Lower Falls Park - Rochester, NY
Lower Falls Park – Dog-Friendly Hiking and Scenic Spots in Rochester, NY
Lower Falls Park, located at 50 Hastings St, is one of Rochester, New York’s hidden gems, especially for dog owners looking for pet-friendly trails with breathtaking waterfall views. Known for its accessible walking trails and beautiful vistas, this park allows you to take your furry friends hiking while enjoying the peaceful sound of cascading water. There’s a wheelchair accessible entrance and parking, making it easy for everyone in the family—including kids and dogs—to explore the paths and relaxing viewpoints.
While Lower Falls Park doesn’t feature a traditional fenced dog park or off-leash area, pets are welcome on-leash throughout the scenic trails. There are few park amenities, but you’ll find seating spots with a view of the water, making it a popular stop for a brief nature escape. Be aware, the park can get muddy after rain and parking may be limited, so plan ahead. Despite some maintenance concerns, Lower Falls Park remains a favorite outdoor destination for locals wanting a quiet, dog-friendly walk close to downtown Rochester.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed at this park? Yes, dogs are allowed, but must be kept on-leash.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, there is a wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot.
- Are there seating areas for owners? Yes, there are some seats/viewing areas at the park.
- Are walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park features hiking trails ideal for leashed walks with your dog.
- Is parking available? Yes, there is a parking lot, but spaces can be limited. Street parking adjacent to the lot is prohibited.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Yes, trails may become muddy especially after rain, so consider appropriate footwear.
- Is the park good for kids? Yes, the park is considered good for kids and features kid-friendly hikes.
Reviews
This place was really good we hiked around and saw the falls only down side was the bridge was under repair so couldn’t walk over the spillway.
Small park and little walking and nice Fall view. I parked at Rose garden and took a trail walk to Lower Falls. It was a bit muddy after the rain. It was an easy walk and little misty when near the fall. It was not much at the park, just some seats and the view to the water. Good for a little short walk
Absolutely love the falls. Great place for salmon fishing. Only thing to keep in mind is sometimes the parking is limited. On street parking is prohibited on the roads adjacent to the parking lot.
It has the potential to be one of the best parks in the city, but sadly it’s just another park in Rochester that decays faster than it is maintained. Still worth exploring, but the excess of trash and lack of maintenance and revitalization is saddening, and frankly, makes it impossible to immerse yourself. Perhaps one of the most upsetting things about Rochester is that it usually falls short when it comes to taking care of the beautiful spots they already have. I’ll always be perplexed by the fact that Rochester is a city that is dying for more tourism, but does not capitalize on the fact that they have two gorgeous 100-foot waterfalls right in the city.
Three stars is generous, but that’s because I’m sentimental.
A lot of people like to venture towards the bottom of the falls but the hike back up is a thigh/calf killer!! I like to sit right on top of the falls! Good place to show off to people new to Rochester Area and very peaceful place to relax if you’re a local.