About Taughannock Falls
Taughannock Falls is a named waterfall in Tompkins County, New York, located about 2.9 miles east of Trumansburg. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Ludlowville 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 42°32′08″ N, 76°36′39″ W (42.53563, -76.61078). Historical sources also record the names Taghanic Falls, Taughanick Falls, Taghkanic Falls, Taughanic Falls, and Taughkanic Falls. Named features close by in the federal gazetteer include Cold Spring Branch (stream, 0.4 mi), Taughannock Creek (stream, 1.1 mi), and Trumansburg Creek (stream, 1.8 mi). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Ithaca Falls, 8.3 miles to the southeast.
Towering waterfall in Taughannock Falls State Park that can be seen from several hiking trails.
More Photos
1,173 visitor photos are available on the Google Maps listing.
Weather at Taughannock Falls
Full NWS forecastForecast for the waterfall's exact location, not the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly.
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Source: National Weather Service.
Conditions at Taughannock Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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Times in New York time. Canyons and steep valleys lose direct sun earlier.
Elevation
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At the mapped waterfall point, from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Expect cooler temperatures than in nearby towns at lower elevation.
Nearest Stream Gauge
Checking for USGS gauges within about 8 miles...
Live discharge in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The gauge may be on a different stream than the falls; use the trend as a rough guide to how much water is running in the area.
Map and Directions
The marker shows the USGS-recorded position of Taughannock Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Visitor Ratings
Taughannock Falls holds a 4.9 average from 367 Google reviews. Distribution by star rating:
Named Landmarks Nearby
These named features from the USGS Geographic Names Information System lie within two miles of Taughannock Falls. Stream positions mark the stream's mouth as recorded by USGS.
- Cold Spring Branch — stream, 0.4 mi
- Taughannock Creek — stream, 1.1 mi
- Trumansburg Creek — stream, 1.8 mi
Before You Visit
- Water levels change quickly. Flow is usually strongest after rain and during snowmelt; see the best time to visit waterfalls.
- Stay back from the brink and off wet rock. Our waterfall safety guide covers the most common hazards.
- Check land ownership and access before you go. Some named falls sit on private property or in areas without a maintained trail.
- Download offline maps and save the coordinates 42.53563, -76.61078. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Taughannock Falls
- Clifton Falls, NY15 mi north
- Parson Falls, NY15 mi northeast
- Hector Falls, NY15 mi southwest
- Glenora Falls, NY16 mi west
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Taughannock Falls located?
Taughannock Falls is in Tompkins County, New York, about 2.9 miles east of Trumansburg. Its coordinates are 42.53563, -76.61078 (42°32′08″ N, 76°36′39″ W).
What town is closest to Taughannock Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Trumansburg, NY, about 2.9 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Taughannock Falls?
The closest is Ithaca Falls (8.3 mi southeast). Others within reach include Lucifer Falls (9.4 mi), Oak Tree Falls (11 mi), and Hosmer Falls (12 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Taughannock Falls?
Taughannock Falls appears on the USGS Ludlowville 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.