Exciting hiking trails, scenic towns, and towering mountains are some things the Catskills is known for, but that’s not all there is to find in this adventurous part of New York. There are also impressive waterfalls, many of which rise several meters high and pour out an abundance of showers. Many of these waterfalls can only be accessed through hiking trails which means one will enjoy a nice adventure and also be presented with a refreshing view and a cool swim at the end of the hike. Even though one does not wish to do or see anything much, these waterfalls alone are worth a visit to the Catskills.
10 Tompkins Falls
Tompkins falls is not just beautiful but less crowded and easily accessible. The waterfall is located in the Andes, within the Delaware Wild Forest, and it is characterized by several rocks with water flowing over them to the drops and the scenic stream. Surrounding Tompkins falls are lush forests that make the views here even more natural. Tompkins Falls is also quite easy to see, as one can easily get views of the falls from Barkaboom Road.
9 Diamond Notch Falls
The beautiful Diamond Notch Falls is one that offers both scenery and adventure. The falls located in West Kill rise to a height of 15 feet and flows into a scenic lake, although visitors have to overcome a two-mile hike before they can enjoy the views of this waterfall. The Diamond Notch Trail begins from the end of Spruceton Road and leads right to the best place to watch the waterfall.
8 Glen Falls
Glen Falls is located in Round Top and is one of the most scenic waterfalls in the Catskills region. The waterfall flows on rocks creating three different falls and refreshing swimming holes where one can relax and enjoy the scenery of the triple-headed waterfall and the surrounding lush forest. This waterfall is close to the Glen Falls House, which means those in the area will also enjoy exciting hiking trails, restaurants, and lots of entertainment.
7 Fawns Leap Falls
Fawns Leap Waterfall is one unique waterfall to visit in the Catskills. The waterfall located in Kaaterskill Clove flows through the unique rock formations, creating a scenic and crystal clear swimming stream that is also nestled with several rocks. Besides the unique scenery, one can enjoy this waterfall. It is also a great place to cool off and enjoy some cliff-jumping adventures.
6 Nevele Falls
Nevele Falls is a little waterfall in the Catskills region that combines unique rock formations with beautiful green vegetation to create an impressive view. The waterfall is located near Ellenville, and while the surrounding trees are scenic at all times, they are particularly gorgeous during Fall as the leaves glow in yellow, red, and orange colors.
5 Old Mill Falls
Old Mill Falls is easier to get to as it is the first Waterfall on Plattekill Creek. Even though this fall may only be 16 feet tall, the natural views are impressive, especially at high flows, which is usually during the Autumn months. This is also the time to witness the golden scenery of the waterfall.
4 Artist Falls
Artist Falls is a lesser-known waterfall in the Catskills that offers scenery and little to no crowds. The 25 feet waterfall is located near Winter Clove Inn and what makes it impressive is the surrounding rock formations, the beautiful Alfred Clark Covered Bride that stands above it, and the scenic lake at its foot.
3 Vernooy Kill Falls
The Vernooy Kills Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Catskills. It is located in the town of Rochester, and while it may not rise high like many waterfalls in the region, Vernooy Kills Falls is scenic, and it features a powerful flow that cascades down the rocks in four stages. A short trail leads to the footbridge, which is the perfect place to see the waterfall.
2 Plattekill Falls
Plattekill Falls is one of the waterfalls located in Plattekill Cove Preserve. At the height of 90 feet (27 m), this waterfall is an impressive sight to behold, especially at high flows. A short trail leads to the base of the waterfall, where there is a scenic pool, although swimming is not allowed here.
1 Kaaterskill Falls
There are so many waterfalls in the Catskills, but none compares to Kaaterskill Falls. At the height of 260 feet, it is the tallest waterfall in the entire state of New York. The waterfall features two levels, each with a powerful flow and a high drop. Besides its impressive height, Kaaterskill Falls is also surrounded by a dense rainforest which adds to its natural appeal. The trail to the waterfall is just 1.4 miles long, but the hike can be difficult as the trail features slippery rocks. The fact that this waterfall is one of the oldest and most attractions in the country also makes it worth visiting at least once.