Clifford Falls waterfall
Live Conditions · 3 ft³/s · About average

Clifford Falls

New York

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Photo Credits (5)
1.
New York National Guard CC BY-ND 2.0 · Flickr
2.
New York National Guard CC BY-ND 2.0 · Flickr
3.
Billy Wilson Photography CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr
4.
Andrew Reding CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr
5.
Billy Wilson Photography CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Clifford Falls

Clifford Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in New York, known for its serene surroundings and natural beauty. It is a lesser-known destination, making it a peaceful spot for visitors seeking a quiet retreat.

The Setting

Clifford Falls sits at 1,322 feet along the White Brook, in the foothills of New York.

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

The trail to Clifford Falls, if present, is not well-documented. Visitors should be prepared for potentially unmarked or informal paths and exercise caution when exploring the area.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a tranquil natural setting with the sound of cascading water. The area may be surrounded by forested terrain, offering opportunities for photography and relaxation.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Clifford Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Clifford Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit Clifford Falls, as water flow is typically higher due to snowmelt and rainfall.

Seasonal Access

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

Safety Information

Water temperature is currently 44°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.

Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks, uneven terrain, and potential lack of cell service in the area. Always inform someone of your plans before visiting remote locations.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Moderate

3 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Based on 3 years of record

4.85 ft

Water depth at gauge

44°F

Very cold

Expect numbness within minutes

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 44 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.

About This Gauge

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

USGS 04274185
8.1 mi from waterfall
Drainage: 1 sq mi
Altitude: 1,867 ft

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Lake Placid hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Clifford Falls is located in a rural area of New York. Visitors typically access the falls via local roads, but specific directions may vary depending on the starting point. It is recommended to use a GPS or consult local maps for accurate navigation.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability near Clifford Falls is not well-documented. Visitors should plan for limited parking options and consider parking along nearby roads if no designated lot is available.

Elevation

1322 feet above sea level

Coordinates

44.276714° N, -73.822920° W

Additional Information

Nearby Attractions

Nearby attractions may include other natural landmarks or small towns in the region. Research local guides for more information.

Wildlife

The area around Clifford Falls may host typical New York wildlife, such as deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks and other insects.

Cities near Clifford Falls

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