Waterfall Hikes in New York

The Best Waterfall Hikes in New York

There's a particular kind of satisfaction that comes from hearing a waterfall before you can see it, that roar getting louder through the trees until you turn a corner and there it is, pouring off a cliff face into a pool below you. New York has a lot of those moments, and the best ones aren't accessible by road.

Here are the waterfall hikes in New York that we keep recommending.

1. Kaaterskill Falls Trail

Distance: 1.9 miles round trip  |  Difficulty: Easy–Moderate  |  Waterfall Height: 260 ft (two tiers)

Kaaterskill Falls is the highest two-tiered waterfall in New York State, and it is absolutely worth the short hike in. The first view of it, both tiers visible at once from the right angle, is the kind of thing that makes you reach for your phone and then realize no photo will actually capture it. The trail is short but the rocks near the falls are slippery, so watch your footing. Wear real hiking shoes.

The falls were famous in the 19th century and were painted by the Hudson River School artists. You'll understand why when you see them. Best visited in spring when the volume is highest, but beautiful in any season.

2. Escarpment Trail to North Point & Ashley Falls

Distance: 8 miles out-and-back  |  Difficulty: Moderate–Challenging  |  Elevation Gain: ~1,400 ft

The Escarpment Trail is one of the best long hikes in the Catskills, and the section that passes through North Point and down to Ashley Falls is a highlight of the whole trail. Ashley Falls drops about 40 feet into a gorgeous gorge. You get there by hiking a ridge with incredible views of the Hudson Valley, which makes the waterfall feel like a bonus gift at the end. This is a longer, harder hike, save it for a day when you want a real outing.

3. Anthony's Nose

Distance: 2.6 miles round trip  |  Difficulty: Moderate  |  Waterfall: Small cascade near base

Anthony's Nose isn't primarily a waterfall hike, but there's a beautiful small cascade at the base of the trail near the river crossing that's worth stopping at. Pair that with the views of the Hudson from the summit and it's one of the more well-rounded short hikes in the region. Accessible by train from NYC via Garrison station.

Tips for Waterfall Hikes in New York

• Best timing: Spring (March–May) has the highest water levels, especially after snowmelt. Waterfalls can be reduced to a trickle in late summer droughts.
• Stay on trail: Rocks near waterfalls are dangerously slippery. Every year people are seriously hurt scrambling around the base of places like Kaaterskill. Don't be that person.
• Wet weather = great falls: A day or two after heavy rain, even modest waterfalls look impressive.
• Bring layers: The air near waterfalls is noticeably cooler and wetter. A light jacket is never a bad idea.

Other NY Waterfalls Worth Knowing About

Taughannock Falls in the Finger Lakes region drops 215 feet, taller than Niagara. Buttermilk Falls and Watkins Glen State Park are both spectacular. If you're willing to travel further into the Catskills, there are dozens of cascades that don't even have names but are absolutely worth finding.

For more Catskills hiking, see our Catskills trail guide. Browse all New York hikes.