There are three waterfalls on the Genesee River that are found in downtown Rochester, New York (Lower, Middle, and High Falls), and High Falls is the most scenic of the three. There is a beauty that comes from seeing how humans have interacted with waterfalls, and it’s especially true here.

Once you find parking, High Falls is very easy to view, as there is a pedestrian bridge that crosses the river. You can get many different views of the falls from the bridge. From the bridge, I think you can see remnants of other bridges down below in the river.

Directions:

1. From I-490, you’re going to want to exit and get to State St.
2. On State St., there will be a parking garage for High Falls. If you are driving south on State St., the parking garage will be on your left. I believe the parking was free when I was there, though there may be a cost at certain times.
3. From the parking area, walk toward the river and historic district. As you are walking toward the river, you will pass a High Falls “Museum and Gift Shop”, which has some interesting history in it.
4. The falls will be best viewed from the pedestrian bridge.

Accessibility: 10/10 (easy)
Height: 96′
Length of Hike: 0.3 miles round-trip

High Falls in May 2009

Where in the World is High Falls?