike past the dramatic cliffs and swirling pools, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into some ancient, wild canyon.
Except here, you can finish your adventure with a refreshing dip in the park’s lifeguarded swimming area at the base of Enfield Falls (another impressive waterfall in the park).
6. Taughannock Falls
Next up is Taughannock Falls, the heavyweight champion of Finger Lakes waterfalls, towering an incredible 215 feet above the gorge floor.
That makes it taller than Niagara Falls—yep, seriously.
The easy, flat Gorge Trail leads right to the base, letting you walk right up to this massive curtain of water without breaking a sweat.
Whether you’re standing at the overlook or feeling the mist at the bottom, the sheer power and height of Taughannock make it a waterfall you won’t forget anytime soon.
7. Oak Tree Falls
And just when you think you’ve seen it all, Oak Tree Falls in Seneca County comes along to surprise you.
This lesser-known gem spills gracefully over a rocky ledge, surrounded by lush woods that make the whole area feel like a secret forest hideout.
Since the falls are on private property just off Rt 89 and Weyers Point Rd you can’t get too close.
If you visit in the winter you’ll have a better chance of seeing it through the trees since fewer leaves will be covering the view.
Access to the falls requires a creek walk up Groves Creek, and the falls are situated on private property, so pay attention to any signage and avoid trespassing.
8. Hector Falls
And then there’s Hector Falls, a roadside showstopper just north of Watkins Glen that’ll have you pulling over before you can even say, “Wait, is that a waterfall?”
This impressive cascade stretches over 165 feet, with multiple sections.
The upper portion, about 50 feet tall, is visible right from Route 414—no hiking required—while the lower falls spill dramatically into Seneca Lake below.
If you’re cruising by on a boat, you’ll get a front-row seat to the lower falls as they crash down the cliffs.
Hector Falls is definitely one of the Finger Lakes’ most unforgettable waterfalls that you can’t afford to miss.
9. Shequaga Falls
Next up: Shequaga Falls in Montour Falls, where nature’s power is on full display—right in the middle of a residential neighborhood.
This 156-foot waterfall plunges straight down a sheer rock face, creating a dramatic backdrop just steps from the sidewalk (seriously, you can park your car and be there in seconds).
With charming homes framing the scene and a cozy park at the base, it feels like a secret oasis hiding in plain sight.
10. Rainbow Falls, Watkins Glen State Park
Prepare to have your mind blown at Rainbow Falls in Watkins Glen State Park—easily one of the most magical spots in the Finger Lakes.
Here, the water gracefully streams over mossy cliffs and delicate stone ledges, creating a shimmering, curtain-like effect that looks straight out of a fantasy movie.
Walk along the stone bridge that passes right behind the falls, and if you time it right on a sunny day, you’ll catch the rainbow that gives this stunning waterfall its name.
11. Seneca Mills Falls
Next up is Seneca Mills Falls, a picturesque waterfall along the Keuka Outlet Trail that mixes natural beauty with a bit of Finger Lakes history.
This wide, rushing waterfall once powered an old grist mill back in the 1800s, and you can still spot some of the stone ruins peeking through the trees as the water tumbles down.
The best way to see it?
Hop on a bike or take a leisurely walk along the shaded trail, where the sounds of the falls and the occasional glimpse of wildlife make for a perfect nature break.
12. Grimes Glen Park
Last stop: Grimes Glen Park in Naples, where chasing waterfalls turns into a full-on adventure.
There are 2 main waterfalls here with a few other small cascades.
The first main waterfall is a steep 62-footer that you can stand right at the base of.
The next one is just under 60 feet tall, and this is where most people will turn back towards the parking lot.
Getting to this tucked-away spot means splashing through a shallow creek—yep, your feet will get wet, and that’s half the fun.
There is another tall 50-foot waterfall hidden further into the park, but access to this is risky and limited.
Bring some sturdy water shoes, embrace the creekbed challenge, and don’t miss the second waterfall.
The mossy cliffs and cool, misty air make it feel like a hidden jungle in the heart of wine country.
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