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Nature|Waterfalls

This Underrated State Park In New York Is Home To Twelve Waterfalls

Robert H. Treman State Park in Ithaca, New York, is renowned for its 12 stunning waterfalls and extensive hiking trails.

Published Sep 14, 2021

Written by 

Lisa Sammons

With 180 state parks and 22 national parks in New York, it can be tough to see them all. They're all beautiful, but money and time constraints can make it difficult to see them all. One park in Ithaca that is absolutely stunning is Robert H. Treman State Park. If you like woods or waterfalls, this is the spot for you! Boasting 12 waterfalls, this state park is a must-visit for waterfall chasers in the Empire State.

This 1,100-acre New York state park is named after the man who purchased the land and donated it to the state in 1920. Treman and his wife planted over 1,000 trees around the area.

A stone bridge arches over a calm stream, surrounded by lush green trees and a serene natural landscape.
Used Gray Matter/Google Maps

Looking for trails? There are plenty here! Most of the trails are inaccessible in the winter due to icy conditions, but there are many to enjoy throughout the rest of the year.

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A winding path through a lush green forest with tall trees and vibrant undergrowth.
Brad Benjamin/Google Maps

Trails range from quick 0.5-mile loops all the way up to more difficult 25-mile treks.

The park's main draw are its absolutely incredible waterfalls. With a dozen here, there are plenty to enjoy! Lower Falls (also known as Enfield Falls) is the most easily-accessed and even has a swimming area with a lifeguard on duty in warmer months.

A scenic waterfall cascades into a swimming area, with people enjoying the water surrounded by lush greenery.
Hong Mei/Google Maps

Lucifer Falls is the most incredible of all the park's falls. This 115-foot wonder is one of the largest in the Finger Lakes region. Its unusual name is thought to be a mispronunciation of the original Iroquois name.

A serene waterfall cascades through rocky cliffs, surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage and lush green trees.
Andy Arthur/Flickr

There are plenty of spots within the park for camping, with lots of RV and tent sites. Fishing and hunting are other popular activities enjoyed here.

A serene river flows over rocks, surrounded by lush green trees and a rocky cliff in the background.
Barbie Richer/Google Maps

Taking a loop through the park will let you see many of the waterfalls right from the trail. These are incredible views you won't want to miss!

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A serene waterfall cascades down rocky cliffs, surrounded by lush greenery and a calm river below.
J. Maughn/Flickr

Have you visited this stunning state park in New York? Did you know about this New York park with 12 waterfalls?! New York really is full of beautiful wonders!

You can find out more information about Robert H. Treman State Park from the New York Parks website. AllTrails is a great resource for information about the park's trails.

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Nature|Hiking

The Stunning Top-Secret Natural Spring in New York Nobody’s Ever Heard of

The best hidden waterfall in New York is found in a small Central New York wilderness along a challenging but beautiful trail.

Published Sep 28, 2024

Written by 

Raymond Goldfield

New York's waterfalls and springs are famous around the world - especially when you talk about a certain one up north! But New York is actually a big state, and there are some fascinating spots far off the beaten path that are well-worth exploring. You just might have to put some work into getting there. I was surprised to find the best-hidden waterfall in New York was located near the tiny town of North Creek, in the little-known Siamese Ponds Wilderness. That's where you'll find the Shanty Brook Trail, a 1.3-mile trail rated moderate. While it's a short trail, it does pack some unique challenges into its half-hour hike - but we think it's well worth the challenge.

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A narrow, muddy path through a lush, green forest with trees and underbrush on either side.
Joe Helt/AllTrails

The Shanty Brook Trail is one of New York's hidden gems, found in a deeply remote area of the state with no major towns around. While it's rated moderate, it will require you to venture off well-maintained trails and into some challenging terrain.

A flowing river surrounded by lush greenery and trees, with gentle ripples on the water's surface.
Joe Helt/AllTrails

The most challenging part of this trail comes right at the start, as you'll have to cross the Sacandaga River. This is usually a fairly slow-moving and shallow river, so all you'll need is a good pair of wading boots - but be careful to not take this trail after heavy rain.

A serene waterfall cascades over rocks into a tranquil pool, surrounded by lush green trees and foliage.
Han Ng/AllTrails

From there, it's a quick but challenging hike uphill until you reach the titular Shanty Brook - a twelve-foot waterfall that makes for amazing photo opportunities. The best part is that the challenging approach means you'll likely have this area all to yourself.

A serene waterfall cascades over rocky terrain, surrounded by lush green trees in a peaceful forest setting.
Chris Caprood/AllTrails

Although far from New York's tallest waterfall, the Shanty Brook Waterfall is an incredible sight and can be walked right up to. While this isn't a suitable place for swimming, it is a great place to cool off before heading back!

A small waterfall cascades over rocky terrain into a serene pool, surrounded by lush green trees in a forest setting.
Chris Caprood/AllTrails

There are actually eighteen trails in the immediate area of the wilderness, many moderately challenging and remote, making exploring this area this the perfect day of adventure.

Have you hiked the Shanty Brook Trail to see this magical hidden waterfall in New York? Let us know about your hike in the comments section, and you can visit the AllTrails trail listing for more details and pictures. If you want to know more about the Siamese Ponds Wilderness, check out its page on the NY DEC website. This is the kind of hike AllTrails + was made for - the point-by-point directions are incredibly useful in a remote, fast-paced hike like this. And if you're looking for a memorable stay in the area, this Victorian-style B&B is about an hour away in the Lake George area.

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Nature|Waterfalls

The High Falls Trail Is One Of The Best Waterfall Hikes In New York

Published Jul 6, 2024

Written by 

Courtnie Erickson

New York is home to extraordinary natural features. However, some of my personal favorites are the falls that dot the state. High Falls is one of these gorgeous New York waterfalls. It is lesser-known, quiet, and beautiful. It’s a picture-perfect destination for a day outdoors. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab some water, and get ready to experience one of the best waterfall hikes in New York.

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Tucked away in the Titusville Mountain State Forest and just a short drive from Owls Head is the trailhead to High Falls. This New York waterfall hike needs to be on your itinerary when you find yourself in the area.

Sign for Titusville Mt. State Forest High Falls, New York, surrounded by lush green trees.
Scott Childs/AllTrails

Keep in mind that a four-wheel-drive vehicle is strongly recommended to reach the trailhead. The trail is located off County Highway 27 and Barnesville Road near Owls Head.

The hike to reach this gorgeous waterfall is approximately 1.6 miles. It is an out-and-back trail with slight elevation gain but it’s considered quite easy. Beginning hikers and even those with little legs can complete this trail.

A rushing river flows over rocky terrain, surrounded by lush green trees in a serene forest setting.
Zack Taylor/AllTrails

As you trek through the forest, you’ll feel like you are far away from the cares of the world — and you just might be. This is a lesser-known trail and it’s not uncommon to find yourself alone on your journey. Enjoy the solitude of this outdoor destination.

A serene forest scene featuring a flowing creek surrounded by lush greenery and large rocks.
Aaron Watson/AllTrails

While the trail’s distance isn’t long, it sure is beautiful. Stop to admire the rushing streams and the vegetation growing along the path. Just make sure you are respectful of every remarkable creation. Always leave the trail better than when you found it.

A close-up of a fallen log in a forest, featuring yellow mushrooms growing on its side.
Paul Gosh/AllTrails

You will need to watch your feet on portions of this trail. You will trek over wooden bridges and there are some steps you will need to climb.

A person and a child walk down a forest trail, crossing a small wooden bridge surrounded by trees and greenery.
Aaron Watson/AllTrails

However, every step will be worth it once you reach the waterfall. High Falls may not be the largest waterfall in New York but it is certainly impressive. Give yourself time to sit back and enjoy the sounds of the flowing water and admire the beauty of the area.

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A serene waterfall cascades over rocks, surrounded by lush green trees and dappled sunlight.
Jake MacDougal/AllTrails

You may even want to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy your time here — it truly is breathtaking.

A serene waterfall cascades over rocks, surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage and lush green trees.
Hannah With Marshall/AllTrails

The trek to High Falls should be on your bucket list every season throughout the year. The vibrant fall foliage makes this a stunning masterpiece in the autumn, and in the winter, the frozen falls create the ultimate snowshoeing destination. Keep in mind that the spring months can be muddy so come prepared.

A snowy landscape featuring a waterfall cascading over ice and rocks, surrounded by trees.
Scott Childs/AllTrails

For more information on High Falls in New York, visit AllTrails. Consider downloading AllTrails+ as well for the ability to download trail maps, to know trail conditions before you go, and more.

Have you ever hiked to High Falls in New York? What are some of your favorite waterfall hikes in New York? Let us know in the comments.

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