Adventure brief
Taughannock - One Hour Rental
Paddle-N-More’s one-hour watercraft rental near Taughannock Falls offers quick access to Cayuga Lake’s scenic shoreline. Discover an easy and rewarding way to engage with this iconic natural destination on kayak or paddleboard.
Taughannock Falls State Park, located in Ulysses, New York, offers a remarkable water adventure framed by one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rockies. Paddle-N-More taps into this stunning natural setting to provide accessible, reliable water sport rentals allowing visitors to engage with the park’s Cayuga Lake shoreline on their own terms. Whether you choose a single or tandem kayak or try your hand at a paddleboard, the opportunities for adventure and connection to the water are just a paddle away.
This one-hour rental is designed for visitors who want a quick yet satisfying taste of paddling amidst nature’s impressive features. The waterfall itself plunges nearly 215 feet along a dramatic gorge carved from Devonian shale and sandstone, making the area a geological standout. The calm shores and expansive views across Cayuga Lake create a unique backdrop to glide through serene waters.
Paddle-N-More stands out in the region for its straightforward rental process: book online to reserve a watercraft in advance with no hidden fees, ensuring your time on the water is hassle-free. Their clear and fair policies about late returns and equipment care add confidence, especially for first-timers or families. The launch site at 17389 NY-89 in Trumansburg places adventurers steps from the lake, enabling immediate immersion into the natural environment.
The location’s ecosystems feature a mix of hardwood forests and wetland habitats, supporting diverse bird species and aquatic life. Paddle-N-More’s presence encourages sustainable outdoor recreation, emphasizing careful use of waterways to protect this fragile environment. For those visiting Ithaca or nearby, this rental experience offers a hands-on way to appreciate the Finger Lakes’ scenic and recreational wealth without the demands of a full-day trip.
If you’re packing for a short, invigorating paddle framed by breathtaking waterfalls and vast lake views, Paddle-N-More’s Taughannock Falls rentals offer a balanced blend of accessibility, natural grandeur, and waterborne fun.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Book Aheadessential
Reservations guarantee your watercraft, especially important on weekends and holidays when demand spikes.
- 02Return on Timewarning
Late returns incur fees—plan your outing carefully to enjoy the full hour and avoid additional charges.
- 03Bring a Personal Flotation Deviceinfo
Though provided, having your own ensures comfort and proper fit for safety on the water.
- 04Stay Within Designated Areasessential
Stick close to shoreline zones for safety and to avoid retrieval fees if equipment is lost.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Water shoes
Protects feet from rocky shorelines and improves traction when launching or landing your watercraft.
summerEssentialSunscreen
Essential for protecting exposed skin during sunny water outings.
summerEssentialWindbreaker
Helps block wind chills on the lake, especially during cooler transitional months.
spring|fallDry bag
Keeps personal items like phones and snacks dry while on the water.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Sunken islands near Cayuga Lake’s shore that are perfect for wildlife spotting, Quiet inlets along the lake offering secluded picnic spots accessible only by watercraft
Local fauna
Bald eagles often soar above the gorge near Taughannock Falls, Turtles bask on logs and rocks in calmer waters close to the shoreline
Historic heritage
Taughannock Falls area has been a gathering place for Indigenous peoples and later became a preserved state park in 1925, emphasizing conservation of its unique gorge environment.
Mindful exploration
Paddle-N-More encourages low-impact recreation, promoting careful equipment use and educating visitors on minimizing disturbance to aquatic ecosystems.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- The lake’s southern shore from launch sites, Across from the base of Taughannock Falls for dramatic compositions, Along quieter coves and inlets for serene water scenes
- Subjects
- Watercraft gliding through glassy water, The towering waterfall and gorge walls, Local wildlife such as birds or turtles
- Best times
- Early morning for soft light, Golden hour just before sunset, Midday for clear water reflections
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Can I book a rental on the spot without a reservation?
Walk-ins are welcome but securing a rental in advance is highly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays, to guarantee availability.
What happens if I return the watercraft late?
Late returns incur additional fees, so please plan your outing to return on time and avoid extra charges.
Are life jackets included with the rental?
Yes, life jackets are provided with all rentals to ensure your safety on the water.
Is prior paddling experience necessary?
No prior experience is required, but basic paddling skills and comfort on the water are helpful.
What safety measures should I follow while paddling?
Stay within designated rental areas, wear a life jacket, and avoid paddling alone if you’re inexperienced.
Are pets allowed on the rentals?
Policies regarding pets vary—please check directly with Paddle-N-More before planning to bring your pet.