Eagle Cliff Falls: A Finger Lakes Hidden Gem

Eagle Cliff Falls offers a tranquil retreat into nature. It sits just outside the village of Montour Falls, New York. You find it within Havana Glen Park. This cascade is a stone’s throw from the busier trails of Watkins Glen. The spot feels like a private sanctuary. Locals cherish this place. Savvy travelers seek it out for peace and natural drama.

📍 Location & Access: Where the Cliff Meets the Creek

Eagle Cliff Falls is the centerpiece of Havana Glen Park. This park is located conveniently south of Montour Falls, New York, in Schuyler County. The waterfall is particularly appealing because it is easy to access.

• Easy Hike: The trail is a short, easy walk—less than a half-mile round trip. It begins right from the park’s parking area.

• The Path: The path follows McClure Creek through the beautiful Havana Glen gorge. It includes some metal steps and uneven bedrock. However, it suits most visitors, making it an excellent family-friendly destination.

• Entry: Havana Glen Park is privately owned. It typically charges a small entry or parking fee. The park generally opens from mid-May through mid-October. It also offers picnic and camping areas, which can extend your visit.

🗿 Geology and History: A Glimpse into Deep Time

Immense geological forces sculpted the dramatic landscape around Eagle Cliff Falls. These forces shaped the entire Finger Lakes region.

• Glacial Carving: Massive glaciers carved Havana Glen over the last 12,000 years. These glaciers turned ancient V-shaped river valleys into steep, U-shaped gorges. The waterfalls form where the water drops from a hanging valley into the main gorge.

• Layered Rock: The cliffs are massive. They include the namesake Eagle Cliff that flanks the falls. They are composed of 380-million-year-old rock layers. These layers—primarily brittle shale and denser sandstone—were once the bottom of an expansive inland ocean. The creek’s water easily erodes the softer shale. This undercuts the harder rock above. Large chunks then fall, a process that continues to form the dramatic vertical drops.

• The Cascade: The falls themselves are a sheer 41-foot plunge. The water crashes into an amphitheater-like basin called The Council Chamber.

📸 Activities and Nearby Wonders

The falls are the main draw, but the area offers plenty of ways to enjoy the natural beauty.

• Cooling Off: Wading into the refreshing pool at the base is very popular on hot days. You cannot swim in the pool, but splashing around under the cool cascade perfectly breaks the summer heat. Check park rules and watch out for slippery rocks!

• Photography: The enclosed, box-shaped gorge is stunning. Its moss-covered limestone and ferns create an almost cathedral-like setting. Photographers love this location in any season.

• Local Attractions: Eagle Cliff Falls makes an excellent stop on any Finger Lakes itinerary. It sits only about a 10-minute drive from the famous Watkins Glen State Park. You can also explore the village of Montour Falls. There, the towering She-Qua-Ga Falls runs right through the middle of town. Alternatively, try the nearby Seneca Lake Wine Trail.