Taughannock Falls State Park Family Hiking Adventure

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Finger Lakes at Taughannock Falls State Park, where easy trails offer everyone the chance to enjoy iconic waterfalls and lush landscapes.

Last updated: May 2024

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$9 per vehicle

Description

Nestled in the heart of the Finger Lakes region near Ithaca, New York, Taughannock Falls State Park is a haven for hikers and nature lovers. This park features the stunning Taughannock Falls, which plunge 215 feet into a gorge, making it a taller fall than even Niagara. Visitors can choose from several trails: the South Rim Trail (1.2 miles), the North Rim Trail (1.5 miles), and the Gorge Trail (0.75 miles), all of which offer unique perspectives and moderate hikes suitable for all ages, including pets. The park's accessibility and the breathtaking views it offers make it a perfect day trip or camping destination with basic amenities and clean facilities.

What's included

Access to all hiking trails
Pet-friendly paths
Scenic viewpoints and picnic areas
Camping facilities with electric and non-electric sites
Clean bathhouses with showers and restrooms

Perfect for

For families with kids

Outdoorsy

TikTok videos

Itinerary

Arrive at the park and choose your trail at the visitor center.
Hike the North Rim Trail for views from above the gorge or the South Rim Trail for a forested route.
Descend to the Gorge Trail, which leads directly to the base of the falls, where you can enjoy the mist and dramatic views.
Spend time at the overlooks capturing photos or enjoying a picnic.
If camping, set up your tent at one of the designated sites and explore the park over multiple days.

Location

Ulysses, NY 14886

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Packing List

Comfortable walking shoes
Water bottles
Camera
Sunscreen
Hat for sun protection
Camping gear if staying overnight

4.8 ● Google reviews

Arif Shaikh

3 months ago

A 15-minute walk, covering about 1 mile, rewards you with an up-close majestic view of Taughannock Falls. It’s best to visit after rainfall, as the falls look stunningly beautiful when the water flow is strong. Parking is $10 at Taughannock Falls State Park.
Theo Turner

4 months ago

I came here not expecting much and I was pleasantly surprised. The trail is very peaceful with plenty of room to walk. The views on the trail before the waterfall were amazing too. You are in a deep gorge and there are so many interesting colored rocks and unique rock formations. This is a must see if you are ever in Ithaca or anywhere near by. Watch out for the ticket system for the parking lot - it was confusing and hard to use.
John

6 months ago

Stunning Frozen Views (Note: Limited Trail Access) Visited recently and was blown away by the ice formations. Pro-tip: Don't let the "Closed" signs on the lower trails deter you from visiting. You can still get world-class views from the Falls Overlook and the rim trails. The sight of the 215-foot falls partially frozen is something you have to see in person. Wear boots with good traction if you plan on hitting the upper trails, as they can be slick! Taughannock Falls frozen like that is a completely different experience than the summer rush. That massive "ice volcano" forming at the base is legendary.
Valerie Mason

10 months ago

Even gorgeous when there's a drought and hardly any water falling! Truly a beautiful waterfall and landscape. Nicely kept overlooks with gift shop, and the gorge trail to the lower landing has its own gifts of beauty! I visited in the morning as the sun cast its first rays on the tops of the rock walls surrounding the gorge. Has to be one of the best times to visit.
Dennis Breyt

a year ago

I’ve been to Taughannock Falls a few times now, and each visit is kind of spellbinding. Walking the Gorge Trail is a movie-like experience in itself—you follow wide, flat rock plates that are apparently shaped by the creek over thousands of years. As you get closer to the waterfall, the sound of the rushing water grows louder and fills the gorge providing an immersive soundtrack for what is already a wild experience. Seeing the Falls from the bottom is arguably more impressive and kind of meditative. Watching the water fall from over 200 feet is truly captivating (the mist coming off it is beautiful). If you are in the Finger Lakes area and would like to visit a “must see” natural landmark, this might need to be one of them!