Austin Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Austin Falls
Austin Falls is a scenic waterfall in New York’s Adirondack region where water tumbles over rocky ledges, making it a favorite stop for photographers and hikers seeking a compact, scenic cascade. Framed by mixed forest, the falls offer a peaceful spot to enjoy the sound of falling water without a long backcountry commitment. The access route lies within the IP Easement A - Speculator Tree Farm and is managed by SDC, so visitors should be respectful of the easement lands. The most common approach is a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail that climbs about 350 feet and is rated moderate; expect a short, concentrated effort to reach the viewing area. Short sections near the falls can be uneven or muddy after rain, so sturdy footwear and basic trail caution are recommended.
The Setting
Austin Falls sits at 1,519 feet within IP Easement A - Speculator Tree Farm, fed by the Sacandaga River, in the hills of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back. Length: 2.4 miles round trip. Elevation gain: approximately 350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. Official USFS trail name/number and detailed USFS surface/grade/class data are not provided for this route; the approach is an unpaved footpath with brief uneven or muddy sections, especially after wet weather. Hikers should plan for moderate grades on the climb and bring appropriate footwear and water.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Austin Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Austin Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, adding to the scenic appeal.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution around the falls, as rocks can be slippery and the water current may be strong. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or icy conditions.
Current Water Conditions
132 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
1.63 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SACANDAGA RIVER NEAR HOPE NY (16 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
139 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
131 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
141 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
161 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
173 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
180 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
180 cfs
4/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to late 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 Speculator 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 shows the creek losing roughly 73 feet through Austin Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,523 feet.
The ground changes about 25 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 63 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing south, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,523 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 73 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Austin Falls is located off Route 30 near the town of Wells, New York. The falls can be accessed via a short walk from the roadside.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited roadside parking available near the falls. Visitors should ensure their vehicles are parked safely and not obstructing traffic.
Elevation
1,519 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.501455° N, -74.279306° W
Land Management
Managed by SDC
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the area around the falls can be slippery. Visit during the spring or after rainfall for the most impressive water flow. Be cautious of wet rocks and swift currents near the falls.
Where to Stay
Adirondack Waterfront Cabin Upper Hudson Tributary
The Alpine Lodge
Motel Luzerne
The Elms Waterfront Cottages
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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the town of Wells, other waterfalls in the Adirondacks, and hiking trails in the surrounding area.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter insects such as mosquitoes and black flies, especially in warmer months.
Cities near Austin Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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