11 Must-See Waterfalls In and Around Central New York

The famous song from TLC urges Don't go chasing waterfalls. But, why not? Especially with the abundance of great cataracts near Central New York.

Everyone knows about Niagara Falls in Western New York, just a short ride from Buffalo at the edge of the U.S.-Canadian border. The spectacular and famous falls has been an attraction for lovers and others for years. But Niagara Falls is not the only cataract worth seeing...and there are others that are much closer to Central New York. Here's our definitive list of the 11 Must-See Waterfalls In and Around Central New York:

• Letchworth State Park, "the Grand Canyon of the East," near Rochester.
• Watkins Glen State Park, featuring Rainbow Falls, near Ithaca.
• Taughannock Falls, in Ithaca, has a waterfall three stories taller than Niagara Falls.
• Buttermilk Falls State Park, also in the Ithaca area, has a natural pool at the base of the falls which doubles as a great swimming hole.
• The waterfall pool at the Robert H. Treman State Park in Ithaca includes a diving board for swimmers.
• Chittenango Falls State Park features a pedestrian bridge that provides a fantastic view of its cataract.
• High Falls Gorge in the Adirondacks has four awesome waterfalls.
• Ausable Chasm in the Adirondacks is known as "the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks," and includes walking trails and unique ancient rock formations. Plus, how do you beat that name?
• A different High Falls is part of the High Falls District in Rochester, right next to the Genesee Brew House. So...waterfall plus beer equals win-win.
• OK Slip Falls in the Adirondack Park. Pro tip: Hike to the falls in the morning before the crowds arrive, and also to take advantage of the great lighting for photographs.
• The 110-foot Salmon River Falls in Oswego County features three parallel sections that can be seen from two overlooks on the Falls Trail.

Happy waterfalling.