John Boyd Thacher State Park

Five Places to Chase Waterfalls in Albany County, New York

Don't tell TLC, but we are all about chasing waterfalls this summer.

From Cohoes to the Helderberg Hilltowns, Albany County is home to several waterfalls surrounded by stunning landscape. Scroll on to start planning an outdoor adventure to discover these hidden gems! 

Rensselaerville Falls

Rensselaerville Falls are tucked within the over 2,000 acres of forests, fields and wetlands in the Huyck Preserve. Hiking trails snake along the falls, so the natural wonder is easy to access for seasoned outdoor adventurers and novice explorers. Go on a hike and enjoy an up-close view of the 120-foot cascading waterfall. 

Cohoes Falls

Albany County boasts Cohoes Falls, the second largest waterfall in New York State! Measuring roughly 1,000 feet across and up to 90 feet high, Cohoes Falls spans the Mohawk River between Cohoes and Waterford. Venture to the four-acre Falls View Park to marvel at the impressive waterfall and spy an array of wildlife. Find the interpretive panels and signs to learn about the historical, educational and geological significance of Cohoes Falls and the Mohawk River. Falls View Park is also home to a 192-foot-long pedestrian bridge with picture-perfect views.

Wolf Creek Falls Preserve

Nestled in the Helderberg Hilltown of Knox, the Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy's Wolf Creek Falls Preserve has three miles of trails accented by streams, old stone walls and several cascading waterfalls. Embark on a hike along the Wolf Creek to discover beautiful waterfalls. This hike is doable during all four seasons, so visit during the winter for stunning frozen waterfalls or fall for gorgeous views of foliage! 

John Boyd Thacher State Park

Waterfalls are scattered throughout the 25 miles of trails at John Boyd Thacher State Park. Trek across the iconic Indian Ladder Trail for cascading waterfalls, hidden caves and unbeatable panoramic views of the Hudson-Mohawk Valleys and the Adirondack and Green Mountains. Venture out for a hike on the Paint Mine trail or Hop Field trail to stumble across waterfalls tucked within the lush landscape. Before hitting the trails, stop by the Thacher Park Visitors Center for the scoop on the extensive trail network and directions to must-see waterfalls.

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Michelle Ancona

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Michelle Ancona
Michelle Ancona is the Content Marketing Manager for Discover Albany. She grew up in Boise, Idaho and moved to the East Coast to attend Marist College. After working at several PR agencies, she joined Discover Albany to follow her passion of showcasing all the wonderful events, experiences and attractions that New York's Capital City has to offer travelers and locals alike!

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