Chittnango Falls has been a popular place for many years. I have to say that it was more popular back in the day when people actually wanted to go somewhere outside of the home. My first experience at the falls was at least 15 years ago for a church youth group event on Memorial Day. So we decided to take our first trip as to the falls as a family. It was a 50 minute drive for us but we also took a pit stop for dinner in Cazenovia for some Caz Pizza. After some delicious pizza and wings we drove 10 minutes to the falls for a short walk.
Once at the parking lot I noticed a parking meter which stood in the center. There were no instructions except to pay by inserting a credit card. There were about half a dozen cars in the lot. And a couple cars that pulled in at the same time as us which opted not to pay. The parking lot meter didn't appear to be enforced really well.
A few displays discussed the history and the uniqueness of the area. There are definitely several long trails associated with park but we came for the falls experience and not a major hike. My kids are still recovering psychologically from there last 6.6 mile hike in the ADK.
The first overlook started at the top of the falls. The 167 foot drop off was more impressive then I previously remembered it. The trail then follows a fence line to the left of the falls as it descends steeply. The trail is a combination of concrete stairs, loose gravel and some wooden planks/stairs. Sneakers are the best choice of footwear and the area is very slippery when wet.
Second overlook
The best seat in the house
The kids saw a small playground and really wanted to check it out after the short 0.5 mile hike. On the return trip, the parking lot was almost empty.
It may be hard to notice the disappointed face on Adrian, but the entire playground consists of two things and another section of sand and swings. The disappointment was severe and we never made it to the other sections. The landing was so high off the ground on the slide that parental assistance was a needed for the younger kids.
It was nice driving out to the falls via Cazenovia, and on the way back we went through Manlius and both routes were very scenic. Plenty of steep hills to go over and the kids loved the "roller coaster" experience.
Overall the experience was worth the short drive and a great way to spend some time with a family in a nice location.
