Visiting waterfalls is a much-loved activity of many Rochesterians, and being surrounded by the Great Lakes, Finger Lakes, and waterways gives us an ample opportunities to explore. We can travel just a few minutes from home to see spectacular sights and create core memories with our families. Below, we’ve compiled some of our favorite waterfall destinations for you that are a day-trip or closer to the Rochester area.
Please note that the waterfalls have varying levels of sightseeing, hiking, and lifeguarding. Make sure that the waterfalls you visit are a good fit for the season your family is currently in.
High Falls
0 minute drive from downtown
High Falls, at the center of Downtown Rochester, is an awesome sight to see. The urban waterfall can be viewed against the backdrop of historic buildings, active train tracks, and the downtown cityscape.
High Falls: A Choose Your Own Adventure Experience
High Falls is the centerpiece of the City of Rochester. My kids and I took advantage of a sunny day to explore this historic area, which can easily be viewed…
Read MoreCorbett’s Glen Nature Park
10 minute drive form downtown
Corbett’s Glenn Tunnel has a hidden little waterfall, tucked back in a Brighton neighborhood. Visitors may park along the sides of Glen Rd. and then walk through the tunnel to enjoy the falls and wander along the creek. There are a couple of picnic tables and trails for you to use. This is a unique setting in that it borders private property. The residents welcome visitors to Corbett’s Glenn, but ask that you respect their privacy by staying on the road and trails.
Holley Canal Falls
35 minute drive from downtown
Holley Canal Falls is a picturesque waterfall tucked in a sweet little park in the Village of Holley. The beautiful cascade attracts locals who are looking for family pictures, picnics, easy hiking, and fishing.
Letchworth State Park
48 minute drive from downtown
Letchworth State Park is known as the “Grand Canyon of the East”, and for good reason. The Genesee River has carved out a deep canyon through the park that includes three magnificent waterfalls. This is a must-see for its beauty, but visitors return for the park’s many amenities and events.
The Autism Nature Trail at Letchworth State Park
Letchworth State Park is known as the “Grand Canyon of the East”. It is full of history, science, and recreation; all nested among spectacular views. There are more than 20…
Read MoreStony Brook State Park
57 minute drive from downtown
Stony Brook State Park is just a stone’s throw from Rochester and has great hiking trails lined with waterfalls. A favorite feature of the park is the stream-fed pool carved out to create a natural swimming hole.
Niagara Falls State Park
1 hour and 31 minute drive from downtown
Niagara Falls is known worldwide for the sheer amount of water that flows over it every second. We are lucky enough to live just a short drive from this natural wonder.
Day Trip to Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls attracts millions of people from all over the world, and we are lucky enough to live just a short drive away. While the Canadian side gets a lot…
Read MoreGrimes Glen
1 hour and 2 minute drive from downtown
If you’re looking for an up-close waterfall experience, Grimes Glen is a great option. Visitors take a creek walk to two falls where they can wade around. This is an at-your-own-risk-experience, as it is not lifeguarded.
Eternal Flame Falls
1 hour and 24 minute drive from downtown
One of the more unique waterfall experiences in the area is the Eternal Flame Falls, just south of Buffalo. A 1.2 mile hike, including a creek walk, leads to a small waterfall that flows over a grotto. Inside the grotto, visitors can see a natural gas spring that creates an ongoing flame.
Taughannock Falls State Park
1 hour and 28 minute drive from downtown
Taughannock Falls is the tallest free-falling waterfall on the east side of the Mississippi River. It drops an impressive 215 feet through a beautiful, rocky gorge. You can access views of the falls from above or below. The upper views are accessible from hiking trails, while the lower view is available at the bottom of a grouping of staircases. It is a great side trip to a day at Watkins Glen, or paired with swimming in Cayuga Lake at Taughannock Falls State Park’s South Point.
Watkins Glen State Park
1 hour and 28 minute drive from downtown
Watkins Glen is a gorgeous hike along a gorge overlooking 19 waterfalls and many beautiful rock formations. People come from all over to experience the magic of the glen.
Watkins Glen: A Pick Your Own Adventure Day Trip
Watkins Glenn State Park is known worldwide for its natural beauty and unique ecosystems. At just an hour and a half drive from Rochester, it is an easy day trip…
Read MoreRobert H. Treman State Park
1 hour and 45 minute drive from downtown
Enfield Creek runs through Robert H. Treman State Park near Ithaca, creating a gorge with beautiful hiking trails for visitors. However, the real favorite experience of this park is the swimming hole by Lower Falls. There, swimmers can dive off of diving boards at the base of the falls or wade in the stream-fed pool under the reassuring eye of lifeguards. This swimming hole is just a short walk from the parking lot.
Buttermilk Falls State Park
2 hour and 18 minute drive from downtown
Buttermilk Falls, near Ithaca, is another popular place to swim at the base of a waterfall. The waterfall is a short walk from the parking lot and has a swimming hole and wading area for visitors to use. This swimming area also provides lifeguards for extra safety.
We hope you and your family have a great time exploring our favorite waterfalls in the area! Tag us in your pictures so we can share in the fun!
