- Open for recreation: Year-round
- Fee: Free
- Contact Information:
- DEC Region 7 Cortland Office (M-F, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM), (607) 753-3095; [email protected]
- Search, rescue, wildfire, and enforcement matters: 911- or - 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264)
A local Forest Ranger is a valuable source of information for the state land you would like to visit.
- Location: Town of Niles, Cayuga County
- Wildlife Management Unit: 7J
- Map: Carpenter Falls Unique Area Map (GeoPDF) - GeoPDF Instructions || Google Earth || DECinfo Locator
The 37-acre Carpenter Falls Unique Area was created for the purposes of recreation and watershed protection. Upper Carpenter Falls is located in the southernmost portion of the property, just off of Appletree Point Road. Lower Carpenter Falls is located in the northernmost portion of the property.
In summer 2022, DEC completed an exciting project to improve public access to Carpenter Falls and reduce long-term environmental impacts to the area. The project centered on incorporating accessibility features to offer safe and equitable access to all site visitors. New site features include an elevated boardwalk and observation platform; a bicycle rack for cyclists; and stone stairs to the base of the Upper Falls.
The new elevated boardwalk and viewing platform are constructed to be accessible to people with disabilities, allowing all visitors the opportunity to traverse through the forest to view this spectacular waterfall.
DEC asks you to help protect the sensitive natural resources and reduce conflicts with other users. Please:
- No swimming or bathing
- Stay on designated trails at all times
- No camping
- No use of fire, including for heating or cooking
- Safely restrain dogs at all times
- No bicycles, skateboards, or inline skates on the boardwalk or trails
- No horseback riding