Holley Canal Falls

The water flowing into the glen overflows from the Erie Canal to merge with Sandy Creek below. Even during the hottest time of year, when many waterfalls dry up, the canal ensures a constant flow of water. Holley Canal Falls, also known as Holley Falls, is situated in the heart of the Village of Holley.

The Waterfall

To get there, take Frisbee Terrace and Holley Falls Park Road from the center of the village, near the pharmacy. Once there, you can cross Sandy Creek over the footbridge and head toward the pavilion or cross over the culvert to stand right next to the falls and admire the beautiful red Medina sandstone up close. The waterfall is a gorgeous backdrop for senior pics and weddings.

This is one of our favorite roadside waterfalls—you can see it perfectly just sitting in your car.

Holley Canal Park

You can also start at Holley Canal Park above the glen. Follow the paths through the park or along the canal to the outlet. However, please note that the trail here follows the canal but it is not the official Erie Canalway Trail, which is located across the canal on the north side.

To find Holley Canal Falls from the canal path, there are a lot of confusing directions. If you are on the Erie Canalway Trail, you are on the wrong side of the canal to find the falls. Cross over the canal using the lift bridge. You will also find a lovely restroom there.

Canal Overflow

Once you’re on the canal path, you’ll follow it up to the top of Holley Canal Falls for a view of the area below. This spot is fairly easy to access, but the trail can be muddy, so please watch your step.

Hiking Trail

In general, the loop trail wraps around the park and connects the lower falls area to the upper canal area creating an easy hike a little over a mile long.

From the base of the waterfall, there are two spots to connect with the trail that leads up to the canal. You can take the footbridge across Sandy Creek and follow it off to the right. This is the quickest way to access the top of the waterfall.

Or, from the far end of the parking lot, head up the trail that leads directly to Holley Canal Park. This large green space has a pond and playground. Head toward the canal and off to the right to find the outlet and connect to the other half of the trail that leads to the top of the waterfall.

There is a third path to the left of the fall, though I’ve not yet taken it myself, and it looks to be much steeper of a climb than the other two options.

East Branch Sandy Creek

East Branch Sandy Creek flows over Clarendon Falls before making its way through Holley. From there, it continues under the canal and onward to Lake Ontario, emptying just east of Hamlin Beach State Park. You can launch a kayak from the Sandy Creek boat launch near Lake Ontario.

Holley Depot

While you’re in the area, make sure to visit the Holley Depot Museum and Historic Society. It’s only open on Sundays, so be sure to check the schedule beforehand. The museum is a fascinating structure with historical markers surrounding it, offering insight into its rich history.

More information about Holley Canal Falls

Cost: Free

Located in Holley, roughly 45 minutes / 25 miles west of Rochester (get directions)

More helpful information can be found at uncoveringnewyork.com, nyfalls.com, gowaterfalling.com, falzguy.com

Parking: If the parking area at the base of the fall is full, try the lot near the canal lift bridge on East Ave or on Geddes near the old train depot.

Have you visited Holley Canal Falls?

I’d love to hear from you—please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.