Day Trips from New York
← All New York day tripsDay Trips from New York: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of New York, NY. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near New York
Croton Gorge Park
Croton-On-Hudson, NY 10520
Just 1 hr 2 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars by 5,104 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lehigh Gorge State Park - Rockport Access
Weatherly, PA 18255
Just 2 hrs 10 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars by 2,524 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Awosting Falls
NY 12525, USA
Just 1 hr 54 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars by 174 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lehigh Gorge State Park
PA 18229, USA
Just 2 hrs 19 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars by 322 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Harriman State Park
Southfields, NY 10975
Just 55 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 4,643 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Seven Tubs Recreation Area - Pinchot Forest District
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
Just 2 hrs 12 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 2,101 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Salt Springs State Park
Montrose, PA 18801
Just 2 hrs 59 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 1,003 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
High Falls
Hudson, NY 12534
Just 2 hrs 16 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 650 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hickory Run State Park
White Haven, PA 18661
Just 2 hrs 6 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 4,626 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hackers Falls
Milford, PA 18337
Just 1 hr 40 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 263 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hemlock Falls
510 Rte 510, South Orange Village
Just 40 min from New York, rated 4.6 stars by 934 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Bash Bish Falls State Park
Mt Washington, MA 01258
Just 2 hrs 19 min from New York, rated 4.6 stars by 1,070 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from New York
What are the best waterfalls near New York, NY?
The best waterfalls near New York range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near New York?
Some waterfalls near New York have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near New York?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near New York are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near New York?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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