Artists Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Artists Falls
Artists Falls is a small, photogenic cascade tucked into the Adirondack Mountain Reserve Easement in upstate New York. The waterfall’s compact, serene setting makes it a favorite for photographers and hikers seeking a quiet nature stop; the site sits on privately owned land (PVT) and is managed under the Adirondack easement (Designation: FORE) by SDC. Expect mossy rock ledges and a peaceful woodland atmosphere that reward a short outing with a classic Adirondack water feature. Because the falls lie within an easement and on private property, visitors are encouraged to tread lightly and respect any posted access rules. The scene is intimate rather than dramatic, so it’s ideal for a relaxed half-day hike or a scenic detour while exploring nearby trails in the reserve.
The Setting
Artists Falls sits at 1,785 feet within Adirondack Mountain Reserve Easement, fed by the Vanderwhacker Brook Trib, in the hills of New York.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Beaver Meadows Falls (60 ft) lies 0.4 miles to the west.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The approach to Artists Falls is an out-and-back route of about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, typically rated Moderate. The trail winds through mixed woodland and approaches the stream that feeds the cascade; underfoot conditions can vary with season and weather, so expect natural dirt tread with roots and occasional rocks rather than a hardened or paved surface. No USFS trail name or number is listed for this route, and specific USFS surface/grade/class data are not provided for the path. Because the falls are on privately owned land within the Adirondack Mountain Reserve Easement (managed by SDC), stay on marked trail corridors and follow any site-specific guidelines posted by the land manager.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Artists Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Artists Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Artists Falls, as the water flow is typically stronger during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail may be slippery, especially after rain. Visitors should exercise caution near the waterfall and avoid climbing on wet rocks.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 15.2 miles away
0 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 9 years of record
0.54 ft
Water depth at gauge
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge VANDERWHACKER BROOK TRIB 1 NEAR BOREAS RIVER NY (24 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
0 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
0 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
0 cfs
4/10Best window: Wed — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to mid May, peaking in April.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Mineville hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 87 feet of drop through Artists Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 1,785 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 59 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 30 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing north, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,785 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 87 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Artists Falls is located near the town of Hunter, New York, in the Catskill Mountains. It can be accessed via local roads, but specific directions may vary depending on the trailhead used.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may be located near the trailhead. Visitors should check local signage for parking regulations.
Elevation
1,785 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.126996° N, -73.809027° W
Land Management
Managed by SDC
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be uneven in places. Bring water and a camera to capture the scenic views. Visit early in the day to avoid crowds.
Where to Stay
Lake Placid Inn Boutique Hotel
Lake Placid Inn: Main Street
Grandview Lake Placid
Lake Placid Inn: Residences
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Kaaterskill Falls, Hunter Mountain, and various hiking trails in the Catskill Mountains.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should respect the natural habitat.
Cities near Artists Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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