LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Augerhole Falls near Paul Smiths, New York, showing about 42 feet of drop LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Nearby gauge (Raquette River) · 1,120 ft³/s · About average

Augerhole Falls

New York

By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain
Adirondack Mountains CONE · PVT

About Augerhole Falls

Augerhole Falls is a tucked-away cascade set in the forested hills of the Adirondack Mountains, offering a peaceful reward for hikers who make the short trek. The falls sit on private land within a parcel designated CONE and managed by a local NGO, so visitors should be mindful of access and practice Leave No Trace ethics. The setting is intimate and photogenic—perfect for a quiet afternoon of nature watching and photography. The approach to the falls is a pleasant woodland outing rather than a developed park attraction.

The Setting

Augerhole Falls sits at 1,516 feet within Adirondack Mountains, in the hills of New York.

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

The trail follows forested terrain and may include natural, uneven surfaces and unmarked sections—expect roots, rocks, and modest grades rather than a wide, paved corridor. No USFS trail number or official surface/grade/class data is available for this access; plan on basic backcountry footing, wear sturdy shoes, and verify permission to cross private property before you go.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a tranquil natural setting with a cascading waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The area may be remote and less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls.

Accessibility

The trail is likely not accessible for individuals with mobility challenges due to uneven terrain and lack of infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Augerhole Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Augerhole Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is likely to be at its peak due to snowmelt and rainfall.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

Visitors should be cautious of unmarked trails, slippery rocks near the waterfall, and potential wildlife encounters. Always inform someone of your plans before visiting remote areas.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 1 hour ago Low

These readings come from the USGS gauge on Raquette River, 12.9 miles away, not on Augerhole Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.

1,120 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Based on 118 years of record

5.56 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is about average for this time of year.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

USGS 04266500
12.9 miles from waterfall
Drainage: 721 sq mi
Altitude: 1,502 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge RAQUETTE RIVER AT PIERCEFIELD NY (21 km away).

Moderate confidence
Low right now
1130 cfs
→ Holding steady
21212121212121TodayTomorrowSatSunMonTueWed

Today

Low

1130 cfs

6/10

Tomorrow

Low

1151 cfs

6/10

Sat

Low

1109 cfs

6/10

Sun

Low

1077 cfs

6/10

Mon

Low

1049 cfs

6/10

Tue

Low

1088 cfs

6/10

Wed

Low

1081 cfs

6/10

Best window: Today — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to early June, 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 Paul Smiths 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.

1-meter lidar measures about 42 feet of drop in the ground within a few hundred feet of Augerhole Falls. The brink sits at about 1,515 feet above sea level.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Augerhole Falls near Paul Smiths, New York, for comparison with the lidar view LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Augerhole Falls near Paul Smiths, New York, showing about 42 feet of drop
Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation
1,515 feet
Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls
About 42 feet
Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls

Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.

Location & Access

Getting There

The exact location of Augerhole Falls is not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local hiking guides or maps for directions. It may require navigating unmarked trails or forested areas.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or roadside parking near the trailhead.

Elevation

1,516 feet above sea level

Coordinates

44.420340° N, -74.547117° W

Land Management

Adirondack Mountains CONE

Managed by NGO

Visitor Tips & Gear

Bring a detailed map or GPS device, as the trail may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and be prepared for potential muddy or uneven terrain.

Additional Information

Nearby Attractions

Nearby attractions are not well-documented, but the surrounding forest may offer additional hiking opportunities.

Wildlife

The area may host typical New York wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks and other insects.

Cities near Augerhole Falls

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