If you love chasing waterfalls, western New York is where you need to be.
We’re talking misty trails, thundering drops, hidden cascades, and even a spot where fire and water hang out together (yep, seriously).
This road trip loop is packed with jaw-dropping views, unique surprises, and plenty of ‘whoa’ moments.
So toss those hiking shoes in the trunk, and get ready to explore some of the coolest waterfalls in western New York.
1. Eternal Flame Falls – Orchard Park
Eternal Flame Falls is a small but wild waterfall in Orchard Park, with a flame flickering behind the water thanks to natural gas seeping from the rocks.
It’s located in Chestnut Ridge Park, and getting there involves a short, muddy hike with some creek crossings, so bring shoes you don’t mind getting wet.
The coolest part? You can see fire and water together in the same spot, like nature pulled off its own party trick.
2. Middle Falls – Letchworth State Park
Next up is Middle Falls in Letchworth State Park, and wow—this one is massive.
It drops 107 feet with a loud, thundering roar and fills the air with mist, especially when the Genesee River rushes in spring.
There’s a perfect viewing area right across from it, so you can snap that gorgeous photo without breaking a sweat.
3. Wiscoy Falls – Portageville
If you’re looking for something a little more off-the-radar, Wiscoy Falls near Portageville is your spot.
It’s a multi-tiered waterfall near a quiet country road, where wide rock ledges form natural steps ideal for wading and splashing.
There’s no big visitor center or fancy signs here, just a peaceful, locals-only vibe and the sound of rushing water echoing through the trees.
4. Lower Falls – Stony Brook State Park
Lower Falls at Stony Brook State Park feels like a big adventure with its rocky gorge walls and shallow pools perfect for cooling off your feet.
While it’s one of three major falls in the park, this one feels the most intimate, like stumbling into a hidden spot few people know about.
The trail to get there winds through the woods and along stone bridges, making the journey just as fun as the waterfall waiting at the end.
5. High Falls – Rochester
High Falls in downtown Rochester is basically a massive waterfall right in the middle of an old industrial cityscape.
It crashes 96 feet into the Genesee River below, surrounded by brick buildings, old mills, and a pedestrian bridge with front-row views.
If you time it right, you might catch it glowing with colored lights at night.
6. Holley Canal Falls – Holley
For something unexpected, make your way to Holley Canal Falls, found in a small village park right off the Erie Canal in Holley.
It’s man-made but still super pretty, with water spilling over a wide stone wall and into a shady gorge that’s surprisingly dramatic.
There’s a cute covered bridge, picnic tables, and even a small cave to explore so it’s a great stop to stretch your legs and explore something new.
7. Akron Falls Park – Akron
Akron Falls Park features an incredibly bold 40-foot waterfall hidden inside its forested trails.
The falls crash over a jagged cliff into a rocky gorge, and the sound echoes through the trees so you’ll know when you’re nearby.
It’s super easy to reach from the parking lot, which means you can spend less time hiking and more time just soaking it all in.
8. Glen Park Water Falls – Williamsville
Make your way to Glen Park Water Falls in Williamsville, where the peaceful setting makes it hard to believe you’re still in the middle of town.
The falls are short and wide, tumbling over limestone ledges into a calm pond where ducks like to hang out.
There’s a paved path, pretty bridges, and benches all around, so it’s great for a lazy stroll or a quick coffee break with a waterfall view.
9. Niagara Falls
And of course, you can’t do a western New York waterfall loop without the absolute legend—Niagara Falls.
With Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil Falls pouring out 6 million cubic feet of water per minute, this trio of waterfalls is every bit as epic as you’d imagine.
Whether you board the Maid of the Mist or just want that spray-in-your-face view from the observation deck, this stop is the best New York has to offer.
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