Quick answer: the best waterfall hikes near New York City include Hemlock Falls in New Jersey’s South Mountain Reservation (about 25 ft, under an hour from Manhattan), the Great Falls in Paterson (77 ft, an easy urban visit), the waterfalls of the Delaware Water Gap such as Buttermilk Falls, Dingmans Falls and Raymondskill Falls (about 1.5–2 hours away), and Kaaterskill Falls in the Catskills (about 260 ft, roughly 2.5 hours away). Go after rain or snowmelt for the best flow.
Waterfalls near NYC at a glance
| Waterfall | State | Height | Hike | Approx. drive from Manhattan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hemlock Falls | NJ | ~25 ft | ~1.6-mile loop, easy–moderate | ~45 min |
| Paterson Great Falls | NJ | 77 ft | Short walk; paved overlooks | ~30–45 min |
| Buttermilk Falls (Walpack) | NJ | Tall cascade, often called NJ’s highest | Short walk to base; longer hike above | ~1.5–2 hr |
| Dingmans Falls | PA | ~130 ft | Boardwalk path, easy | ~1.5–2 hr |
| Raymondskill Falls | PA | Tiered falls, among PA’s tallest | Short but steep trail | ~1.5–2 hr |
| Bushkill Falls | PA | Series of falls | Boardwalk trails; private park with entry fee | ~1.75 hr |
| Kaaterskill Falls | NY | ~260 ft in two drops | ~1–1.5 mile return to viewing platform | ~2.5 hr |
Closest and easiest
Hemlock Falls, South Mountain Reservation (NJ)
A pretty 25-ft waterfall in a rocky gorge, reached on a short lollipop loop from the Tulip Springs parking area on the yellow-blazed Lenape Trail. It’s reachable by NJ Transit to Millburn, making it one of the easiest waterfall trips from the city. Full details in our Hemlock Falls trail guide.
Paterson Great Falls (NJ)
One of the largest waterfalls in the eastern US by volume, the 77-ft Great Falls of the Passaic River sits within Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park. It’s more of a walk than a hike, with overlooks and a footbridge over the gorge, and it’s ideal for families or a quick visit.
Delaware Water Gap waterfalls (NJ and PA)
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area has a cluster of waterfalls that make a great full-day trip. Buttermilk Falls on the New Jersey side is a tall cascade often described as the state’s highest. Across the river in Pennsylvania, Dingmans Falls (about 130 ft) is reached on an easy boardwalk, and Raymondskill Falls is a dramatic tiered waterfall with a short, steep trail. Roads and trails here sometimes close for repairs, so check NPS alerts before you go. Nearby Bushkill Falls is a privately run park with an entry fee and a network of boardwalk trails.
Kaaterskill Falls (Catskills, NY)
At around 260 ft in two drops, Kaaterskill Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in New York and was a favourite of Hudson River School painters. Use the official trail and viewing platform from the upper parking area: leaving the trail and climbing near the falls has caused serious accidents.
Tips for waterfall hikes
- Visit after rain or in spring for the strongest flow; summer droughts can reduce falls to a trickle.
- Wear shoes with good grip: rocks near falls are wet and slippery all year.
- Never climb on the falls or swim above drops.
- Bring microspikes in winter for icy steps and boardwalks.
- Arrive early on weekends; small parking areas fill quickly.
Frequently asked questions
What is the closest waterfall hike to NYC?
Paterson Great Falls and Hemlock Falls in South Mountain Reservation are both under an hour from Manhattan.
Can you reach a waterfall hike near NYC by train?
Yes. Hemlock Falls is a walk from NJ Transit stations in Millburn and South Orange, and Paterson is reachable by NJ Transit.
When are waterfalls best near NYC?
Spring and after heavy rain. Autumn adds foliage; winter can bring frozen falls.
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Hi, I am Emam Hasan — founder and editor of BrokeMountain. I oversee this blog’s hiking, camping and outdoor gear guides, making sure every article is well-researched, accurate and genuinely helpful for your time on the trail. Enjoy it!
