Ithaca Waterfalls
Ithaca Waterfalls are "Gorges"
As the saying goes, "Ithaca is GORGES!" What does that mean you might ask? Well, with over 150 waterfalls within 10 miles, Ithaca and the surrounding area were literally carved out by glaciers that formed gorges millions of years ago. If you are looking for the best waterfalls in New York, Ithaca is the place to visit. And the best news of all? Because these waterfalls are all so close to one another, you can see a bunch in one quick weekend trip!
Go up to Cornell University, down to the Ithaca Commons, or head to one of the state parks, and you'll undoubtedly stumble upon one of Ithaca's mighty waterfalls. Venture outside of Ithaca, and the surrounding towns of Tompkins County also hold some amazing hidden gems that will provide the perfect opportunity for that oh-so-desired snapshot you've been looking for.
Traveling from NYC to Niagara Falls? Ithaca is the perfect place to stop along the way to see some other awesome waterfalls and get a good night's rest at one of our many local lodging establishments.
Whether you're looking for a quick view from the roadside, or like the idea of a good hike to see the falls, Ithaca has the experience you want. Take a look at some of the beautiful waterfall locations below and start planning your New York waterfall road trip today!
For the latest status of New York State Parks including any closures, consider downloading the free Parks Explorer App and check see full details on individual parks here: parks.ny.gov
Quick Facts About Most Popular Ithaca Waterfalls
| Most Notable Waterfalls | Tallest Height |
| Taughannock Falls | 215' |
| Buttermilk Falls | 165' |
| Ithaca Falls | 150' |
| Lucifer Falls | 115' |
| Lick Brook Falls | 93' |
| Triphammer Falls | 55' |
| Ludlowville Falls | 35' |
| Potter's Falls | 35' |
| Forest Falls | 25' |
| Rocky Falls | 25' |
| Cascadilla Falls | 20' |
| Foaming Falls | 15' |
| Most Notable Waterfalls | Type of 'Falls' |
| Taughannock Falls | Plunge |
| Buttermilk Falls | Cascade |
| Ithaca Falls | Cascade |
| Lucifer Falls | Plunge |
| Lick Brook Falls | Cascade |
| Triphammer Falls | Cascade |
| Ludlowville Falls | Cascade/Plunge |
| Potter's Falls | Cascade |
| Forest Falls | Cascade |
| Rocky Falls | Cascade |
| Cascadilla Falls | Cascade |
| Foaming Falls | Cascade |
| Most Notable Waterfalls | Best Ways to View |
| Taughannock Falls | Hike In, Overlook |
| Buttermilk Falls | From Base, Hike In |
| Ithaca Falls | Roadside, Walk-Up |
| Lucifer Falls | Hike In |
| Lick Brook Falls | Hike In |
| Triphammer Falls | From Bridge, Hike In |
| Ludlowville Falls | Roadside, Hike In |
| Potter's Falls | Hike In |
| Forest Falls | From Bridge, Hike In |
| Rocky Falls | From Bridge |
| Cascadilla Falls | Hike Along Trail |
| Foaming Falls | From Bridge, Hike In |
