A stunning gem with mighty views, Chittenango Falls State Park [2300 Rathbun Rd, Cazenovia, NY 13035] was a highlight on our road trip through Central New York. This park has the highest rate of return for the smallest amount of effort! Check out the trail map,
just .36 miles on the Orange Gorge Trail (add a bit more to finish the loop, not even a full half mile), and of course you can extend your stay by completing additional trails in the park. It is more of a nature walk than a hike, anyone who can walk up and down stairs can and should enjoy this trail. Even if you can’t do stairs – you can still get some excellent views of the waterfall just seconds from the parking lot on the accessible trail.
We took the walk down though,
meandering past some wonderful views of the falls and reading informational panels along the way.
Best of all was the view from the bridge directly in front of the falls! Magnificent 167 feet of falling water, after just a few minutes of walking.
You could turn back and go the way you came, but who doesn’t enjoy a good loop? We finished crossing the bridge after oogling, and headed up a short steep path and found ourselves on the other side of the falls with a new angle.
From high above looking down on the bridge we just crossed a couple was taking their wedding pictures, couldn’t think of a more breathtaking view!
We followed the creek past some gushing water and colorful wildflowers,
And under a bridge.
Looking for more of a walk we continued onto the blue trail for a bit, peaceful and quiet with more patient waters.
This park is certainly worth a stop if only for a few seconds to see the falls, an hour or so to walk the lovely trails, or a day full of fun and picnicking.