Taughannock Falls State Park | Finger Lakes

Taughannock Falls State Park is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in New York’s Finger Lakes region, located near the village of Trumansburg. The park is best known for Taughannock Falls, a breathtaking waterfall that plunges 215 feet, making it the tallest single-drop waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains and even taller than Niagara Falls by 33 feet.

Location and Overview

The park spans approximately 750 acres on the western shore of Cayuga Lake, one of the largest of the Finger Lakes. The area is renowned for its rugged gorge, dramatic cliffs, and lush forests. Visitors come here year-round to experience the stunning natural scenery and a wide variety of recreational opportunities.

Taughannock Falls

Height & Structure: The main waterfall drops 215 feet in a single sheer plunge into a deep, narrow gorge. The waterfall is framed by towering cliffs that rise up to 400 feet on either side, creating an impressive natural amphitheater.

Geology: The gorge and falls were carved over thousands of years through glacial activity and the erosive power of Taughannock Creek. The exposed rock layers consist primarily of shale and sandstone, revealing fossil evidence and ancient geological history.

Water Flow: While the volume of water flowing over Taughannock Falls is less than Niagara Falls, its height and setting make it visually dramatic and unique.

Additional Waterfalls

Within the park, there are two other notable waterfalls along Taughannock Creek:

Lower Falls: A 15-foot cascade located near the parking and picnic area.

Upper Falls: Approximately 100 feet high, located upstream from the main falls, accessible by more rugged trails.

Hiking Trails

Taughannock Falls State Park offers a network of well-maintained trails suited for various fitness levels, providing diverse views of the gorge, cliffs, and surrounding woodlands.

Gorge Trail: This is a flat, easy, and wide 0.75-mile trail leading from the parking area to the base of Taughannock Falls. It passes the Lower Falls and ends at a spectacular viewing platform at the waterfall’s base, where visitors can feel the mist and hear the roar.

North Rim Trail: A 1.5-mile trail that runs along the north rim of the gorge, offering sweeping views from about 400 feet above the creek and falls. It connects with the South Rim Trail for a loop hike.

South Rim Trail: Slightly shorter (1.2 miles), this trail is more challenging, winding through forests and rocky terrain on the south side of the gorge. It offers quieter, less crowded vistas of the gorge and water.

Multi-Use Trail: Open year-round, this trail supports hiking and cross-country skiing, providing a tranquil environment for wildlife viewing.

Camping and Accommodations

Campgrounds: The park has 68 campsites for tents and RVs, equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, and hot showers. The campground is open from spring to mid-autumn.

Cabins: There are 16 cabins for rent located near Cayuga Lake, providing a more comfortable stay with easy access to trails and the marina.

Reservations: Especially recommended during peak season, as the park is popular among visitors from across the region.

Water Recreation

Swimming: The park offers a lifeguarded swimming beach on Cayuga Lake, open seasonally from mid-June to early September.

Boating and Fishing: There is a concrete boat launch and marina for public use. Anglers fish for lake trout, yellow perch, and landlocked salmon in Cayuga Lake.

Picnicking: Several picnic areas with tables and grills are scattered throughout the park, some with shelter facilities available for group rentals.

Winter Activities

During winter, Taughannock Falls State Park remains open and provides opportunities for ice skating, sledding, and cross-country skiing along the multi-use trail, allowing visitors to experience the serene snowy landscape.

Visitor Information

Entrance Fees: There is a seasonal vehicle entrance fee (around $9) charged from mid-May to mid-October.

Accessibility: The Gorge Trail is accessible and suitable for most visitors, but the rim trails are more rugged and may require better footwear and physical fitness.

Operating Hours: The park is open daily from dawn to dusk year-round.

Nearby Attractions

The park’s location on Cayuga Lake makes it a great base for exploring the Finger Lakes wine country, local dining, and other outdoor destinations like Buttermilk Falls State Park and Robert H. Treman State Park, both famous for their own waterfalls.

Summary

Taughannock Falls State Park is a premier natural destination that combines stunning geological features with excellent recreational opportunities. Its towering waterfall, extensive trail system, and lakeside activities attract visitors looking for hiking, camping, swimming, and serene nature experiences. The park’s blend of beauty, accessibility, and year-round appeal makes it a must-visit spot in the Finger Lakes region.