Taughannock Falls State Park is home to the gorgeous Gorge Trail for hiking and one sensational waterfall. In fact, this is one of the prettiest waterfalls I've ever seen (and I'm quite literally from the "City of Waterfalls"!). If you find yourself visiting the Finger Lakes or Watkins Glen (especially if you loved the Watkins Glen Gorge at Watkins Glen State Park), you need to plan a detour to Taughannock Falls.
Taughannock Falls State Park is located just outside of Ithaca in the village of Ulysses, New York. The park is nestled up to the edge of Cayuga Lake, one of the Finger Lakes. This waterfall offers a big payoff for very little work. You don't need to walk far to witness its beauty. Plus, this beautiful waterfall, hiking trail, and state park are open year round.
In this Taughannock Falls State Park guide, I'll show you how to plan your visit to the park, what to expect, and some interesting facts about Taughannock Falls itself. This waterfall needs to be at the top of your list if you're planning a trip to Ithaca or the Finger Lakes Region. It's spectacular!
Taughannock Falls Gorge Trail: An Easy Waterfall Hike
The Gorge Trail is the best trail to hike at Taughannock Falls. It is an easy, relatively flat jaunt from the parking lot to the main attraction, the falls itself. Before you venture out on your journey, I suggest that you familiarize yourself with this parks map showing all of the trails, parking areas, and waterfalls. You can even save it to your phone for future reference.
The Lower Falls
As we approached the Gorge Trail, we noticed a small waterfall flowing over a few rocky ledges down to a shallow pond below. The main waterfall gradually flowed down to this tiny waterfall dubbed the "Lower Falls".
From there, the water of Taughannock Creek slowly flows back into Cayuga Lake (one of the Finger Lakes).
Hiking the Gorge Trail
The hike from the Gorge Trail to Taughannock Falls is only ¾ mile in length. It's only a short distance from the parking lot to the waterfall, and the terrain is quite flat. We saw many families with kids and dogs walking this main trail to the falls. In the spring, many wildflowers bloom along the Gorge Trail.
Beside the Gorge Trail, there's another flat, rocky ledge along the water. In the summer, this waterway is extremely shallow and it is possible to walk across the rocks. There isn't much shade there, so you may choose to stick to the trail on a hot day. The water here slowly flows towards the Lower Falls.
As we walked closer and closer towards the Falls, we could see imposing rocky cliffs across the shallow river. As we walked past rocky cliffs and approached Taughannock Falls, the water in the river got deeper. The gorge walls themselves are extremely high and very dramatic. Soon enough, you'll turn a corner and be able to witness this gorgeous waterfall for yourself.
More Hiking Trails at Taughannock Falls State Park
If you're a fan of hiking and the outdoors, there are several interconnecting nature trails at Taughannock Falls State Park. After you hike the gorge trail, be sure to walk the rim trails:
- Gorge Trail (¾ mile)
- South Rim Trail (1 ⅛ miles)
- North Rim Trail (1 ½ miles)
- Multi-use Trail (2 miles), for hiking and cross-country skiing in winter
Seeing the Spectacular Taughannock Falls
Taughannock Falls is the tallest free-falling waterfall east of the Mississippi. It's one of the most impressive waterfalls in the state. It plunges 215 feet down to the river below.
To give you a little perspective, Niagara Falls features a 167-foot vertical drop, making Taughannock quite a bit taller than Niagara. Of course, there's much more water at Niagara Falls than here, but that's still an impressive statistic. The cliffs themselves stretch about 400 feet above the gorge.
Taughannock Falls From the Gorge Trail
First and foremost, definitely check out Taughannock Falls from the Gorge Trail. It's the best way to view the waterfall right from the base of the falls. The falls are right at the end of the Gorge Trail.
We hopped over a short barrier to join the other visitors that had gathered at the base of the waterfall. It was quite misty and very refreshing on a warm day. It's brilliant that you can get right up close to the waterfall by standing at the bottom of the gorge.
Taughannock Falls Overlook
Next, you can venture over to the Taughannock Falls Overlook for another perspective of the waterfall. There is a small parking area at the overlook that might fill up, but there is a quick turnover as many people stop for a peek and leave after a few minutes. View Taughannock Falls surrounded by the natural amphitheater of the gorge and snap a few photos while you're there.
The parking lot at the Taughannock Falls Overlook is free for an hour. So, if you want to take a quick look at the waterfall for free, you can do so. There's no hiking involved here, only spectacular views. I do recommend that you pay the parking rate and take the short walk on the Gorge Trail to the waterfall, too.
Plan Your Visit to Taughannock Falls
Here are some tips and tricks to help you plan your visit to Taughannock Falls State Park. The state park is open from dawn to dusk, 365 days a year.
Taughannock Falls State Park Parking
There is no entrance fee to walk into the park and admission fee per person. However, there is a $9 charge per vehicle for parking. You can use your parking ticket to gain entry to any other New York state parks that same day. That means you can park at the nearby Buttermilk Falls State Park and Robert H. Treman State Park on the same day for free.
It was busier when we visited in June, and the smaller main parking lot was full. There's a huge overflow parking lot across the street that has ample parking. You should be able to park there without any issues. The parking fee is $9 for either lot.
Other Activities (Swimming and Camping)
You can go swimming here from July 1st until Labor Day between 11:00am and 7:00pm. There is a swimming area to enjoy, as well as picnic areas. Camping season happens from mid-April until mid-October, and you can book campsites and cabins in advance. This is also a boat launch site.
In addition, there's a local outfitter, Paddle-N-More, that offers kayaking and paddleboarding introductory lessons on Cayuga Lake at Taughannock Falls State Park. They also offer kayak, canoe, and SUP rentals on an hourly and half day basis.
When to Visit
When is the best time to visit? You can visit all year long, 365 days a year. Like many waterfalls in New York State, it's best to visit in the spring. With the winter snow melt and rainfall, the water will be flowing at its best. Taughannock Falls tends to dry up during the summer months, so don't be surprised if you visit and don't see much of a waterfall!
The fall season can be pretty, but I'd wait until a heavier rainfall to visit. And in the winter, this beauty looks so pretty as it freezes, surrounded by snow and ice.
Where to Stay Near Taughannock Falls
If you're looking to be close to the waterfall and close to many other natural spaces, be sure to stay in Ithaca. There are also lots of great restaurants, cafes, and shops in town, too. There's also an accommodation right on the edge of Taughannock Falls State Park in Trumansburg.
Inn at Taughannock Falls
The Inn at Taughannock Falls is as close as you can to the waterfall, and it's only a short walk to the beach at Cayuga Lake, too. This estate property has a historic 1873 Victorian home and four other buildings. Many units overlook Cayuga Lake and some have balconies as well. You can walk right up to Taughannock Falls from a trail that starts at this majestic Victorian inn.
Ithaca Marriott Downtown on the Commons
For a property right in the middle of downtown Ithaca, the best place to stay is the Ithaca Marriot Downtown on the Commons. This is a clean and modern hotel with tons of amenities, plus you can walk anywhere in downtown Ithaca from the hotel. There's an on-site bar and restaurant for breakfast and dinner.
More Places to Stay in Ithaca
There are lots of great hotels and properties in Ithaca. If you're looking to compare price points, locations, and more, we suggest using this handy map below to find the perfect place to stay.
Getting There
To visit Taughannock Falls State Park and the Finger Lakes region of New York, you can fly into the Syracuse Hancock International Airport. Many destinations around the USA provide direct flights to Syracuse. Here is where you can find many cheap flights to Syracuse.
If you want to visit one or even several waterfalls in New York State, I highly recommend that you rent a car to get around. Many parks are only accessible by car, and you can visit on your own time and at your own pace. Pick up a rental car in Syracuse to reach Ithaca and the Finger Lakes. You can compare car rental prices here to find the best deal.
If you're staying in Ithaca and don't have a car, there aren't any modes of public transportation that travel to Taughannock Falls. However, it takes about an hour to ride a bike to the waterfall (two hours return). You might be able to attempt using a ridesharing service from Ithaca, though I wouldn't want you to be somehow stranded if no one came back to get you.
More Things to Do in the Finger Lakes
Don't miss Taughannock Falls - it's one of the most outstanding natural attractions of the northeast. There's so much more to see in this region, too. As I've traveled to the Finger Lakes on several occasions, I've written a variety of travel blog posts to help you plan your trip. Here are some of my favorite things to do in the Finger Lakes.
| Follow Justin Plus Lauren: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Join our Travel Community |
Stacey Veikalas says
This is just beautiful and a place I had never heard of! Gorgeous and looks like a great way to spend the day - especially for a hot day in the summer! thank you for writing so beautiful!!
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
Oh, it was really refreshing, the mist from the waterfall!!
Ashley Hubbard says
Beautiful falls and park! I'd love to visit here. I'm always amazed by waterfalls and this one looks amazing!
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
It was a beautiful place! Maybe you will get to visit there on your huge USA road trip!! :)
Adelina | Pack Me To says
It's hard to imagine falls bigger than Niagara. They must really be massive in real life.
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
It really was! Hard to tell in the photo...but it was one TALL waterfall!
Chris Boothman says
I am a real sucker for waterfalls so you can pretty much guarantee that I have added Taughannock Falls to our bucket list. Not sure exactly what it is about the natural phenomena of waterfalls, maybe it's just because they are so relaxing to watch as the water crashes over the edge and the sound is very soothing.
This likely doesn't receive as much attention as Niagara given that they are both in NY but this is equally as stunning in its own right and deservedly should get visitors to explore this state park! Thanks for sharing and we look forward to visiting ourselves.
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
I hope that you get out there sometime - so many waterfalls in New York State! If you ever come up into the Southern Ontario area where we are from, first of all, we can meet up for lunch! :) And I can show you some waterfalls in our neck of the woods that are awesome, too! Maybe I will get around to posting about them sometime!
slightly astray says
Wow, beautiful! I never knew that there were so many beautiful natural sites in New York! This is one tall waterfall!
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
It is amazing because I find it isn't that well publicized how many natural sites there are in New York state! Hope we can inspire some people to visit there!
LovePuffin Travels says
This looks incredible!! I just recently visited Helmcken Falls in Wells Gray Provincial Park in Canada - that was the best falls I've seen in a while. Also love Iguasu Falls in Argentina and Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia. LOVE a good waterfall! Lovely to find your adventures, hope to follow along!
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
Ooh I've never heard of Helmcken Falls, I will have to look that one up! Thanks for sharing!
Alli says
I love how adventurous and outdoorsy all your posts are. This waterfall is gorgeous! As is the lush green hiking trails!
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
It was a really special place to visit and I'm glad you enjoyed our post!
The Crowded Planet says
Amazing place! Just shows how little I know about upstate NY... your posts never cease to amaze me!
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
I'm glad that we helped you to learn something new about the area! :)
Antonette Spaan says
This would be a great place for a daytrip. The Taughannock Falls are just gorgeous and would be a perfect place just to sit down and admire for a while.
CarmensTravelTips says
Beautiful waterfall. What a great place to go spend the day.
Christa Thompson says
Good stuff! I am from the Adirondack Mountains in New York state and there are many stunning sites like this. So many people are unaware of just how beautiful the state is. When I was a child, we would hike to hidden waterfalls all the time, swim in creeks, and roll down giant hillsides. I miss NY, but I love the beach too. I've lived in Florida for a while now. It was nice to relive this one. Thanks for writing it!
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
I've heard about how beautiful the Adirondack Mountains are! That would be a great place to live! Of course, Florida is really nice too - gotta love the beach! It's nice you've been able to enjoy the best of both worlds so far!
Hannah Logan says
So pretty! And what a perfect looking day to enjoy it. Love your photos, especially those of the waterfall! And happy belated birthday!
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
Thank you so much, Hannah! It was a beautiful day outside, we were very lucky!
Mrs Chasing the Donkey says
Ohh nice one guys. This looks so great, that video is awesome. Big thanks for joining us for #SundayTraveler once again.
And nice new header :)
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
Thank you! It took me quite a while to get the header right last night :) LOL anyone who came to the blog last night may have seen a few random ones up there as I was testing them out!
Megan Claire says
Wow this looks amazing! We're actually heading to NY next week so will definitely set aside some time for this! Thanks!!
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
You should definitely try to visit this place, as well as the Watkins Glen Gorge that I wrote about in another post...and I'm going to be writing about another place in an upcoming post so you can see that one, too! :)
Jenn @ Two Weeks in Costa Rica says
Who knew that such a beautiful waterfall existed in NY? Next time I visit friends up that way, I'm making them take me there! Nice job getting the pics to show the mammoth scale of the falls- sometimes scale can be so hard to capture in a photo.
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
You definitely have to visit! I didn't expect such a huge waterfall to be there either!
veganinbrighton says
What an incredibly beautiful place to spend your birthday. I really need to visit Upstate NY again, we were road tripping from NYC to Chicago last time so we didn't have anywhere near enough time to check out everything the area has to offer.
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
You'll have to go back and visit Farm Sanctuary again anyway, so while you're at it, there are a few more places to stop :) And if you do come up through Toronto, let me know!
Freya says
Looks like a stunning place for a hike. Very impressive waterfalls. Great shots
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
Thank you so much! It was a great little walk for a big pay-off, great view of the waterfall!
Ming @OnALim1 says
All that lush greenery caught my eye as well! I love the summer time in North America.
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
Oh yes, it was a really nice walk through the forest, too!
Sabina says
"This park looks absolutely stunning," I thought and then I saw the waterfalls. Absolutely incredible!
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
Thank you! It was a nice walk even without the waterfall, and then that was the icing on the cake!
Corinne Vail says
Justin and Lauren, Upstate NY has so many beautiful places to visit, and who doesn't love a waterfall, especially in the heat of summer! Love it!
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
We were amazed by the amount of beautiful places to visit there! And there's still more waiting for us when we return sometime!
BavarianSojourn says
What an amazing place. That water fall is incredible! :)
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
Thank you for stopping by! I couldn't get enough of the view!
Karyn @ Not Done Travelling says
Wow, those falls look impressive! Is this one of the ones that is open in wintertime?
Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren says
I'm not 100% because I haven't looked it up, but I'm pretty sure I did hear someone mention that it looked really cool in the winter! So I will keep my fingers crossed for you that it is!