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New York: Taughannock Falls State Park
🏞️ Taughannock Falls State Park
As part of our New England road trip, we found ourselves heading north through the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York — a part of the world that manages to be both genuinely beautiful and almost entirely unknown to anyone outside North America. Before making our way to the park, we passed through Ithaca, a modest but rather appealing university city that sits at the southern tip of Cayuga Lake. We did a brief loop around the campus of Cornell University, which was founded back in 1865 by Ezra Cornell and Andrew Dickson White and is, by any measure, a handsome place. There are some lovely old Gothic and Collegiate Revival buildings scattered about, the sort that make you feel vaguely inadequate for having gone to a polytechnic. As it happened, the college was not in session, so the whole place was eerily quiet — apart from the apparently compulsory and never-ending construction work that seems to follow American universities around like a bad smell.
From Ithaca, we headed north along the western shore of Cayuga Lake. At roughly 61 miles long, Cayuga is the longest of the eleven Finger Lakes — those long, narrow glacial lakes carved out during the last Ice Age, which give this corner of New York State its rather dramatic topography. Our destination was Taughannock Falls State Park, which sits about 10 miles north of Ithaca. The park takes its name from Taughannock Falls, a rather spectacular waterfall that drops some 215 feet — taller than Niagara, as the locals will cheerfully tell you at every available opportunity. The park itself was established in 1925 and today covers around 783 acres. The eastern side fronts directly onto the banks of Cayuga Lake and has the usual amenities — a concession stand, restrooms, and access to the lake itself. This is also where most of the parking is located, which is handy.
Under normal circumstances, we would have been more than happy to go for a paddle or even a full swim in the lake. It was warm, it looked inviting, and after hours in the car, it seemed like an excellent idea. Sadly, nature had other plans. There were hazardous blue-green algae blooms on the water, which meant that swimming was prohibited for both people and dogs. The algae, known more properly as cyanobacteria, can produce toxins that are harmful to humans and — particularly quickly — to dogs. So that was that. Worth bearing in mind if you visit during the summer months and are harbouring any romantic notions about a refreshing dip in the lake.
We hadn’t, of course, driven all this way just to stare longingly at a lake we weren’t allowed to swim in. The whole point of the visit was Taughannock Falls itself. At 215 feet, it drops in a single, uninterrupted plunge — which, rather satisfyingly, makes it 33 feet taller than Niagara Falls. Not that Niagara isn’t impressive, but there is something enormously pleasing about a waterfall that out-does one of the most famous landmarks in North America whilst remaining almost entirely unknown outside of upstate New York. It holds the title of the tallest free-falling waterfall in the entire northeastern United States, which is no small thing. The only local challenger worth mentioning is Kaaterskill Falls, tucked away in the Catskill Mountains, which edges it by 15 feet in total height — but rather cheats by doing it in two separate drops. So in our view, Taughannock wins on points.
To get there, you cross the road from the lake area to the Gorge Trailhead, which is the starting point for the trail that leads up to the falls. Straightforward enough, as these things go, and a very welcome change from sitting in the car.
The Gorge Trailhead which leads to Taughannock Falls in across the road from the lake area.
As trails go, this one was about as demanding as a stroll to the corner shop — perfectly flat, well-surfaced, and entirely manageable even if your idea of vigorous exercise is changing channels without the remote. That said, it does get extremely busy in the summer months, so don’t expect a peaceful communion with nature. You’ll be sharing the experience with what feels like most of the eastern seaboard.
The trail follows Taughannock Creek upstream through a gradually narrowing gorge. I should say that calling it a creek felt somewhat misleading — the thing was broad, fast-moving, and had a perfectly respectable volume of water for something that doesn’t appear to take itself too seriously on the map. Along the way there are several smaller falls punctuating the route — nothing that’s going to make the front page of National Geographic, but pleasant enough, and they gave us a perfectly good excuse to stop and pretend we were admiring the scenery rather than simply having a rest.
We followed the gorge trail and as we walked, the cliffs began to close in on either side, rising steadily until the rim was a good 400 feet above our heads. It’s one of those moments where you stop mid-stride, look up, and feel pleasantly insignificant — which, after a long morning in the car, was actually rather welcome.
The creek running along the gorge floor was, it has to be said, not exactly the Amazon. Fairly shallow in most places, you could wade out into it without any great drama and the water barely covered your ankles. No white-water rafting, then. Still, on a warm day it was perfectly pleasant to splash about in, and considerably more refreshing than standing on the bank wishing you’d worn different shoes.
Continuing along the trail from the car park, it was an easy enough walk — three-quarters of a mile along a well-maintained path following Taughannock Creek upstream through a surprisingly dramatic gorge, its walls rising steeply on either side in layered shelves of grey shale and sandstone. Geologists will tell you the gorge was carved out over thousands of years by glacial meltwater and erosion, which is all very impressive, though at the time we were mostly just glad it was relatively flat.
At the end of the trail, you reach the falls themselves, and they do not disappoint. Just before the main viewpoint there is a bridge spanning the creek, which is as good a spot as any to stop, catch your breath, and take a photograph or twelve. We certainly did. Cross the bridge and the trail continues for another hundred feet or so, bringing you right up close to the base of the falls — close enough to genuinely appreciate the sheer brute force of the thing as several thousand gallons of water comes thundering down 215 feet of rock face every minute. It is, not to put too fine a point on it, rather impressive.
It is also, we discovered, extremely wet. The spray from the falls carries a good distance, and if you venture to the end of the path you will get a thorough soaking whether you want one or not. Consider yourself warned.
When done, you’ll have to turn around and retrace your steps back to the trailhead — which, frankly, is fine. The walk back is just as pretty as the walk in, and you’ll almost certainly notice things you missed on the way.
If you still have energy left in your legs — and good for you if you do — there are also trails running along both the north and south rim of the gorge, which offer some rather impressive overlooks of the falls from above. Well worth the extra effort.
In summary …
- Taughannock Falls are the tallest falls east of the Rocky Mountains – and very easy to get to.
- It gets busy during holidays, weekends through the summer and fall. Plan to get here early or later in the day to avoid the crowds.
- The Gorge Trail is short (3/4 of a mile) and flat. You can easily access this with a pushchair/stroller.
Planning your visit to Taughannock Falls State Park
| 📍 Location | 1740 Taughannock Blvd, Trumansburg, NY 14886 | 🕖 Opening Times | Year-round, dawn to dusk |
| 🌐 Website | parks.ny.gov/parks/taughannockfalls | 📞 Phone | (607) 387-6739 |
| 🏊 Swimming Season | 26 June – Labor Day, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily | 🏕️ Camping Season | 15 May – 12 October (reservations via ReserveAmerica) |
🎟️ Fees
| Day-Use Parking | Camping (per night) | Cabin (per night) | Pavilion Hire | Reservation Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9.00 per vehicle | From $18 | From $60 | $50–$200 | $7.25 (first night) |
ℹ️ Entry to the park on foot is free. The parking fee applies year-round, dawn to dusk. An out-of-state surcharge of $5/night applies for camping and $7/night for cabins. A free overlook with its own parking lot is accessible outside the main park entrance.
🚗 How to Get There
The park is located on Route 89 along the western shore of Cayuga Lake, 8 miles north-west of Ithaca and 3 miles south-east of Trumansburg, in the Finger Lakes region of central New York.
| 🚘 From New York City | Approx. 4.5–5 hrs via I-87 N (NY Thruway) to I-90 W, then south on Route 89 along Cayuga Lake | 🚘 From Ithaca | 8 miles north on Route 89; approx. 15–20 mins |
| 🚘 From Syracuse | Approx. 1.5 hrs via I-81 S to Route 34/96 west to Route 89 | 🚘 From Buffalo | Approx. 2.5 hrs via I-90 E to Route 89 south |
| 🚌 By Bus | Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) serves the Ithaca–Trumansburg corridor; check tcatbus.com for schedules | ✈️ Nearest Airport | Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport (ITH), approx. 12 miles south |
ℹ️ There are two entrances off Route 89. The first (heading south) leads to a free overlook with spectacular views of the falls. The second is the main park entrance giving access to the gorge trail, beach, marina, and camping areas. GPS co-ordinates: 42.5428°N, 76.6061°W.
Best time to visit New York State
New York State is a destination of remarkable diversity — from the glittering streets of Manhattan to the wild peaks of the Adirondacks, from the glacial Finger Lakes to the thundering curtain of Niagara Falls. Knowing when to go, and where, makes all the difference between a memorable trip and a frustrating one. This guide breaks down the best times to visit each major region by season, with advice on what to pack.
🌸 Spring (March–May)
Spring arrives unevenly across the state. New York City sheds its winter grey by April, when cherry blossoms bloom in Central Park and the Botanical Gardens and the streets regain their lively energy. It is one of the finest times to visit the city: hotel rates are lower than summer, queues are manageable, and the mild temperatures make walking a pleasure. The Hudson Valley bursts into colour as orchards blossom and the great estates reopen their gardens. The Catskills are waking up but can still be muddy and cold, with some hiking trails remaining snow-covered into April.
Further north, spring comes late and hesitantly. The Adirondacks remain wintry well into May, with black fly season beginning in earnest from mid-May onward — a real deterrent for hikers. The Finger Lakes are chilly but already pouring, with many wineries open and far fewer tourists than summer. Niagara Falls is spectacular in spring, with snowmelt sending vast volumes of water crashing over the precipice, and crowds are thin. Long Island remains quiet, with the Hamptons firmly in off-season mode until Memorial Day weekend. The Capital Region and Saratoga are pleasant in spring, particularly as the racing season begins to generate anticipation.
What to pack for spring: Layering is essential — mornings and evenings can be cold even when afternoons are warm. Bring a waterproof jacket, a mid-layer fleece or light down jacket, comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots, and an umbrella. Insect repellent is strongly advisable for the Adirondacks and Catskills from May onwards.
☀️ Summer (June–August)
Summer is peak season across most of the state, and for good reason. Long Island and the Hamptons come fully alive, with the Atlantic beaches among the finest in the north-east. The Hamptons in July and August are glamorous but expensive and congested; the North Fork is a quieter alternative, combining beaches with outstanding wine country. The Finger Lakes reach their zenith in summer — warm enough to kayak and swim, with vineyard terraces in full production and farmers’ markets overflowing. Watkins Glen State Park is at its most dramatic, and Seneca and Cayuga Lakes are ideal for sailing.
The Adirondacks in July and August offer world-class hiking, paddling, and wild swimming. The High Peaks are accessible to experienced walkers, and smaller summits reward those with less experience. Lake Placid, host to two Winter Olympics, reinvents itself as a hiking and cycling destination in summer. Niagara Falls and western New York are at their most popular, with long queues and high hotel rates — book well in advance. The North Country along the St Lawrence Seaway comes into its own, with the Thousand Islands offering scenic boat trips and peaceful cycling.
New York City in summer can be oppressively humid and hot, particularly in July and August. The city does not shut down — Broadway runs, the museums are superb, and free outdoor events abound — but it is not the most comfortable season for walking all day. Rooftop bars and air-conditioned galleries become essential refuges. The Capital Region and Saratoga are lively with racing at the famous Saratoga Race Course in August, one of the oldest thoroughbred racing venues in America.
What to pack for summer: Lightweight, breathable clothing is the priority. Include a light rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and sunglasses, and a swimsuit. For hiking regions, add moisture-wicking layers, sturdy boots, and plenty of insect repellent. New York City summers require comfortable shoes above all else; smart casual attire is fine for most restaurants and venues.
🍂 Autumn (September–November)
Autumn is arguably the finest season in New York State, and it is the best overall time to visit for the majority of travellers. The foliage season is one of the most celebrated natural spectacles in the world. The Adirondacks and Catskills turn from late September, with peak colour typically in the first two weeks of October. The Hudson Valley follows, its river-flanked hills ablaze in red, orange, and gold. Apple-picking and pumpkin farms open throughout the region, and the harvest season brings farmers’ markets to their peak.
New York City in autumn — particularly September and October — is at its most seductive. The heat and humidity have gone, the summer tourists have thinned, and the cultural season begins in earnest. The Metropolitan Opera reopens, Broadway launches its new productions, and the city settles into a purposeful, energetic rhythm. Fares and hotel rates are still competitive in September, rising as October progresses. The Finger Lakes harvest season in September and October draws oenophiles from across the country, with winemaker events and harvest festivals at many estates. Long Island’s North Fork wine country is at its best in autumn, and the beaches are quieter but still pleasant in September.
November is a mixed month: the foliage is largely over, many rural businesses begin to close or reduce hours, and temperatures drop sharply. Thanksgiving week in New York City is a spectacle in itself, with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade drawing vast crowds, though hotel prices spike considerably.
What to pack for autumn: Layers are essential and should be versatile. A medium-weight waterproof jacket, warm jumper or fleece, scarf, and light gloves for November are all recommended. Comfortable walking shoes or ankle boots suit the city well; sturdy hiking boots are needed for trail walks. Bring a camera — the foliage demands it.
❄️ Winter (December–February)
Winter divides travellers into two camps: those who love it and those who avoid it. New York City at Christmas is genuinely magical — ice rinks at Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park, the department store window displays, the holiday markets at Bryant Park and Columbus Circle, and the extraordinary energy of New Year’s Eve. January and February are quieter, colder, and far better value, with hotel rates dropping and museums and restaurants less crowded.
The Adirondacks become a winter wonderland beloved by skiers, snowshoers, and ice climbers. Whiteface Mountain near Lake Placid is the premier ski resort in the north-east, with reliable snowfall and long vertical drops. The Catskills offer several ski areas — Windham, Hunter, and Belleayre among them — within easy reach of New York City. The Finger Lakes are cold and largely quiet, though ice wine production and cosy winery visits make for a romantic winter break. Niagara Falls is spectacular but brutally cold; the mist freezes on railings and trees, creating an ice-draped landscape of eerie beauty, and crowds are almost non-existent.
Long Island and the Hamptons are very quiet and many businesses close entirely. The North Country and Capital Region endure heavy snow and are best visited only by those specifically seeking winter sports. Saratoga Springs, however, is a charming small city in winter, with its Victorian architecture and spa tradition making it an appealing year-round destination.
What to pack for winter: Pack warmly and in serious layers. A heavy, windproof and waterproof coat is non-negotiable. Add thermal base layers, a warm hat, gloves or mittens, a scarf, and waterproof boots with good grip for icy pavements. In New York City, smart-looking winter boots work well for both street and restaurant. For ski regions, full ski or snowboard gear is needed; kit can be hired locally if not bringing your own.
🗺️ Regional Summary
New York City is best in September–October and April–May. Avoid July and August if heat bothers you.
Hudson Valley & Catskills peaks in September–October for foliage and in April–May for blossom. Summer is pleasant but busier.
The Adirondacks are best in July–August for hiking and September for foliage, or December–March for skiing. Avoid black fly season in May.
The Finger Lakes shine in summer for swimming and sailing and in September–October for the harvest and wine season.
Niagara Falls & Western New York are most impressive in spring and summer; winter is dramatic but very cold. Book ahead for July and August.
Long Island & The Hamptons are exclusively a late May to September destination, with September being the sweet spot between crowds and warmth.
North Country & St Lawrence is best in July and August for outdoor pursuits, or winter for snowmobiling and skiing.
Capital Region & Saratoga peaks in August with the racing season; autumn and spring are pleasant alternatives.
🌟 The Overall Best Time to Visit New York State
If there is one season to choose above all others for a first or broad visit to New York State, it is early autumn — specifically the last week of September and the first two weeks of October. During this window, New York City is at its most liveable, the Hudson Valley and Catskills are ablaze with foliage colour, the Finger Lakes wine harvest is in full swing, and the Adirondacks offer golden trails and cooler, clearer air without the biting cold of November. Temperatures are comfortable across the state, the summer crowds have retreated, and the landscape is simply breathtaking. For those who want to experience the full breadth of what New York State offers — world-class city culture, spectacular natural beauty, outstanding food and wine — there is no finer moment to arrive.
Other places to visit near Corning
1. Corning Museum of Glass
The Corning Museum of Glass is located in Corning, a small city in upstate New York. It opened in 1951 and was set up by Corning Incorporated, the company known for its work in glass technology. The museum holds one of the largest collections of glass objects in the world, with more than 50,000 items spanning around 3,500 years of history — from ancient Egyptian vessels to modern studio art pieces. Visitors can watch glassblowing demonstrations in person, and there are opportunities to have a go at making glass themselves. There is also a large reference library focused on the history and science of glass. The museum attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and is generally regarded as the most comprehensive institution of its kind anywhere in the world.
2. Watkins Glen State Park
Watkins Glen State Park sits in the Finger Lakes region of New York State, carved out over thousands of years by a stream cutting through layers of ancient rock. The park is best known for its narrow gorge, which stretches for about three kilometres and features nineteen waterfalls tumbling over mossy ledges and smooth stone walls. Visitors can walk along a series of well-maintained footpaths that wind through the gorge, passing close to the falls and crossing over small stone bridges. The scenery is striking in a quiet, natural way, with the sound of rushing water and the cool, damp air of the gorge making it a pleasant place to spend a few hours. The park gets busy in summer, so arriving early in the day tends to make for a more relaxed visit. There is a campsite on the grounds for those who want to stay overnight, and the surrounding area offers a range of other activities, including wine tasting at local vineyards.
3. The Rockwell Museum
The core of this interesting and diverse collection was gifted by Bob and Hertha Rockwell, local business owners who amassed an incredible collection of American art and artefacts.
The Rockwells had keen eyes for art and exquisite taste. They owned a department store in the area and used their store as a venue to display their remarkable collection of American art and artefacts, Carder Steuben glass, classic firearms, and antique toys.
Their collection quickly outgrew their department store. In 1974, the Rockwells and a group of executives from Corning Glass Works (now Corning Incorporated) began working together to turn the collection into a museum for the benefit of the Corning, NY community. The Rockwells would donate their collection, and the company and the community would support the museum moving forward.
Where to stay near Corning
1. Black Sheep Inn & Spa
Tucked into the rolling hills of New York’s Finger Lakes region, the Black Sheep Inn & Spa sits at the southern tip of Keuka Lake in the charming village of Hammondsport — and it’s unlike any B&B you’ve likely stayed in before. The inn is housed in a striking 1859 octagon-style building listed on the National Register of Historic Places, giving it an architectural character that’s impossible to forget. Six thoughtfully designed guest rooms each feature their own unique style, with king, queen, or full bed options, en-suite bathrooms, lush robes, and organic toiletries — plus complimentary chocolates and champagne on arrival. Breakfast is entirely plant-based, with homemade granolas, freshly baked breads, and made-to-order hot dishes that even non-vegans rave about. Set within three acres of south-facing gardens, it’s an ideal base for exploring local wineries, breweries, and distilleries. A genuine gem worth every mile of the drive.
2. Taylor Farm B & B
3. Gaffer Inn
If you’re looking for a cozy, characterful place to stay in the Southern Tier of New York, the Gaffer Inn on historic Market Street in downtown Corning is hard to beat. This boutique property, which opened in 2010, weaves Corning’s celebrated glassmaking heritage into its charming décor. The inn’s four individually decorated guestrooms feature fireplaces, Smart TVs, and kitchenettes, giving guests a home-away-from-home feel right in the heart of the Gaffer District. Guests are also within easy walking distance of the Corning Museum of Glass and the Rockwell Museum of Western Art — making it an ideal base for a cultural getaway. Highly rated for its location, comfort, and room size, the Gaffer Inn punches well above its weight for a small-town inn, offering a warm, unhurried retreat that perfectly complements everything Corning has to offer
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