Carpenter Waterfall is a stunning natural wonder located in Moravia, New York. The waterfall cascades down a steep rocky slope into a deep plunge pool below. It is one of the largest waterfalls in the Finger Lakes Region and has been declared an official state landmark by the New York State Department of Conservation.
Details about Carpenter Falls
The waterfall was named after William Carpenter, who discovered it while exploring the region in 1802. He called it “the Great Falls” and described its beauty as being “unsurpassed by any other falls he had seen”. The falls have since become an important part of local history and culture, with many visitors coming to witness their majestic beauty each year. At nearly 200 feet high, Carpenter Waterfall is undoubtedly one of the most impressive sights in all of upstate New York!
Hiking Trails at Carpenter Falls
The area features two hiking trails that lead you through peaceful forests and beside cascading waterfalls. The first trail is the Carpenter Falls Trail, which takes you on an easy 1- mile loop that passes by several smaller falls before it ends at the base of Carpenter Falls. Along the way, there are plenty of spots for taking pictures. You will also find benches along this trail if you need a break from your hike.
The second trail is called the Hemlock Trail and it offers a more challenging trek with steep inclines and declines as well as rock scrambles along its 2-mile route. This path leads hikers past some of Moravia’s most beautiful scenery including towering hemlock trees, gurgling streams, mossy boulders and vibrant wildflowers blooming in springtime. In addition to all these scenic views, this trail also provides access to hidden pools beneath Carpenter Falls where swimming can be enjoyed during warmer months.
Directions to Carpenter Falls
Address: (N 42.81174 / W 76.34309)
Directions from Syracuse: Map
1. From I-81 North or South, take Exit 11 and head east on NY Route 13 for approximately 8 miles until you reach the intersection with US Route 20.
2. Turn right onto US Route 20 and travel east for 1 mile until you come to the junction with NY State Route 38A (also known as Carpenter Falls Road).
3. Take a left onto NY State Route 38A/Carpenter Falls Road and travel north for 3 miles until you reach Carpenter Falls Park entrance on your left side (it will be clearly marked).
4. Once inside Carpenter Falls Park, follow the signs to Carpenter Waterfall. You can either park at one of the lots in the park and walk or drive further down into the park where there is another parking lot closer to waterfall itself (just keep following signs!). The trailhead starts from this second parking lot, which should be about 0.5 miles from entrance of park if you drove all way in. Once you start walking down trailhead towards waterfall, it will take around 15 minutes before reaching the base of falls.
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