If you’ve yet to hike the Taughannock Falls Gorge Trail, you’ve been missing out! This spectacular waterfall in the Finger Lakes is one for the bucket list. It plunges 215 feet into a stunning rocky gorge and is the tallest single-drop waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains—even taller than Niagara Falls! This beautiful State Park borders Cayuga Lake, one of the largest Finger Lakes, and features a beach, marina, and boat launch—great for summer swimming, kayaking, and fishing.
This main attraction is accessible by the easy 1.5-mile out-and-back Taughannock Falls Gorge Trail, which takes you to the base of the falls. Along the way, the towering gorge walls surround you, creating a magical atmosphere out in nature. In addition to the Gorge Trail, the park offers Rim Trails (North and South) that provide elevated views of the gorge and surrounding forest. This state park in the Finger Lakes is a quick, easy drive from Ithaca, about 15 minutes, and just minutes from Trumansburg, where you’ll also find our charming bed and breakfast.
The Inn at Gothic Eves, a bed and breakfast and spa, is one of the most luxurious accommodations in the Finger Lakes, especially if you’re hoping to escape from the city for a few days to visit the untouched wilderness of Upstate New York. There’s no better place to return to after exploring the Taughannock Falls Gorge Trail for relaxing and reflection. Our quiet Inn offers a lovely space to unwind, whether you’re here for a romantic getaway, solo retreat, or girlfriend’s trip. And a spa session is a must! Book your lodging at our Finger Lakes bed and breakfast.
One of the Best Hikes Upstate: Taughannock Falls Gorge Trail
Taughannock Falls State Park is a fantastic place to escape into the beauty of nature! Water, stone, and sky come together in an incredible display here. The park’s star attraction, Taughannock Falls, takes your breath away as it plunges an astounding 215 feet, making it the tallest single-drop waterfall in Upstate NY. The view is unforgettable whether you’re admiring it from the overlook or standing at the base along the easy, family-friendly Gorge Trail!
But the fun doesn’t stop there! Taughannock Falls State Park is perfect for outdoor lovers, regardless of season. When the weather warms up, you can head to Cayuga Lake, where you’ll find a sandy beach, a boat launch, and a marina—great for swimming, paddling, and fishing. The park also has an extensive network of trails, including the Gorge Trail and Rim Trails, and scenic woodland paths perfect for hiking and snapping photos.
Here are the best trails to explore at Taughannock Falls State Park:
- The Taughannock Falls Gorge Trail is open most days throughout the year. However, the park may temporarily close the trail during specific winter periods when ice makes the path unsafe. This 1.5-mile round-trip trail follows Taughannock Creek to the main waterfall. The walk is easy and mostly level, offering plenty of sights along the way. The towering gorge walls on either side of the trail provide a stunning backdrop, and the creek is fascinating to observe, whether it’s flowing as a raging torrent or barely trickling.
- Alternately, if you’d like to see the falls from above the Rim Trail is the perfect vantage point. There is a North and South route, and both include steep stone steps, so these routes are closed more often than not in the winter months. This choice is much quieter than the Taughannock Falls Gorge Trail, as the base can be much busier.
- The Black Diamond Trail is an 8.4-mile multi-use trail in New York’s Finger Lakes region, stretching from Cass Park in Ithaca northward to Taughannock Falls State Park in Trumansburg. Named after the historic “Black Diamond Express” passenger train that once ran along this corridor, the trail offers a peaceful, scenic route for walking, biking, running, and cross-country skiing.
Book the Best Lodging Near Taughannock Falls State Park
If you’re dreaming of a romantic weekend escape in the Finger Lakes, The Inn at Gothic Eves is the kind of place that feels like it was made just for you. Ideally situated in the charming village of Trumansburg—just minutes from Cayuga Lake, Taughannock Falls State Park, and the local wine trail—our bed and breakfast is surrounded by natural beauty and small-town charm. Whether you’re looking to hike through the gorge, sip your way through nearby wineries, or relax in a quiet, scenic setting, our B&B is the ideal home base for your upstate New York adventure.
Each guest room at our Finger Lakes bed and breakfast is designed with comfort and elegance in mind, offering a cozy yet sophisticated retreat after a day of exploring. With comfortable beds, modern bathrooms (some with soaking tubs or steam showers), and stylish, artful decor, the rooms feel more like a boutique hotel than a traditional B&B. The thoughtful touches—like fireplaces, curated furnishings, and large windows that let in soft natural light—create a peaceful atmosphere that invites you to slow down and settle in.
In the morning, you’ll wake up to a delicious homemade breakfast featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients—fresh-baked pastries, hearty egg dishes, and veggies from nearby farms. And if you’re leaning into the relaxation vibe, don’t miss the onsite spa, where couples massages and wellness treatments offer the perfect way to unwind. Whether you’re celebrating something special or need a change of scenery, our Finger Lake bed and breakfast provides a romantic destination just a few hours from the city. Book your lodging today!
