Are you looking for an adventure in the Finger Lakes? Immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the best waterfalls in the Finger Lakes. Not only are the falls themselves picturesque, but you’ll enjoy incredible scenery all the way there. Lush greenery, breathtaking views, and towering cliffs will enhance your adventure! For even more ideas for a Hammondsport vacation, download our Destination Guide! Inside, you’ll find all of the top attractions and activities to enjoy while you’re here!
Best Waterfalls in the Finger Lakes
Taughannock Falls
This stunning waterfall in Taughannock Falls State Park is the perfect place to take in a beautiful waterfall from a spectacular vantage point. Dropping 215 feet down a rocky slope, this incredible waterfall is ideal for those looking for the perfect place to snap a picture after enjoying the hike up to the overlook. Be sure to take a moment to take in the beauty of this extraordinary place!
The park is located in Trumansburg, a little under an hour away, and offers easy access to Finger Lakes National Forest, so spend some time exploring the area for a full day of outdoor adventures!
Lick Brook Gorge
Take a look into the past of the earth at Lick Brook Gorge! Glaciers carved beautiful landscapes during the last ice age. You can see where the glacier has created multiple waterfalls and many rock formations today. The surrounding forest boasts many varieties of trees that complement the waterfalls and streams. Spend some time in this dreamy gorge and reconnect with nature!
Lick Brook Grorge is located near Taughannock Falls, about an hour away, so it’s an easy trip if you’re looking for a couple of waterfalls to see!
Tinker Falls and Labrador Hollow Unique Area
Tinker Falls and Labrador Hollow will take your breath away! The waterfall here has created an incredible capstone that visitors can take in. You can view the waterfall from different angles and enjoy the natural beauty from a different perspective. Pair the waterfall with the winter ice and snow, the spring and summer greenery, or the fall foliage. Even more interesting, the area around the waterfall has its microclimate, with unique plants surrounding the pond under the waterfall.
This waterfall is located a little farther away, about two hours, but the trip is worth it! Plan on spending a day exploring this area.
Buttermilk Falls State Park
Buttermilk Falls State Park offers a beautiful waterfall that flows down from Buttermilk Creek. The water seems to foam as it cascades down the waterfall, creating a unique and picturesque scene. Explore the scenic nature trails, swim in the pool at the bottom of the waterfall, or sit back and relax as you listen to the water! This park has plenty to see and do, so take advantage of it! Buttermilk Falls State Park is located a little over an hour away, so making a day trip is easy!
Bahar Nature Preserve and Carpenter Falls
Bahar Nature Preserve and Carpenter Falls offer an extraordinary waterfall cascading down into a pool surrounded by lush greenery with the backdrop of a rocky cliff. The waterfall is the centerpiece of an expansive area to explore. They feature hiking trails, overlooks, and even an observation platform. Recently, the preserve has improved its accessibility so all people can take in the beauty of this area.
Located an hour and 45 minutes away, this waterfall is a little farther, but it is worth the trip to hike and enjoy the extended area.
Watkins Glen State Park
Watkins Glen State Park is a truly stunning place to visit. The gorge features stunning waterfalls, flumes, and potholes. Traverse the winding paths and stone staircases and enjoy the seemingly endless beauty. Access points that blend into nature complement the park’s unique character. Be sure to snap as many pictures as you can in this spot!
This park is located near Seneca Lake, about 30 minutes away from Hammondsport, and offers easy access to other outdoor attractions, so take your time exploring the area!
Grimes Glen Park
Grimes Glen Park is a geological wonder. Take in the layers of rock dating back millions of years. There are two 60-foot waterfalls, rocky streams, pools to relax in, and endless areas to explore. The park is easily accessible from a nearby parking lot. Enjoy the perfect balance of exploration and convenience!
This waterfall is located a little closer to Hammondsport, 33 minutes away, so this is an easy activity to add to any day of your trip!
Filmore Glen State Park
This state park boasts five waterfalls ranging from 5-40 feet high. Each fall is different. There are Cascades, punchbowls, plunges, and chutes. The park offers year-round access, but the gorge trails are closed in the winter. This park gives you a little bit of everything.
This park is located an hour and 30 minutes away, so make a day out of visiting this waterfall.
Letchworth State Park
Letchworth State Park is truly magnificent! The Genesee River flows down three different waterfalls, some as high as 600 feet! Pair that with plenty of activities to enjoy. From whitewater rafting to snowmobiling, there is something for everyone to enjoy. You won’t want to miss this awe-inspiring gem!
Letchworth State Park is not too far away, about an hour, so this is a great place to spend the day enjoying several activities!
Stay at Hammondsport Hotel and Have Easy Access to These Stunning Waterfalls!
Now that you’ve discovered the best waterfalls in the Finger Lakes, stay with us! At The Hammondsport Hotel, our guests enjoy exceptional value. Our accommodations offer all the amenities you are looking for, from spacious beds designed for comfort to office and living areas to complement your stay. Dine with us at our on-site restaurant, Red Wing Bar & Chill, or plan your next corporate meeting and utilize our meeting and event spaces. End your day with us no matter what you’re looking for in a Finger Lakes escape!