Scenic state park with 167 foot waterfall
Category

Waterfall

Price

$5

Est. Duration

30-60m

Message from Jacqueline Krawiecki

This park's main attraction is the beautiful Chittenango Falls, a 167-foot waterfall cascading over limestone cliffs.

People generally visit this state park to visit the waterfall (because, just look at it!). An easy-to-follow trail leads to a bridge at the base of the waterfall, which gives you excellent views of the falls.

The main trail is called The Gorge Trail. It's pretty steep and includes a series of stone stairs. It's typically manageable for most people but definitely gets your heart pumping on the way back up. If you don't want to go all the way down, you can stop at the viewpoint through the trees a little ways down the trail.

Chittenango Falls State Park is the only place in the world where you can find the endangered Chittenango Ovate Amber Snail. The snail is found along the misty, spray zone of Chittenango Falls, which provides the cool, damp environment these creatures need to survive. You won't be able to see it though because it's habitat is blocked off. Because it is endangered and lives in such a specific location, please respect all guidelines and restrictions to help protect the species and its habitat.

The waterfall is beautiful in all seasons, whether it's surrounded by lush greenery in summer, colorful foliage in fall, or ice formations in winter. If you visit in the winter, make sure you have proper foot traction devices (you can get some here)

If you have extra time, you can explore some of the other trails in the park for great views of the gorge and surrounding woodland. The park also has picnic facilities, park benches, and restrooms.

**Please note that swimming is not permitted in the park. **

Remember to respect the natural environment, follow all park rules, and practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the park's beauty for future generations.

TO GET THERE: Put "Chittenango Falls State Park" into Google Maps. However, maps might tell you to stop driving in the middle of nowhere. Just keep going straight and you'll get to the park entrance.

Want to see more?

I have created curated maps and itineraries for travellers that want to travel like me.

See all 142 things to do