1. Taughannock Falls
One of Ithaca’s most iconic waterfalls Taughannock Falls towers at 215 feet tall, more than 50 feet taller than Niagara Falls. This stunning waterfall is about a 15-minute drive up the west shore of Cayuga Lake from downtown Ithaca. This must-see waterfall can be seen from 2 different locations, an overlook by accessing the state park road on the north shore of Taughannock Falls State Park, where you can park for free at the overlook and take a great photo of the waterfall. The other option is to park at the bottom of the park, which costs $8 during the warm months, and hike an easy mile to the waterfall where you get to go to the base of the falls. Taughannock waterfall is unique, with a towering bowl-like canyon surrounding you. It is a very majestic waterfall that is a must-do when visiting Ithaca. Extra note, the gorge trail leading to the base of the falls is open year-round, so you can view the falls during all four seasons of the year.
2. Taughannock Upper Falls
Just a Short Drive up the north side road at Taughannock Falls State Park, there is a small dirt parking lot with a trail that will lead you to a bridge that has a great view of the upper falls. This quiet and less known waterfall dumps its water through a curved funnel-like water shoot into the canyon that leads to Taughannock Falls.
3. Ithaca Falls
Ithaca falls located just a few minute's drive from downtown, which is one of Ithaca's most well-known waterfalls. The last of 4 waterfalls on Fall Creek towers at 150 feet tall and 175 feet wide makes it just 17 feet short of the total height of Niagara Falls. This waterfall can be seen from the bridge on the road for those who cannot make the very short hike which is only about 300 feet up the canyon. After a short hike to the base, Ithaca falls will appear from the trees and you can begin to see and feel the sense of power this waterfall has. This is a great place to take photos with a group of friends as you can get right up beside the falls.
4. Wells Falls
Wells Falls, located on 6 Mile Creek near the Mulholland Wildflower Preserve one mile from the Ithaca Commons is a great short hike. After parking at the Wildflower Preserve, cross the bridge and follow the short hiking trail which will bring you down to the bottom of the falls. It's a great short hike on a beautiful day if you have a little bit of time to kill while visiting Ithaca.
5. Ludlowville Falls
A little bit north of Ithaca is Ludlowville Falls, another great waterfall that is a secret gem. About a 20-minute drive from the Ithaca Commons up the east side of Lake Cayuga will lead you to a small park with a gazebo, a covered structure, and charcoal grills which make a great place to pack a lunch, or grill up some hamburgers all while being able to see this beautiful waterfall. A place for pictures and views is visible from the end of the park which makes it great for those unable to hike down the path to the bottom of the waterfall.
6. Forest Falls
Forest Falls is third of four waterfalls on Fall Creek, which can be seen from the bridge on Stewart Ave, just up the creek from Ithaca Falls, while access is not possible to get down close to this waterfall, a great view of the Forest Falls and a view of the canyon that feeds the water to Ithaca falls can be seen.
7. Watkins Glen State Park
Watkins Glen State Park is famous for its mile-long waterfall hike, where you have access to walk along the canyon trail, through tunnels dug through the canyon walls, and even walk behind multiple waterfalls. This hike is a must for anyone visiting Ithaca or the finger lakes. While it is often very busy, pictures turn out beautiful here, even when taken on a cell phone. Prepare to climb up stars and make sure to wear shoes you don't mind getting wet or a little dirty as parts of your walk will be on wet ground from the waterfalls. Parking on a busy day can be hard but access to the park is free, and after hiking the trail a bus can take you back to your starting point for $4/person. If you aren’t into climbing upstairs, feel free to start at the top of the trail, this way you only have to walk down, and at the end of the trail take the bus back up to your car. Keep in mind that the gorge trail is only open seasonally during the warm months, so make sure to call and make sure they are open if traveling to the finger lakes region in late fall or early spring.
8. Aunt Sarah's Falls
Aunt Sarah’s Falls located just south of Watkins Glen State Park is a great quick stop after visiting the state park. This waterfall wouldn't even require getting out of the car if it’s raining or you are in a hurry. This can be viewed right from the road, and another example of one of the finger lakes great photographic waterfalls.
9. Shequaga Falls
A small public park south of Watkins Glen State Park reveals this large waterfall that empties into a shallow basin. A great stop for those who want to see a waterfall without any hiking involved, great for those in wheelchairs or using walkers.
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