Rochester New York is home to some amazing waterfalls. As a result, the amount of people who go there to feast their eyes on the beauty of nature there comes as no surprise.
What’s great about these waterfalls is that you can easily access them without going down dark ravines that you can only access by challenging trails. This further increases their appeal to families who want to connect to nature and escape the city life’s hustle and bustle.
There are a lot of stunning waterfalls in Rochester New York but here are the top 6 fascinating, must-visit waterfalls there. With that being said, let’s get right into it!
Book ahead so you don’t miss out on the top tours in Rochester New York.
6 Beautiful Waterfalls in Rochester New York
1. High Falls
If you want to feast on the beauty of one of New York States’ highest waterfalls, you should go to the High Falls. These falls, around 96 feet high, are in the city’s downtown. You’ll be fascinated once you see the view of the waterfall and skyline together.
This place is special because it’s situated right in the middle of Rochester, creating a perfect balance between the beauty of nature and the bustling city. The “Pont de Rennes,” a bridge open only to pedestrians, offers visitor seats and stunning vistas.
You can enjoy one of the most charming sunset views in the city from the High Falls terrace, where you can see both the buildings and the waterfall. You can also use the unique beauty of the High Falls and take unforgettable pictures to show your friends and family.
- Address: 4 Commercial St, Rochester, NY 14614, United States
- Total height: 96 ft (29 m)
You might enjoy reading some of my other articles on Rochester New York:
–Parks in Rochester New York
–Kayaking near Rochester New York
–Haunted Houses in Rochester New York
–Museums Near Rochester New York
–Fall Activities in Rochester New york
–Weekends trips from Rochester New York
2. Lower Falls
Another fantastic location to witness the impressive view of water falling from a height of about 110 feet is the Lower Falls. According to history, the high-pressure levels of the water were very advantageous for the grinding process, and it was the first location to attract inhabitants. Lower Falls Park allows you to enjoy outstanding vistas of the lower falls.
There are also many wonderful hiking trails and parks surrounding it, which further increases the appeal of this location. The walking trail also leads to the Driving Park Bridge, which provides access to a breathtaking view. However, a 10-foot-high fence is truly annoying if you want to take pictures of the lower falls.
Finally, you’ll fall in love with Maplewood Park, an excellent place for picnics that boasts various beautiful seasonal flowers.
- Address: Maplewood Ave, Rochester, NY 14613, United States
- Total height: 110 ft (33 m)
3. Taughannock Falls State Park
If you want to feast your eyes on the beauty of one of the popular natural attractions in the state, Taughannock Falls State Park has got you covered. Taughannock Falls plunges 215 ft in front of rocky cliffs with a height of almost 400 ft. at the end of the gorge trail. Both the rim and gorge trails provide breathtaking views of the falls below and above.
Don’t miss my article on the best parks in Rochester New York.
The main parking lot’s paved walkway leads to the overlook viewpoint, where you get the most out of Taughannock Falls and witness its incredible views. And the best part is that anyone can visit this viewing point—it’s accessible to everyone!
- Address: 1740 Taughannock Blvd. Trumansburg, NY 14886
- Total height: 215 ft (66 m)
4. Densmore Falls
Being a relatively small waterfall doesn’t mean that Densmore Falls are not worth visiting, which is situated in Irondequoit, a suburb of Rochester. This waterfall is one of the best falls in the area if you want a shorter yet fun trip. The trail is short, and it follows the same path both ways.
The 15-foot cascading design structure at Densmore Falls makes for some beautiful and unforgettable pictures. Because iron oxide exists at high levels in the Medina Sandstone Layer, the water and stones have a light red shade that makes them even more aesthetically pleasing.
- Address: 443 Densmore Rd, Rochester, NY 14609, United States
- Total height: 15 ft (4.5 m)
5. Turning Point Falls
Turning Point Falls is located on Boxart Street in the Charlotte neighborhood. These consist of 2 seasonal falls (Brown Falls and Red Falls) that are a part of Turning Point Park. This park is perfect for feeling more connected to nature and enjoying walking, cycling, and hiking trails. Plus, The Genesee River runs alongside the Broadwalk trail, which will never fail to bring a sense of serenity.
- Address: 260 Boxart St, Rochester, NY 14612, United States
- Total height: 35 ft (1.6 m)
When I was researching this article, I found a fantastic website that covers ALL the waterfalls in New York State – check out NY Falls.
6. Corbett’s Glen Nature Park
Another fascinating, must-visit place to escape city life’s hustle and bustle is Corbett’s Glen Nature Park. This park, formerly private property, is now open to the public (excluding some areas). It covers roughly 52 acres and is a stopover place for many birds.
Besides its fascinating waterfalls and historic tunnels, over 100 species of wildlife are said to exist in the area, making this park a beautiful spot to get closer to nature. The North and South sections of the park are connected through trails. The trail length is about two miles.
- Address: 415 Penfield Rd, Rochester, NY 14625, USA
- Total height: 121 ft (37 m)
You might enjoy reading some of my articles about New York City:
–Things to do in Lower Manhattan
–Historical Places in New York
–New York Off the Beaten Path
–Famous Cathedrals in NYC
–Best Views of the Brooklyn Bridge at Night
–Most Beautiful Places in New York City
–Famous Streets in New York
–Best Views of NYC
Frequently Asked Questions about Rochester Waterfalls
1. Can you swim in High Falls?
No, swimming is not allowed in High Falls. The area around the waterfall is dangerous and swimming can be fatal. Visitors should stay on designated trails and viewing platforms.
2. Is there a fee to visit High Falls?
No, there is no fee to visit High Falls. It is a public park and is open to visitors year-round.
3. Can you fish in the Genesee River near High Falls?
Yes, fishing is allowed in the Genesee River near High Falls. Visitors must have a valid fishing license and follow all state fishing regulations.
4. Can you swim in Lower Falls?
No, swimming is not allowed in Lower Falls. The current is too strong and the rocks can be slippery, making it dangerous to swim in the area.
5. Are dogs allowed at Lower Falls?
Yes, dogs are allowed at Lower Falls, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.
6. What is the best time of year to visit Lower Falls?
The best time to visit Lower Falls is in the spring or fall when the foliage is at its peak. However, the waterfall is beautiful year-round and can be enjoyed in any season.
Impressive, right? Now all you need to do is to pick at least one place you’re eager to visit, pick the people you want to have this memorable experience with (or you can go solo!), and enjoy the incomparable calmness and beauty of these captivating waterfalls.
You might like to read some of my other articles about New York State:
–Famous Bridges in New York
–Covered Bridges in New York
–How to See Niagara Falls from the US Side
–Beaches in Montauk Long Island
–Sunflower Fields in Long Island
Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.