Attractions and Places To See around Montour Falls - Top 17

Montour Falls is known as the "Valley of Tumbling Waters." You can see the impressive Shequaga Falls right in the heart of downtown. Other notable waterfalls include Aunt Sarah's Falls, the tallest in the area, Deckertown Falls with its three tiers, and Eagle Cliff Falls. The village is also the focal point for seven natural glens, and Havana Glen offers waterfalls, pavilions, and a playground.

Yes, Montour Falls boasts a rich history. The Montour Falls Historic District, also known as the "Glorious T," is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features many Greek Revival buildings like the Village Hall and Montour Falls Memorial Library. You can also visit the Brick Tavern Stand, the oldest brick structure in Schuyler County, which now houses the Schuyler County Historical Society Museum. Other sites include the Queen Catharine Montour's Grave Mound and the site of the first lock of the historic Chemung Canal.

Beyond historical buildings, you can delve into the region's past at the Schuyler County Historical Society Museum (located in the Brick Tavern Museum) and the adjacent Wickham Rural Life Center, which focuses on agricultural and pre-electric home life. The Lee School Museum, an 1884 one-room schoolhouse, is also open for special events.

Montour Falls offers access to several scenic trails. The Catharine Valley Trail provides shaded paths for walking or biking between Montour Falls and Watkins Glen. For more challenging hikes, the nearby Watkins Glen State Park features trails like the Gorge Trail, which leads through Glen Creek's gorge, and the Indian Trail, offering expansive views from above the gorge. You can find more hiking options on the Hiking around Montour Falls guide.

The waterfalls in Montour Falls are beautiful year-round, but they are often at their most powerful and impressive during spring after snowmelt and heavy rains, or after significant rainfall in other seasons. The trails in Watkins Glen State Park, including the Gorge Trail, are typically open from May to November, offering the best access to those specific falls.

Yes, Montour Falls offers several family-friendly options. Havana Glen features waterfalls, pavilions, and a playground, making it a great spot for families. The easy access to Shequaga Falls right in downtown also makes it a convenient and impressive sight for all ages. Additionally, the Catharine Valley Trail is suitable for family walks or bike rides.

While Watkins Glen State Park is a must-see, if you're looking for less crowded natural experiences, consider exploring the various glens and waterfalls directly within Montour Falls. Deckertown Falls, Aunt Sarah's Falls, and Eagle Cliff Falls offer beautiful natural settings. The Catharine Valley Trail also provides a peaceful way to enjoy the area's scenery.

Many outdoor areas in Montour Falls are dog-friendly, especially trails like the Catharine Valley Trail. While specific rules for each location may vary, generally, dogs on a leash are welcome on most public trails and in parks. Always remember to check local regulations and clean up after your pet.

Shequaga Falls is highly accessible, visible directly from West Main Street in downtown Montour Falls, with a viewing platform and a small park at its base. The Montour Falls Historic District, with its well-maintained sidewalks, also allows for easy viewing of the historic architecture. For specific trail accessibility, it's best to check with individual park services, as some gorge trails can be challenging.

The 'Glorious T' refers to the distinctive intersection of West Main Street and Genesee Street in Montour Falls, forming the shape of a 'T'. This area is the heart of the Montour Falls Historic District, known for its concentration of impressive Greek Revival buildings, including the Village Hall and Montour Falls Memorial Library, many of which feature unique curved-brick Doric columns.

Rainbow Falls is a beautiful waterfall located within Watkins Glen State Park, just a short drive from Montour Falls. It's the only named waterfall in the park and is part of a beautifully engineered trail that takes you along the inside of the gorge, under a partial rock shelf, and above stepped waterfalls and circular pools. It's particularly stunning in autumn.

The Suspension bridge is located high above the gorge at Watkins Glen State Park, offering sweeping views of the deep-water river below. It provides a unique perspective of the park's natural beauty and is a popular viewpoint for visitors exploring the trails.