Top 5 Waterfalls in Upstate NY to See in Person | The Cove [Things to Do](https://www.covesylvanbeach.com/destination-cove/things-to-do) / 5 Best Waterfalls in Upstate NY Near Sylvan Beach 5 Best Waterfalls in Upstate NY Near Sylvan Beach ================================================= There's not much better than a day trip to one of Upstate New York's many scenic waterfalls. Here are five scenic waterfalls near [The Cove at Sylvan Beach](https://www.covesylvanbeach.com/cottages), making The Cove a great home base for those looking for a beautiful, active excursion. This list of waterfalls includes everything from accessible overlooks to moderately difficult trails in the woods. No matter your experience level, you can take in spectacular outdoor views just a short drive away from your lakeside stay. 1. Chittenango Falls State Park: Best All-Around Waterfall Stop --------------------------------------------------------------- This waterfall is the best choice for first-time visitors to the region. You'll get a dramatic view from multiple spots, picnic space, fishing locations and other amenities. The bedrock that the waterfall cuts through is roughly 400 million years old. When visiting this state park, start at the upper area, then follow the winding trail into the gorge if you're comfortable with rocky terrain. You can then take in the stunning view from the footbridge before continuing your walk. **Quick Facts** - **Address:** 5241 Gorge Rd.–Route 13, Cazenovia, NY 13035 - **Signature feature:** 167-foot waterfall with upper and gorge viewpoints - **Difficulty:** Easy upper-area view, plus an optional gorge trail with grades, steps and potentially slick surfaces. - **Hours/fee:** Open year-round with restrictions; sunrise to sunset. Daily vehicle fee is $5 during peak season. - **Pets:** Current state-park rules allow a maximum of two supervised pets on leashes no longer than six feet. - [**From The Cove:** 23 miles, a roughly 35-minute drive.](https://maps.app.goo.gl/At9MaJLj18WWo7gJ9) ### Tips for Visiting Chittenango Falls - Begin at the upper viewing area, then decide whether the gorge route fits your mobility, footwear and weather conditions. - Arrive earlier on peak summer and fall weekends, and have the vehicle fee ready if visiting during peak season. - Use only signed viewpoints and trails to avoid disrupting vegetation and approaching unstable edges. - Families should allow extra time for a picnic or playground stop. ### Chittenango Falls FAQs **How long is the hike at Chittenango Falls?** The gorge trail is roughly 0.36 miles long, with longer trail paths available inside the park. Those who don't want to hike can simply view the waterfall from the upper parking area. **Can you see Chittenango Falls without a difficult hike?** The upper area offers a convenient view of the waterfall, while the gorge trail features a more demanding, yet rewarding experience. 2. Three Falls Woods: Best for a Wooded Hike & Multiple Waterfalls ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Located in Manlius, Three Falls Woods is a 78-acre Central New York Land Trust preserve, featuring a mixed riparian and woodland landscape, several miles of marked paths and three dramatic waterfalls. Though the trail system is clear, it's also moderately difficult due to rocky and uneven sections. The woods also close in the winter. **Quick Facts** - **Address:** Three Falls Woods parking area, 4612 Sweet Rd., Manlius, NY 13104 - **Signature feature:** Three seasonal waterfalls within a 78-acre karst and woodland preserve. - **Difficulty:** Moderate due to rocky and uneven terrain. - **Parking:** Small off-street lot on Sweet Road; no street parking. - [**From The Cove:** 27 miles, a roughly 40-minute drive.](https://maps.app.goo.gl/FJMANy1y2oD6jhNd7) ### Tips for Visiting Three Falls Woods - Plan for spring, early summer, or a safe period after recent rain when the seasonal waterfalls are more likely to be flowing. - Arrive early because the off-street lot fills quickly, and there is no street parking available. - Wear shoes with traction and keep children close around rock, roots and waterfall viewpoints. - Respect fencing, any current trail reroutes and all preserve boundaries – be sure to stay on the marked trail and don't get too close to the waterfalls. ### Three Falls Woods FAQs **How difficult are the trails at Three Falls Woods?** The land trust rates the trails as moderately difficult. The main challenge is rocky, uneven footing and not steep inclines. **Where do you park for Three Falls Woods?** Park at 4612 Sweet Road. It's a small lot, so arrive early. **Are the waterfalls always flowing?** The waterfalls are seasonal, and are most impressive after the winter snow melts or a heavy rain. There is no guarantee that there will be a strong flow. 3. Salmon River Falls: Best for a Dramatic Accessible Overlook -------------------------------------------------------------- For the largest nearby waterfall that's easily accessible, the 110-foot waterfall at Salmon River Falls is a great option. It sits in a 112-acre area, and is just 0.2 miles away from the parking lot with a gentle incline. There is a separate 600-foot gorge trail that is steep and is meant only for physically fit and experienced hikers. **Quick Facts** - **Address:** Falls Road parking area, Richland/Orwell, NY 13144; DEC coordinates 43.549161, -75.942301. - **Signature feature:** A 110-foot waterfall and a 3,000-foot scenic gorge - **Difficulty:** Easy, short access to the waterfall; more challenging trails are available. - **Hours/Fee:** Free and open year-round. The property is closed from sunset to sunrise. - **Seasonal restrictions:** The Gorge and River Bed Trails are closed November 15 – May 1 and during high-water events. - [**From The Cove:** 33 miles, a roughly 45-minute drive.](https://maps.app.goo.gl/rbmgprjg887KmPaUA) ### Tips for Visiting Salmon River Falls - Use the accessible Falls Trail for the easiest overlook; the Gorge Trail is an optional and substantially harder route. - Check the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation page for high-water or seasonal trail closures before departing for the falls. - Swimming and wading in the plunge pool by the waterfall is prohibited. Visitors must stay at least 15 feet from the falls and cliff edges. - If you're walking the Gorge Trail, leave enough daylight to return to the parking area before sunset. Be sure to carry out all trash. ### Salmon River Falls FAQs **Is Salmon River Falls wheelchair accessible?** The Falls Trail is a hard gravel trail that's easily accessible. The Gorge Trail is a different, challenging trail inaccessible by wheelchair. **Can you swim at Salmon River Falls?** No, swimming and wading in the plunge pool are prohibited. **How long is the walk and does it cost anything?** The Falls Trail is just 0.2 miles. Admission is free. 4. Delphi Falls County Park: Best for Families & a Short, Easy Visit ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Delphi Falls is a two-tier waterfall – the upper waterfall is 54 feet and features a more strenuous 0.8-mile trail. The Upper Rim Trail includes 212 stairs. The lower waterfall is 62 feet with a viewing area that includes restrooms and picnic spaces, making it more accessible. New trails have recently been completed to best enjoy the stunning views. **Quick Facts** - **Address:** 2006 Cardner Rd., Cazenovia, NY 13035 - **Signature feature:** A two-tier waterfall: 54-foot upper falls and 62-foot lower falls. - **Difficulty:** The lower waterfalls are easily accessible; the upper waterfalls feature a moderate trail. - **Hours/Rules:** Open all year from sunrise to sunset. Dogs must be on a leash; fishing is allowed and swimming is prohibited. - [**From The Cove:** 31 miles, a roughly 45-minute drive.](https://maps.app.goo.gl/N3Q3eF65uJUiavnR8) ### Tips for Visiting Delphi Falls - Use the lower waterfall area for the shortest and most accessible visit; only use the Upper Rim Trail if you're comfortable with stairs and an inclined path. - Allow extra time for a picnic or photographs. Be sure to stay on the footbridge, marked trails or designated viewing areas. - Delphi is a 20-minute drive from Chittenango Falls, and the two would pair for a great same-day waterfall excursion. - The park is carry-in/carry-out, meaning don't leave anything in the park. Swimming is not permitted. ### Delphi Falls FAQs **Is Delphi Falls accessible?** Yes, there is accessible parking, restrooms and a footbridge by the lower waterfall. The Upper Rim Trail is not accessible. **Can you swim at Delphi Falls?** No, Madison County rules prohibit swimming at any time. **Are dogs and fishing allowed?** Dogs must be on a leash and cleaned up after. Fishing is permitted under applicable New York state rules. 5. Pratt’s Falls Park: Best for a Waterfall & Picnic Day ------------------------------------------------------------ Scenic trails lead to a 137-foot waterfall and feature numerous picnic spaces. The park was the site of Onondaga County's first mill operation over 230 years ago. Pratt's Falls Park is best for guests looking to relax and enjoy a picnic on a half-day outing. Archery is also available near the waterfall. **Quick Facts** - **Address:** 7671 Pratt’s Falls Rd., Manlius, NY 13104 - **Signature feature:** 137-foot waterfall in a wooded county park. - **Difficulty:** Easy - **Hours/fee:** The park is open from 7:00am to 8:30pm from April to August, then from sunrise to sunset in September and October. The park is closed from November to March. Admission is $2 per vehicle and is free for veterans, active military and up to three of their family members. - [**From The Cove:** 31 miles, a roughly 45-minute drive.](https://maps.app.goo.gl/LSpEbZxbKGnaHsQB9) ### Tips for Visiting Pratt’s Falls - Follow the official park map and signed viewpoints. - Stop by Sylvan Beach Supply Co. for lunch and grab-and-go items before you depart for a great picnic. - Wear shoes with traction and arrive earlier on weekends for a calmer trail and picnic experience. - Check seasonal hours and current admission before leaving The Cove. ### Pratt’s Falls FAQs **How tall is Pratt’s Falls?** The waterfall is officially 137 feet high. There are multiple scenic viewpoints on the trails. **How difficult is the walk to Pratt’s Falls?** The Falls Trail is a relaxed 0.6 miles long. The longest trail available is the North Rim Trail at 2.6 miles. **Are dogs allowed and is there an entrance fee?** Dogs are allowed and must be on a leash no longer than six feet. Admission is seasonal; confirm the hours before your trip. Which Upstate NY Waterfall Should You Visit? -------------------------------------------- Which waterfall you should plan your trip around depends on what you're looking for in the experience. Remember, all the waterfalls are close enough to The Cove that you can view multiple in one day. - Choose Chittenango Falls for the classic, all-around waterfall-and-park experience. - Choose Three Falls Woods for a more natural wooded hike and multiple seasonal falls. - Choose Salmon River Falls for the biggest accessible-overlook experience and dramatic gorge scenery. - Choose Delphi Falls for the easiest family visit, accessible facilities, and two-tier waterfall. - Choose Pratt’s Falls for a relaxed waterfall, trail and picnic combination. Make The Cove Your Base for an Upstate NY Waterfall Getaway ----------------------------------------------------------- For those who love a waterfall outing, The Cove is in a perfect location by Oneida Lake. When you're not hiking and taking in the scenery of a great waterfall, you can enjoy water sport rentals from [Sylvan Beach Supply Co.](https://www.covesylvanbeach.com/sylvan-beach-supply-co) and downtime in a premier cottage that includes a complimentary pontoon boat. 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