Aunt Sarahs Falls
New York • 90 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (3)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Aunt Sarahs Falls
Aunt Sarah's Falls is a picturesque roadside cascade in Montour Falls, New York, where water plunges roughly 90 feet into a cool, shaded gorge. The falls are easily admired from a roadside viewpoint and adjacent parking area, making it a perfect quick stop on a Finger Lakes loop — especially dramatic after rain when flows swell and sheets of water fan over the cliff. The setting feels intimate and verdant, with the gorge framing the drop for excellent photo opportunities without a long hike. If you want to stretch the visit beyond the pull-off view, an optional out-and-back route of about 2.4 miles round trip (with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain) turns the stop into a pleasant half-day outing. The route is rated moderate and travels through mixed terrain with several vantage points overlooking the ravine and falls. There is no USFS trail number or formal managing-trail designation for the path, so expect a more natural, informal experience rather than a heavily developed trail.
The Setting
Aunt Sarahs Falls sits at 748 feet in the foothills of New York. The falls drop 90 feet.
Height: 90 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Hector Falls (165 ft) lies 4.6 miles to the north. Also nearby: Shequaga Falls (156 ft, 0.6 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Out-and-back, approximately 2.4 miles total with about 350 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. The access beyond the roadside viewpoint follows an informal natural tread — predominantly dirt and leaf litter with occasional roots, rocks, and moderate grades on the approach and descent. There is no USFS trail name/number or official surface/grade class provided for this access, so plan for mixed, uneven footing and take care on wet or slippery sections near the gorge; sturdy shoes and caution on descent are recommended.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 90 feet. 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 Aunt Sarahs Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Aunt Sarahs Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is typically more active due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution when parking and walking near the road. The area can be slippery, especially after rain. Avoid climbing on rocks near the waterfall.
Current Water Conditions
68 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 9 years of record
3.26 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Montour Falls hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Aunt Sarah's Falls is located along Route 14 in Montour Falls, New York. It is visible from the road, making it very easy to access.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited roadside parking available near the waterfall. Visitors should exercise caution when parking and exiting their vehicles due to traffic.
Elevation
748 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.350907° N, -76.858569° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit after recent rainfall for the best water flow. Be cautious when parking and walking near the road, as traffic can be busy.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
The Anchor Inn
Lakeside Resort
Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel
The Hotel Laurel at Seneca
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Finger Lakes - Hector District
9.4 miles away · 0 sites
The Finger Lakes National Forest, positioned along the ridges between Cayuga Lake and Seneca Lake, offers scenic beauty and unlimited recreational opportunities any season of the year. Whether you are a hiker, cross country skier, camper, fishing or hunting enthusiast, snowmobiler, horseback rider, mountain biker, or wildlife watcher, the Forest can provide the recreational experience you are seeking!The most popular season is autumn when the trees and pastures are ablaze with color. Hunter ejoy
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Shequaga Falls, Watkins Glen State Park, and Seneca Lake.
Wildlife
Wildlife sightings are minimal due to the roadside location, but you may see birds or small mammals in the surrounding area.
Cities near Aunt Sarahs Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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