One of the most captivating features of the Finger Lakes is the sheer number of waterfalls scattered throughout the region. When winter arrives and temperatures drop below freezing, that doesn’t mean waterfall chasing has to come to an end. In fact, the Finger Lakes are home to some of the most spectacular frozen waterfalls in New York State.
As winter takes hold, freezing temperatures transform these waterfalls into dramatic frozen forms. Cascades freeze mid-fall, forming towering icicles, frozen curtains of ice, and snow-covered gorges that feel straight out of Narnia.
Some of the region’s larger, more powerful waterfalls continue to flow even during the coldest months, creating an ethereal contrast of rushing water and ice.
From completely frozen cascades to partially iced falls, seeing the frozen waterfalls in the Finger Lakes is a truly bucket-list-worthy winter experience.
About Visiting Frozen Waterfalls in the Finger Lakes
Before diving into the list of waterfalls to visit in winter, it’s important to know that not all Finger Lakes waterfalls are accessible during the colder months.
Many of the region’s gorge trails close in winter due to icy, unsafe conditions. You may have seen photos circulating online of the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail covered in ice and snow, but it’s important to note that the gorge trail at Watkins Glen State Park is closed in winter. I do not recommend attempting to hike it. The stone steps become completely iced over, and the risk simply isn’t worth it.
The good news is that there are plenty of stunning frozen waterfalls that are safely accessible in winter, and those are the ones highlighted below.
Best Time to See Frozen Waterfalls in New York
The best time to see frozen waterfalls in the region is typically from mid-January through February. These months are when New York typically sees its coldest temperatures, and the odds of seeing frozen waterfalls in the Finger Lakes increase.
I recommend visiting after a few days of deep freeze and some snowfall for optimal winter waterfall conditions.
If you’re planning a visit outside of winter, you may also want to check out my guide to the best waterfalls in the Finger Lakes, which highlights these falls during warmer months.
Best Frozen Waterfalls in the Finger Lakes
Taughanoock Falls State Park
At 215 feet tall, Taughannock Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in New York. And in winter, this single-drop waterfall is even more striking. This towering waterfall partially freezes, creating a massive column of ice framed by the sheer cliffs.
Both the gorge trail and the scenic overlook at Taughannock Falls State Park remain open year-round, making this one of the most accessible frozen waterfalls to visit.
In winter, visitors can walk along the gorge trail to reach the bridge viewpoint, which offers an incredible perspective of the partially frozen falls. Or you can stop by the Taughannock Falls Overlook for sweeping views of the partially frozen falls.
Enfield Falls
Robert H. Treman State Park is another great spot for seeing frozen waterfalls in the Finger Lakes, particularly Lower Enfield Falls. This waterfall is accessible year-round (it even becomes a popular swimming hole in summer) and is just a short walk from the parking lot, making it an easy winter stop.
In winter, Enfield Falls often forms a layered ice formation, with sections of rushing water visible behind a frozen veil. It is truly a magnificent winter sight!
P.S. The Rim Trail at Robert H. Treman State Park is also open in winter and offers a viewpoint of frozen Lucifer Falls. However, it’s more of a hike, so if you’re looking for a low-key frozen waterfall experience, Enfield Falls is the easier option.
Ithaca Falls
Ithaca Falls is conveniently located near downtown Ithaca, making it one of the easiest waterfalls to visit on this list. A bonus is that you can view the waterfall from the street, so you don’t have to venture very far from your car in the cold.
That said, if you want to get closer to the waterfall, you can follow the short footpath to the base of the falls. The base of the falls is one of the best places to take in the wide cascade frozen into a massive wall of ice.
This path is extremely slippery, so it is recommended to wear crampons when walking closer to the waterfall.
Buttermilk Falls
Buttermilk Falls is located near several other waterfalls in the Ithaca area, making it an easy addition to a Finger Lakes winter waterfall itinerary.
While Buttermilk Falls State Park is known for its scenic gorge trail, the trail itself is closed in winter. However, the lower waterfall at Buttermilk Falls remains visible year-round. This waterfall gently cascades down sloped rock into a pool below, and in winter, it often freezes into delicate, layered ice formations. The frozen cascade resembles a hillside draped in snow and ice.
While Buttermilk Falls may not have the dramatic scale of some of the larger waterfalls in the region, it’s still well worth a stop. The beauty is in the subtle textures and frozen details.
Tinker Falls
Tinker Falls is one of the most impressive and also under-the-radar frozen waterfalls in the Finger Lakes.
In winter, this 50-foot waterfall near Cortland often freezes solid, forming a uniquely blue ice formation. The color and shape are spectacular, with the waterfall appearing to have frozen mid-cascade.
One of the best parts about visiting Tinker Falls is that it’s a short walk through the woods from the parking lot. So, while you feel like you’re venturing deep into the wilderness, you’re rewarded with an incredible frozen waterfall after just a short walk on a well-maintained trail.
Letchworth State Park
Often called the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park is spectacular in winter. The park’s three major waterfalls, Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls, frequently partially freeze, creating enormous ice formations framed by snow-covered cliffs.
While technically just outside the Finger Lakes, Letchworth pairs perfectly with a Finger Lakes winter itinerary. It’s also a very drivable park, allowing you to hop in and out of your car and stay warm between waterfall viewpoints, which is a bonus on cold winter days.
In addition to the frozen waterfalls, Letchworth is also home to a rare winter phenomenon. After a few days of deep freeze, an ice volcano forms in Letchworth State Park. This ice volcano is located outside the Glen Iris Inn and can reach heights of 20 to 50 ft.
Where to Stay for a Winter Waterfall Trip
Many of the best frozen waterfalls in the Finger Lakes are centered around Ithaca, making it the ideal home base for a winter waterfall trip. Staying in Ithaca gives you easy access to multiple parks and waterfalls, while still offering a lively downtown filled with cozy cafés, restaurants, and bars, perfect for warming up after a day of winter exploring.
If you’re planning a longer trip, my Ithaca and Cortland winter itinerary is a great way to pair frozen waterfalls with cozy cafés and winter activities.
Here are my hotel recommendations:
- Argos Inn: A boutique hotel set in a historic mansion in Downtown Ithaca, offering a cozy, atmospheric stay that feels especially inviting in winter. This is where I stayed during my recent winter visit to Ithaca, and I absolutely loved the location. Check availability on Booking.com
- La Tourelle Hotel & Spa: A quieter retreat just outside the city, ideal for a peaceful place to unwind after exploring frozen waterfalls. I highly recommend booking a spa treatment after a day of exploring. Check availability on Booking.com
Tip for Visiting Finger Lakes Waterfalls in Winter
- Dress warm: Wear layers and appropriate winter outerwear, especially since gorge areas are often colder than surrounding towns.
- Wear crampons or ice cleats: Many waterfall viewpoints and paths can be icy, even on short walks.
- Check recent conditions: If you’re unsure whether waterfalls are frozen, check location tags or social media photos for up-to-date conditions.
Visit after a deep freeze: The best time to see frozen waterfalls is after several days of sustained cold temperatures.
Finger Lakes Frozen Waterfalls: Wrap-up
The Finger Lakes are home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in New York State, and winter is an especially rewarding time to experience them. As crowds thin out and temperatures drop, the region’s waterfalls transform into dramatic frozen landscapes, from towering ice columns to delicate, layered cascades.
Winter truly is a magical time to visit the frozen waterfalls of the Finger Lakes. Whether you’re taking a day trip to see the waterfalls in Letchworth or planning a full winter getaway based in Ithaca, you’ll be rewarded with striking frozen scenery, quiet trails, and a beautiful snow-covered landscape that feels completely different from any other season.
For more travel inspiration, check out these posts:
❄️ Perfect Winter Getaway in the Finger Lakes: Ithaca and Cortland
🧊 Visiting Letchworth State Park in Winter
🌊 Taughannock Falls State Park Guide: Gorge Trail + Scenic Overlook
❤️ The 15 Best Waterfalls in the Finger Lakes
For more PA travel, check out my New York section!
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