Explore the Breathtaking Cooks Falls Waterfall in New York's Finger Lakes Region

The Majestic Cooks Falls Waterfall in New York

Tucked away in the scenic Finger Lakes region of New York lies a stunning hidden gem that is a must-see for any waterfall lover. Cooks Falls, located just outside the charming town of Ithaca in Cortland County, is an impressive waterfall that cascades 165 feet into a plunge pool below. Even more remarkable, this fan-style waterfall actually widens as it descends, creating a truly breathtaking sight.

The Surrounding Buttermilk Falls Park

Cooks Falls is situated within the stunning Buttermilk Falls Park, where visitors can explore miles of hiking trails that provide views of smaller cascades and gorges along Buttermilk Creek. The park gets its name from another waterfall, the equally-beautiful Buttermilk Falls, which sports its own swimming hole at the base.

On a typical day when water levels are lower, swimming and wading in the pool below Cooks Falls is a popular pastime for visitors. However, after heavy rainfalls, the high water volume and strong currents make swimming dangerous, so use caution if attempting to take a dip after stormy weather.

The Best Time to Visit Cooks Falls

One of the perks of Cooks Falls is that impressive flow year-round, although late spring and early summer tend to be the best times to visit when snow melt and spring showers maximize its power. The falls tend to be most crowded on summer weekends when the weather is nice and swimming below the falls is safest.

Those seeking solitude may want to plan trips mid-week in the spring and fall. Just be prepared for brisk temperatures and bring proper layers if visiting during the cooler months when icy spray off the falls can make the observation areas quite chilly!

Vantage Points for Viewing

There are several vantage points from which to view Cooks Falls. Some of the best are from atop the falls themselves by hiking down the gorge trail, although use extreme caution in this area as the terrain is steep and slippery in spots. For those not wanting to navigate the gorge hike, an overhead observation deck also provides breathtaking views looking down the full 165-foot plunge of the falls.

No matter where you view them from, Cooks Falls is guaranteed to impress with its raw, cascading power. The width and Fan shape only add to its awesomeness, creating mesmerizing movement and interesting contrasts to many of the narrower falls found throughout the Finger Lakes gorge trail system.

More Incredible Waterfalls Near Cooks Falls

Cooks Falls is undoubtedly a showstopper, but it's far from the only waterfall in Central New York worth exploring. The Finger Lakes region is full of gorgeous falls, many of which are just a short drive from Cooks Falls within Buttermilk Falls Park or on adjoining state land.

Buttermilk Falls

As referenced earlier, the scenic Buttermilk Falls that gives the park its name is just a short walk from the base of Cooks Falls. This smaller waterfall drops gently in a series of cascades totaling 165 feet in height, with a large pool at the base perfect for swimming and wading on warm summer days.

Bear Cub Falls and Triple Falls

A moderate 1-mile hike farther up the gorge trail leads to two side-by-side falls, Bear Cub Falls and Triple Falls. Bear Cub is aptly named for the way it tumbles vertically like a playful bear cub, while Triple Falls splits into three separate plunges as it descends the gorge wall.

Lucifer Falls

One of the tallest falls in the area at 115 feet tall, Lucifer Falls gets its devilish name from an illusion that makes it appear that the water is flowing uphill. It's located just a 20-minute hike from the main parking area, making it easy to tack on a visit after seeing Cooks Falls.

With so many amazing falls concentrated within a small area, it's no wonder this section of New York is a favorite destination for waterfall chasers. The power and beauty of falling water simply has no rival, and nature has sculpted an exceptionally gorgeous showcase of cascades and cataracts throughout the Finger Lakes gorges that should not be missed.

Planning Your Visit to See Cooks Falls

If spectacular waterfalls like Cooks Falls seem right up your alley, start planning your Finger Lakes waterfall adventure today! Be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out, as rain and snowmelt can make trails slippery and change waterfall dynamics. The falls may still be frozen or only a trickle in late winter/early spring.

Bring sturdy hiking shoes with good traction, a water bottle, camera gear, and a waterproof jacket or layers you can take on and off. Be prepared for cool temps in the shady gorges even when other areas are warm. And of course, use extreme caution near ledges, steep drop-offs, and slick rocks when viewing the falls up close.

With a little preparation and common sense, you're sure to have an incredible experience marveling at these natural wonders. Just don't forget a spare change of clothes for when you inevitably get at least a little wet from the ever-present cascade mist!

#ithaca #nywaterfalls #chasingwaterfalls2023

FAQs

Where exactly is Cooks Falls located?

Cooks Falls is located in Buttermilk Falls Park just west of Ithaca, New York in Cortland County. The specific address is 112 E Buttermilk Falls Road, Ithaca, NY 14850.

What is the best time of year to see Cooks Falls?

The best times to see Cooks Falls are in early summer when snowmelt and spring rains maximize the waterfall's flow or mid-to-late spring when the temperatures are milder. Summer weekends tend to be more crowded.

Is it safe to swim in the plunge pool below the falls?

Yes, swimming below Cooks Falls is permitted when water levels are low enough to be safe. Use extreme caution after heavy rains or snowmelt when the current becomes too dangerous for swimming.

What should I wear and bring when visiting the falls?

Bring sturdy hiking shoes with good traction, layers of clothing that can be added/removed, a waterproof jacket, a camera, and plenty of drinking water. Temperatures in the shady gorges stay cool even when it's hot outside.