Black River Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Black River Falls
Black River Falls tumbles over a rocky ledge into a small plunge pool, set amid a quietly wooded valley that makes it a favorite for photographers and hikers seeking a classic slice of Vermont scenery. A short lookout above the cascade provides close-up views and the steady roar of falling water, while the surrounding hardwood forest and mossy boulders create an inviting, picture-ready backdrop for a morning or afternoon outing. The falls are reached via a moderate out-and-back hike of 2.4 miles round-trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain, so plan for a steady but rewarding walk. Sturdy footwear is recommended for the forested trail and the sometimes slippery rocks near the water. If you want to stay overnight, the Stoughton Pond Recreation Area campground sits roughly 9.15 km away and makes a convenient nearby base for an extended trip into the area.
The Setting
Black River Falls sits at 410 feet along the Black River, in the coastal lowlands of Vermont.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Out-and-back trail, 2.4 miles round-trip with approximately 350 ft of elevation gain; rated moderate. The route follows a forested path to a vantage above the falls and does not require technical climbing, but hikers should be prepared for steady uphill sections. Expect natural trail surfaces and potentially wet or rocky footing near the cascade, so sturdy shoes and typical day-hike gear are recommended. Stoughton Pond Recreation Area campground is about 9.15 km away for nearby overnight camping.
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 Black River Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Black River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is typically more robust due to snowmelt and rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for outdoor activities.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The rocks around the falls can be slippery, especially after rain. Visitors should exercise caution and avoid climbing on wet or unstable surfaces. Always supervise children near the water.
Current Water Conditions
52 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 68 years of record
1.88 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge BLACK RIVER AT NORTH SPRINGFIELD, VT (5 km away).
Today
Moderate
56 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Moderate
67 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
56 cfs
5/10Wed
Low
57 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
57 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
68 cfs
5/10Sat
Low
69 cfs
6/10Best window: Wed — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).
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 North Springfield 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 55 feet through Black River Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 406 feet.
Both above and below, the ground is gentle; the falls are the one abrupt step in an otherwise easy-going creek. Facing southeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 406 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 55 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Black River Falls is located near the town of Cavendish, Vermont. Access is typically via local roads, and visitors should follow signs or GPS directions to the falls. The area may require navigating unpaved or narrow roads.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but it may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.
Elevation
410 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.299797° N, -72.483423° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and secure parking. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be uneven. Bring insect repellent during warmer months.
Where to Stay
Best Western Springfield Hotel
Holiday Inn Club Vacations Mount Ascutney Resort
Manchester View
Seesaw's Lodge
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
Stoughton Pond Rec Area
5.7 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Stoughton Pond Recreation Area is a day use area located to the north of North Springfield Lake. Stoughton Pond is located off State Route 106 on Stoughton Pond Road in Perkinsville, Vermont. Recreation Stoughton Pond Recreation Area offers plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. Many people enjoy canoeing, kayaking, boating and fishing. The state of Vermont Department of Fish and Game annually stock the pond with rainbow trout, and the pond also offers excellent bass fishing. A b
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the town of Cavendish, hiking trails in the Green Mountain National Forest, and local historic sites.
Wildlife
The area around Black River Falls is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should respect the natural habitat and avoid disturbing animals.
Cities near Black River Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Black River Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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