When winter hits with its subzero temperatures, waterfalls in Upstate New York turn into a frozen works of art.
Some might say winter is the best time to visit these natural wonders, thanks to the absence of bugs and summer crowds. If you plan to venture out, be sure to gear up with proper winter hiking equipment from clothing to spikes to stay safe and comfortable.
Here are a few must-see waterfalls to visit before winter’s icy grip begins to thaw:
Kaaterskill Falls in Haines Falls in the Catskill Mountains. Tom Hoos | @hoosoutdoors on InstagramTom Hoos | @hoosoutdoors on InstagramKaaterskill Falls
Location: Haines Falls (Catskill Mountains)
This giant, two-stage waterfall in the Catskill Mountains is one of the tallest in the state. A popular spot for tourists, wearing spikes in winter will help you navigate this frozen trail.
Upper Falls at Letchworth State Park on Feb. 5, 2026. Laura Marks | @alaura1974 on InstagramLaura Marks | @alaura1974 on InstagramUpper Falls
Location: Letchworth State Park (Western New York)
Letchworth State Park, nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the East,” boasts three major waterfalls on the Genesee River. Catch each of them along the 7-mile Gorge Trail.
Middle Falls at Letchworth State Park, Feb. 5, 2026. Laura Marks | @alaura1974 on InstagramLaura Marks | @alaura1974 on InstagramMiddle Falls
Location: Letchworth State Park (Western New York)
Down the river from Upper Falls is the mighty Middle Falls. The observation platform brings you close enough to feel the spray from the cascade. The 14,427-acre park was recently named the best state park in the United States and is considered “one of the most scenic areas in the Eastern United States.”
Taughannock Falls, Feb. 2026. Mu Razzaq | @razzaqphotos on InstagramMu Razzaq | @razzaqphotos on InstagramTaughannock Falls
Location: Trumansburg (Finger Lakes)
Taughannock Falls State Park is home to 750 beautiful acres with its crown jewel being the highest single-drop waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. Taughannock Falls plunges 215-feet down the gorge, towering three stories taller than Niagara Falls.
Ausable Chasm in the Adirondacks. Feb. 4, 2026. Provided photo | @drhealth_adk46er on InstagramProvided photo | @drhealth_adk46er on InstagramAusable Chasm
Location: Ausable Chasm (Adirondacks)
Known as the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks, this waterfall which can be seen from the roadside is a great photo opportunity while traveling through the area.
Frozen Rainbow Falls in the Adirondacks, Feb. 10, 2026. David Keeling | @david_keeling__ in InstagramDavid Keeling | @david_keeling__ in InstagramRainbow Falls
Location: Keene (Adirondacks)
This 150-foot waterfall is found on your hike to the Indian Head overlook, one of the most photographed views in the Adirondack Mountains. This hike is accessed through a conservation easement with the Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR). A parking reservation is needed from May 1 – October 31 for crowd control, which makes winter a great time to have it all to yourself.
Lower Enfield Falls, Robert H. Treman State Park in the depths of winter in Ithaca. January 2025. Mike Servedio | Provided photoMike Servedio | Provided photoLower Enfield Falls
Location: Robert H. Treman State Park, Ithaca (Central NY)
In summer this popular watering hole is filled with swimmers and kids diving into the deep pool of Lower Enfield Falls.
Frozen Niagara Falls Feb. 10, 2026. Provided photo | @robinrockscny on InstagramProvided photo | @robinrockscny on InstagramNiagara Falls
Location: Niagara Falls, NY (Western NY)
You can’t have an Upstate New York waterfall list without Niagara Falls. The Cave of the Winds is open in winter at the iconic waterfalls and that means you can view its chilling beauty from nearby platforms.
Mine Lot Falls at Thacher State Park in the Capital Region, January 2025. Photo by Ranger Josh | Provided by Thacher State ParkPhoto by Ranger Josh | Provided by Thacher State ParkMine Lot Falls
Location: Thacher State Park (Capital Region)
Mine Lot falls sparkles in winter at Thacher State Park in Vorheesville, just over a half hour away from downtown Albany. In summer months, visitors can walk under the cascading waters. The trail closes for winter, but you can still view the icy fingers from afar.