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Chittenango Falls State Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 2,943 Google reviews · Running trail in Cazenovia, New York · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
We have not been able to confirm the surface, distance or shape of Chittenango Falls State Park yet from its own listing, the park's website or runner reviews — so those cells stay blank rather than guess. What is below comes straight from the listing and from reviewers' own words. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Winding gorge trails & a footbridge offer views of a 167-ft. waterfall, with areas for picnics.
What runners say about Chittenango Falls State Park
“One side of the trail is well-maintained with stairs leading down to the base, while the other side is a bit more rugged and adventurous, with a fun scramble over rocks.”
“The cascading waterfalls are absolutely stunning, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil sounds of rushing water.”
“The hike around the falls is a delightful adventure—well-marked trails that wind through vibrant forest, offering scenic viewpoints and peaceful spots to enjoy the scenery.”
“The hike around the falls is a delightful adventure—well-marked trails that wind through vibrant forest, offering scenic viewpoints and peaceful spots to enjoy the scenery.”
“Even with the rain, we saw lots of people of all ages and sizes going down and up.”
Beautiful! Spectacular! Amazing! Moderate hike. Very steep. Lots of stairs in uneven pathways. There is a sidewalk trail called creekside. Go on that one if you have limitations with with mobility.
Chittenango Falls State Park is a gem! The main attraction is the gorgeous waterfall and river, and it’s absolutely worth the visit. The park has a nice playground with picnic tables and charcoal grills, plus plenty of grassy space to spread out and relax.
This park is very well maintained, and the hike to the base of the falls is super short easy. I highly recommend swinging by here if you're in the area! You can see the whole park within an hour if you wanted to.
I hadn't been in more than 10 years, but it was so nice to spend time on Memorial Day with my family. It's close to Syracuse and other parts of Upstate/Central New York. NATURAL beauty, only 6 dollar parking and free if you have the state veteran card.
Trail conditions & character
“The waterfall was very nice but it’s fenced off everywhere on the top and bottom so don’t expect to get too close or be able to get in the water.”
“You can stop by in the free parking lot walk less than 10 minutes to the overlook area and just admire the waterfall from up there .”
“Very quick hike, the incline and decline is very fast but over quick.”
“There are bathrooms on-site, and while the parking lot is on the smaller side, it’s easy to navigate.”
“📷The trail could use a little work, and there are many steps so not as accessible as some trails.”
“The hike around the falls is a delightful adventure—well-marked trails that wind through vibrant forest, offering scenic viewpoints and peaceful spots to enjoy the scenery.”
“The hike around the falls is a delightful adventure—well-marked trails that wind through vibrant forest, offering scenic viewpoints and peaceful spots to enjoy the scenery.”
Plan your run at Chittenango Falls State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websiteparks.ny.gov
- Phone(315) 423-3744
Running trails near Cazenovia
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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