Ithaca Waterfalls

Ithaca Waterfalls are "Gorges"

As the saying goes, "Ithaca is GORGES!" Ithaca, NY and the surrounding area have more than 150 waterfalls — carved out by glaciers that formed gorges millions of years ago — within 10 miles. A hike to see the falls is one of the best things to do in Ithaca, while nearby restaurants offer farm-to-table dining for that truly local experience. Traveling from NYC to Niagara Falls? Ithaca is the perfect place to stop along the way to see other awesome waterfalls and get a good night's rest at one of our lodging establishments.

Go up to Cornell University or down to the Ithaca Commons, 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 hidden gems that will provide the perfect opportunity for that oh-so-desired snapshot you've been looking for. Take a look at some of the beautiful waterfall locations below and see why Ithaca is Gorges. 

For the latest status of New York State Parks including any closures, consider downloading the free Parks Explorer App and check to see full details on individual parks here: parks.ny.gov

Popular Ithaca waterfalls by height

Most Notable Waterfalls Tallest Height
(feet, meters) 
Type of 'Falls' Best Ways to View
Taughannock Falls 215', 66m Plunge Hike In or Overlook
Buttermilk Falls 165', 50m Cascade Walk-up at base
Ithaca Falls 150', 46m Cascade From bridge or Hike In
Lucifer Falls 115', 30m Plunge Hike In
Lick Brook Falls 93', 29m Cascade Hike In
Enfield Falls/Lower Falls 70', 21m Cascade Hike In
Wells Falls/Businessman's Lunch 65', 20m Cascade Hike In
Triphammer Falls 55', 17m Cascade From bridge
Potter's Falls 35', 11m Cascade Hike In
Forest Falls 25', 8m Cascade From bridge, Hike In
Rocky Falls 25', 8m Cascade From bridge
Denison Falls 21', 6m Cascade Hike In
Cascadilla Falls 20', 6m Cascade Hike along trail