Out-of-state tourists might not know New York for its astounding outdoor adventures, but certain landmarks around upstate New York rival those of just about any other region of the country. One of them is Taughannock Falls State Park. The waterfall, which is the tallest plunge waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, is surrounded by a number of gorge trails that offer hikers some of the most spectacular views in the Northeast, and seeing the falls' beauty from the bottom of the gorge is absolutely worth the trip.
One of the most gorgeous waterfalls in the state of New York, Taughannock Falls, is enthralling at a level that keeps tourists and locals coming back time and time again to enjoy the striking views.
Hike all the way down to the base of the gorge, and you'll see why it's one of the most popular natural attractions in the region. The cliffs that rise more than 400 feet from the bottom of the gorge create a truly stunning atmosphere for hikers.
If you're looking to make a whole trip of it, this is the perfect destination; reserve a campsite near Cayuga Lake and relax after a day of hiking around the falls.
In the summer and fall, the bursts of color you'll see along the trails at the park and from the overlooks surrounding the falls make for an overwhelmingly beautiful scene.
While some of the park's trails are closed during the winter, the gorge trail remains open and is a great hike for those who want to experience the beauty of the falls when it's surrounded by ice. It makes for an incredible view!
The falls is actually the highest plunge waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains at 215 feet! The drop is about 400 feet from the top of the surrounding cliffs, and a truly breathtaking sight.
Whether you're looking to hike, ski, or snowshoe, the trails at this remarkable state park are a treat for anyone who chooses to embark on this fantastic New York adventure. Just make sure to be careful if you choose to hit the open trails in the winter.
Luckily, Taughannock Falls is tucked away in one of the most fun areas in upstate New York: Cayuga Lake! Enjoy a few days of camping, plan an afternoon exploration of Ithaca or, go on a wine trail tour of some of the best wineries in the Finger Lakes.
Have you visited Taughannock Falls? We'd love to hear about your experiences in the comments!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!