In the heat of summer, some of these creeks and rivers have extremely low water volume. But after heavy rains or quick snow-melts, they rage, offering a spectacular multi-sensory experience.
Beware, there is the potential for land devastation and personal safety threats—always proceed cautiously. It’s a stark reminder of the immense power of water.
During and after a heavy rain storm, many of the gorge trails will close, as well as roads, if an area is hit hard with several inches of rainfall over a short period of time. Be mindful of the potential for flash flooding.
1. Letchworth
Castile
Letchworth is well known for the three major falls, but after heavy rains, the ones you don’t typically notice come alive!
There are micro-falls throughout the park that come to life when their tributaries overflow.
The Genesee River and Wolf Creek are great places to start, letting the others surprise you with their presence.
2. High Falls
City of Rochester
There are several vantage points to experience the mighty Genesee flowing over High Falls, including the pedestrian bridge, several viewing platforms on both sides of the river, and atop the Genesee Brew House restaurant.
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High Falls on the Genesee River
High Falls is the name of the waterfall, the neighboring historic district, and the future Rochester High Falls State Park.
3. Lower Falls
City of Rochester
Experience the power of the Genesee River from this vantage point on the Driving Park bridge or from Lower Falls Park.
4. Papermill Falls
Avon
Papermill is a fairly secluded fall on Conesus Creek.
5. Corbett’s Glen
Brighton
There are a few waterfalls and cascades to enjoy along Allen’s Creek through Corbett’s Glen, including Tunnel Falls and Postcard Falls.
6. Irondequoit Creek
Penfield
Irondequoit Creek passes through three Monroe County Parks, starting just outside Powder Mills Park and then through Ellison Park and Lucien Morin Park on its way to Irondequoit Bay. Along the way, it picks up more water from tributaries like Thomas Creek, Mill Creek, and Allen’s Creek.
Our favorite place to enjoy the creek after heavy rains is in Channing H. Philbrick (Linear) Park.
7. Honeoye Creek
Honeoye Falls
Check out the flow over the village fall and the rush of the creek through Rotary Park.
8. Holley Canal Falls
Holley
The fall is produced with runoff from the Erie Canal above, making this glen a perfect spot to visit after heavy rains.
The East Branch Sandy Creek flows through this park as well, flowing out under the canal on its way north to Hamlin and emptying into Lake Ontario.
9. Glen Park Falls
Williamsville
Ellicott Creek runs through this exceptional town park over the fall, which rage after heavy rains.
10. Taughannock Falls
Trumansburg
Walk the gorge trail to stand at the bottom of the fall to experience its power.
If the gorge trail is closed due to heavy rains, you can still enjoy the spectacular view from the observation point outside the state park.
11. Watkins Glen
Watkins Glen
If the state park gorge trail remains open, it will be a rewarding experience to see (and feel) the increased water flow through the glen.
12. Shequaga Falls
Montour Falls
While you’re visiting Watkins Glen, take a 5-minute drive south to Montour Falls.
This fall on Shequaga Creek is absolutely worth the trip to see after heavy rains. As you can tell from the photo above, there is barely a trickle during the dry season. But I’ve seen photos of the creek raging that are powerful and worth seeing for yourself.
13. Aunt Sarah’s Falls
Montour Falls
Also 5 minutes south of Watkins Glen, Aunt Sarah’s is a roadside waterfall flowing from an unnamed tributary. This photo was taken during one of the dry seasons, but you have to see it when it rains! The mist can cover NY-14, evoking a car-wash feeling.
14. Akron Falls
Akron
From the observation deck above Murder Creek, you can enjoy the powerful flow through Akron Falls Park.
15. Buttermilk Falls
Ithaca
They may close the gorge trail through Buttermilk Creek State Park, but the main fall is next to the road and parking lot. No hiking is required to appreciate its powerful beauty.
16. Stony Brook
Dansville
As with Watkins Glen, Stony Brook offers an amazing experience with the increased water flow so long as the gorge trail remains open.
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Where are your favorite waterfalls and creeks to visit after heavy rains?
Your insights and experiences are valuable. Please share them in the comments.
People often ask me if I get free access to places while exploring. The answer is no unless I’m invited to previews or granted behind-the-scenes access as part of my media role. Generally, I don’t mention my project, Day Trips Around Rochester, NY, because I want the same experience you would have. I create and share content simply because it brings me joy. I would appreciate your support—a cup of coffee or two to help fuel future field trips—if you have found valuable information here that has helped you explore the Rochester area.
