Taughannock Falls State Park Facts
Located within the Finger Lakes region right outside of Ithaca, Taughannock Falls State Park is conveniently on Cayuga Lake so you can enjoy both the falls and lake. The park is well known for the 215-foot Taughannock Falls. It is the highest single drop waterfall east of the Mississippi River and easily worth the trip while you’re in the area. Keep reading for hikes, amenities and more!
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Taughannock Falls Overlook for Non-Hikers
Right off of Taughannock Park Road you will find an overlook of the waterfall. There is a main parking area and across the road is an RV parking area for longer vehicles. There was no entry fee at these locations and provided a very short walk to the overlook to admire the falls from above.
Taughannock Falls State Park Hiking Trails
There are 3 main hiking trails that you can choose from within the park:
Gorge Trail: This .95 mile out and back trail is the most popular and accessible in the park. It goes directly to the base of the falls. The trail is relatively flat, making it suitable for families and is stroller friendly. As soon as you start the trail you’ll stumble upon a smaller set of falls to start off the journey. You can also stay on trail OR walk within the creek bed, which on a hot summer day provides cool relief even though there isn’t much shade in that area. Check out the AllTrails details for the Gorge Trail here.
South Rim Trail: The 1.5 mile South Rim Trail offers more of a challenge. This trail provides spectacular overlooks of the gorge and falls from above, offering a different perspective of the park’s natural beauty. There is a bridge that connects the north and south rim trails, as well as stairs. Check out the AllTrails details for South Rim & North Rim Trail here.
North Rim Trail: Similar in length to the South Rim Trail, the 1.5-mile North Rim Trail also provides a moderately challenging hike. This trail winds through lush greenery of NY and offers lovely views of Cayuga Lake, as well as several views of the gorge and falls. There are stairs on this trail. Check out AllTrails details for South Rim & North Rim Trail above.
Good to Know: There was minimal cell service while in the park and on the surrounding roads, so having an offline map was key to make sure you’re heading in the right direction. If you don’t have AllTrails+, I’d highly recommend looking into it. You can download trail maps ahead of time to use offline. You can use my affiliate link HERE and promo code : Lauraslife30 for 30% off AllTrails+
Bathrooms, Parking, and Amenities for Taughannock Falls State Park
Bathrooms: The park is equipped restroom facilities located near the main parking areas and picnic spots. Unfortunately the day we went, the bathrooms weren’t well maintained, but that didn’t deter us from enjoying our time there.
Parking: Taughannock Falls State Park has several lots near the beach and picnic areas, with a smaller one directly near the Gorge trailhead. You can also find parking located near the overlook as mentioned above. Parking fees are listed here.
Finding parking on a busy Saturday was no worry at all, and it was also possible at the overlook section of the park.
Amenities: The park offers a variety of amenities like numerous picnic areas with tables and grills. The park also has a playground for children, a beach area along Cayuga Lake for swimming, and a boat launch. It was noted the launch was not suitable for sailboats.
My thoughts and tips!
Taughannock Falls State Park is a gem and must see while in the Finger Lakes region. Even though it may appear crowded at times, there was always a relaxing semi-secluded spot to relax while both hiking and enjoying the lake.
I’d highly recommend adding this and another local state park into the same day if you’re short on time. Don’t forget, to save money if you visit a NY State Park, keep your receipt and show it at another NY State Park since they can only charge you day. Here is a list of the Top 7 Waterfalls in Finger Lakes, NY for you to also explore!
On a hot day, we really enjoyed the option to see the overlook, drive down, parking near the lake and then do the short hike to the base of the waterfall while enjoying cooling off in the water on the return trip. We then went to relax near the picnic area at Cayuga Lake to end the day before heading back to our Air BNB.
Want More Adventures?
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