The Empire State is full of natural wonders, so many in fact that we've even put together an epic road trip for you to visit some of them. One of the best parts about visiting New York's natural wonders is that they take you away from it all, but this can often mean that you'll be required to do a bit hiking that not everyone is up to. So if you're looking for an adventure that won't tire you out or take up all of your day, then try visiting one of these amazing natural wonders that are hiding right in plain sight.
1. Shequaga Falls
There's no denying that New York is a total waterfall wonderland, but the majority of these natural wonders are tucked away within secluded areas of our state that will require some hiking. But that can't be said for the beautiful Shequaga Falls! Hiding right out in the open, this 150-foot waterfall passes underneath the Mill Street Bridge. Beautiful to see anytime of the year, the only workout you'll be putting into this adventure is walking along the small stretch of pavement that leads you from the street to the waterfall.
How to get here: The falls can be found right near the corner of South Genesee Street and West Main Street in the village of Montour Falls. To see the location on Google Maps, click here.
2. Niagara Falls
What some consider to be the greatest natural wonder of our state, Niagara Falls is an iconic location that we'll never grow tired of visiting. Open every day of the year, Niagara Falls State Park showcases the American Falls and gives a look at some of the country's most powerful waterfalls. To find out more information about this legendary park and waterfalls, click here.
How to get here: 332 Prospect Street Niagara Falls, NY 14303
3. Saratoga Geyser
Full of natural springs that are said to have various healing waters, Saratoga Spa State Park is where you'll find New York's jaw-dropping geyser spouter. Something all of our residents should see for themselves in person, you can find a parking lot just a handful of feet away from the geyser that will require little energy to reach. Visible from the road and amazing to see during summer, we're lucky to have such a beautiful sight right at our finger tips. To find out more information about the geyser, click here.
How to ge there: Geyser Loop Road (in Saratoga Spa State Park) Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
4. Cohoes Falls
Another waterfall you can spot from the road, Cohoes Falls is one of our state's most easily accessible waterfalls. Visiting Falls View Park is the perfect way to get outside without dedicating an entire day to strenuous adventure. Right along the Mohawk River in Albany County, the waterfall spans across a thousand feet and is roughly 90-feet tall. To find out more information about this spot and to see what it's like to visit, click here.
How to get here: 231-341 North Mohawk Street Cohoes, NY
5. Whiteface Mountain
If reaching the top of one of New York's High Peaks is an activity you never saw yourself completing, then guess again! The fifth-tallest mountain in our entire state, those looking to experience the summit of Whiteface Mountain will be happy to know that you can drive almost the entire way up the mountain. Giving you stunning views of the Adirondacks along Whiteface Memorial Highway, this adventure is one that's great for explorers of all ages. To find out more information, click here.
How to get here: Whiteface Memorial Highway, Wilmington NY 12997
6. Bastion Falls
A gorgeous natural wonder that those traveling along scenic Route 23A will be able to see from the road, Bastion Falls is basically the kid sister of Kaaterskill Falls. While it doesn't require much hiking, you will have to take a .05 mile long trail to reach Kaaterskill Falls. Lucky for you if you have zero interest in strapping on your hiking boots, you can simply enjoy Bastion Falls that's right at the trailhead for Kaaterskill Falls and just off of the road. To find out more information about how to get here, click here.
How to get here: Right off of Route 23A, you can view the location of Bastion Falls on Google Maps if you click here.
7. Skaneateles Lake
While each one of our Finger Lakes is a breathtaking natural wonder, Skaneateles Lake is the gem of this region that's known for having impressive clear and vibrant water. With the charming town of Skaneateles, you'll find there's a stunning pier that you can walk out onto in-between the Blue Water Grill and Clift Park! Taking you out onto the water where you'll have a panoramic view of the lake, this scenic spot is worthy of a day trip. To find out more information about Skaneateles Lake, click here.
How to get here: Just next to 11 West Genesee Street Skaneateles, NY 13152
8. Balanced Rock of North Salem
Not far from the Connecticut border is a unique natural wonder that has provoked the curiosity of New York residents for ages. The Balanced Rock in the small town of North Salem is considered by most to be a glacial erratic, with someone debating whether or not it has some kind of magical history behind it. A huge boulder balanced on top of four smaller rocks, the unusual piece of nature is just several feet away from Titicus Road.
How to get here: 667 Titicus Road North Salem, NY 10560
9. Prospect Mountain
If you loved the idea of driving up Whiteface Mountain, then you'll also be glad to hear that there's another mountain in the Adirondacks that offers the same feature. Right in the heart of Lake George, there's Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway which will bring you all the way from Route 9 to the top of the mountain. Giving you an amazing view of Lake George and the village below, there's no reason why you shouldn't cross this adventure off of your bucket list this summer! To find out more information, click here.
How to get here: Prospect Mountain Highway Lake George, NY 12845
How many of these places have you already visited? If you're looking for more adventures that won't requite any hiking, read about This Epic Zipline In New York That Will Take You On The Ride Of A Lifetime!
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