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Get ready for a fantastic adventure as you explore the stunning waterfalls of New York! Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out, this 7-day tour of the state’s natural wonders promises an unforgettable experience. From the breathtaking cascades at Watkins Glen State Park to the world-renowned Niagara Falls, this journey will lead you to some of the most picturesque and enchanting spots, each with its own unique character. Our guide provides not only the must-see locations but also helpful tips to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. So, lace up those hiking boots, grab your camera, and prepare to immerse yourself in the incredible beauty of New York’s magnificent waterfalls—it’s time to create memories that will last a lifetime!

Know Before You Go

1. We stayed at Myers Park Campground right on Cayuga Lake for days 1-5 and Dream Lake Campground for days 6-7.  Both were fantastic! If you are looking for hotel options instead, consider staying in Ithaca for days 1-5 and in Warsaw for days 6-7.   My extended family that traveled with us on our last trip stayed at the Fairfield Inn & Suites in Ithaca and the Microtel Inn & Suites in Warsaw.  Both were great!
2. This itinerary is absolutely STUNNING in the fall. We’ve visited many times in the fall, and it is always incredible.
3. Letchworth State Park and Watkins Glen State Park are usually the most crowded. To make your visit more enjoyable, consider starting your trip on a Sunday and ending the following Saturday. This way, you can explore both parks during the week rather than on the weekend.
4. With so many waterfalls, waterproof footwear is recommended for most of the trails on this itinerary. 
5. I recommend downloading an AllTrails map for any trail on this itinerary. (Want to check out AllTrails+?  Use this link for a discount- AllTrails+.)
6. If you click on any park name throughout the itinerary, you will be taken to a park-specific post with more information on lodging, dining, cell service, and trail tips for that park.

7-Day Itinerary

Day 1

• Great Gully Falls Trail (1.5 mi., moderate)

• Ludlowville Falls Trail (0.2 mi., easy)

• Sunset at Myers Point Lighthouse

Day 2

Fillmore Glen State Park

• Gorge Trail (2.5 mi., easy)

Labrador Hollow Unique Area

• Tinker Falls (0.6 mi., easy)
• Labrador Pond (0.5 mi., easy)
• Jones Hill (2 mi., moderate)

Chittenango Falls State Park

• Chittenango Falls Trail (0.5 mi., easy)

Day 3

Taughannock Falls State Park

• Gorge Trail (1.8 mi., easy)

Museum of Earth

Cornell Botanic Gardens

• Cascadilla Gorge Trail (1 mi., moderate)
• Ithaca Falls Trail (0.2 mi., easy)

Day 4

Watkins Glen State Park

• Glen Creek Gorge Trail (2.2 mi., moderate)

Havana Glen Park

• Eagle Cliff Falls Trail (0.3 mi., moderate)

Shequaga Falls Park

• Shequaga Falls (0.1 mi., easy)

Day 5

Robert H. Treman State Park

• Gorge/Rim Loop (4.2 mi., moderate)

Buttermilk Falls State Park

• Gorge/Rim Trail (1.6 mi., moderate)
• Lake Treman Loop (1.5 mi., easy)

Day 6

Letchworth State Park

• Upper Falls (0.2 mi., easy)
• Middle Falls (0.2 mi., easy)
• Inspiration Point
• Lower Falls/Portage Trail (1.6 mi., moderate)
• Archery Field Overlook
• Great Bend Overlook
• Hogsback Overlook
• Mt Morris Dam Overlook

Day 7

Niagara Falls State Park

• Cave of the Winds
• Goat Island Scenic Walk + Three Sisters Islands (3 mi., easy)
• Prospect Point
• Observation Tower
• Maid of the Mist Boat Tour
• Observation Tower

I hope you have an incredible adventure!

Looking for another waterfall road trip? Check out our Pennsylvania Waterfall Road Trip!

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