The Finger Lakes region in New York is renowned for its stunning waterfalls and accessible hiking trails. This guide highlights the top easy waterfall hikes in the Finger Lakes, perfect for beginners, families, and nature enthusiasts. From short walks to scenic cascades, these trails offer breathtaking views without demanding strenuous effort.
What are the Best Easy Waterfall Hikes in the Finger Lakes?
1. Ithaca Falls Trail
- Trail Length: 0.2 miles out-and-back
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Estimated Hiking Time: Approximately 0.5 hours
- Waterfall Features: 150-foot cascading waterfall, region’s most powerful falls
Ithaca Falls Trail offers one of the easiest and most rewarding waterfall hikes in the Finger Lakes. The short dirt trail leads to a spectacular view of the 150-foot cascading waterfall, known as the region’s most powerful. While swimming is not allowed, the area is perfect for picnics and photography.
2. Buttermilk Falls State Park – Gorge Trail
- Trail Length: Approximately 1.5 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: Moderate, but mostly flat along the creek
- Estimated Hiking Time: About 1-2 hours
- Waterfall Features: Multiple waterfalls along the trail, main waterfall is 165 feet tall
The Gorge Trail at Buttermilk Falls State Park is a family-friendly hike that showcases multiple waterfalls. The main attraction is the 165-foot tall Buttermilk Falls, easily accessible from the parking lot. The trail features unique rock formations and offers swimming and picnic areas.
3. Taughannock Falls State Park – Gorge Trail
- Trail Length: 0.75 miles one way
- Elevation Gain: Minimal, mostly flat walk
- Estimated Hiking Time: Approximately 1 hour
- Waterfall Features: 215-foot plunge waterfall, taller than Niagara Falls
Taughannock Falls State Park offers an easy hike to one of the most impressive waterfalls in the region. The 215-foot plunge waterfall is surrounded by 400-foot cliffs, creating a dramatic landscape. The flat, well-maintained trail makes it accessible for hikers of all skill levels.
4. SheQuaGa Falls
- Trail Length: Essentially no hike, accessible from a small parking lot or street parking
- Elevation Gain: None
- Estimated Hiking Time: Less than 30 minutes
- Waterfall Features: 165-foot tumbling waterfall
SheQuaGa Falls, located in the village of Montour Falls, is one of the most accessible waterfalls in the Finger Lakes. With no hiking required, visitors can enjoy the 165-foot tumbling waterfall from a small parking lot or street parking.
5. Grimes Glen Park
- Trail Length: About 0.5 miles to the first waterfall
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Estimated Hiking Time: Approximately 1 hour
- Waterfall Features: Two 60-foot waterfalls
Grimes Glen Park offers a unique waterfall hiking experience. The trail requires walking in the creek bed to reach two 60-foot waterfalls. While accessible, hikers should be prepared to get their feet wet.
Which Waterfall Trails are Most Family-Friendly in the Finger Lakes?
- Buttermilk Falls State Park
- Accessibility: Easy to moderate
- Amenities: Restrooms, picnic areas, swimming areas
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Safety Features: Well-marked trails, accessible from parking lots
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Ithaca Falls
- Accessibility: Easy
- Amenities: Restrooms nearby, picnic areas, adjacent parking lot
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Safety Features: No swimming allowed, safe and short walk to the falls
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Taughannock Falls State Park
- Accessibility: Easy
- Amenities: Restrooms, picnic areas, parking lots
- Safety Features: Well-marked trails, caution required near cliffs and waterfalls
Are There Accessible Waterfall Hikes in the Finger Lakes?
- Ithaca Falls
- Trail Surface: Dirt, not paved
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Limited due to dirt trail, best view from Lake Street bridge
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Parking: Small lot adjacent to the falls, street parking available
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Buttermilk Falls State Park
- Trail Surface: Gravel and dirt trails
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Limited on Gorge Trail, main waterfall accessible from parking lot
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Parking: Ample parking lots near trailheads
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Fillmore Glen State Park
- Trail Surface: Gravel and dirt trails
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Cowsheds Falls universally accessible, rest of gorge requires steep climb
- Parking: Parking lots near trailheads
What are the Shortest Waterfall Hikes in the Finger Lakes?
- Ithaca Falls Trail
- Trailhead: Intersection of Falls and Lake Streets, Ithaca
- GPS: Approximately 42.4433° N, 76.5123° W
- Visitor Traffic: Moderate, busier on weekends and summer
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Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer for full water flow
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SheQuaGa Falls
- Location: Village of Montour Falls
- GPS: Approximately 42.3467° N, 76.8473° W
- Visitor Traffic: Low to moderate
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Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer for full water flow
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Grimes Glen Park
- Trailhead: Parking area near Grimes Creek
- GPS: Approximately 42.6233° N, 77.2833° W
- Visitor Traffic: Moderate, busier on weekends and summer
- Best Time to Visit: Spring for full water flow, caution during runoff
Easy Waterfall Hikes Finger Lakes: Comparison Table
| Trail Name | Length | Difficulty | Main Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ithaca Falls | 0.2 miles | Easy | 150-foot cascade |
| Buttermilk Falls | 1.5 miles | Easy-Moderate | Multiple falls, 165-foot main fall |
| Taughannock Falls | 0.75 miles | Easy | 215-foot plunge waterfall |
| SheQuaGa Falls | No hike | Very Easy | 165-foot tumbling waterfall |
| Grimes Glen | 0.5 miles | Easy-Moderate | Two 60-foot waterfalls |
These easy waterfall hikes in the Finger Lakes offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and accessibility. Whether you’re a beginner hiker, traveling with family, or looking for a quick nature escape, these trails provide unforgettable experiences without demanding extensive hiking skills or endurance.
Remember to always check trail conditions before your visit, especially after heavy rains or during spring runoff. Respect nature, follow park rules, and leave no trace to help preserve these beautiful natural wonders for future generations.