Cohoes Falls
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Drive Up
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
50 ft
About Cohoes Falls
Cohoes Falls (Mohawk: Kahón:ios, “a boat is in the water/is actively submerged”) sits on the Mohawk River where the city of Cohoes meets the town of Waterford. At roughly 1,000 feet wide and between 75 and 90 feet tall, the falls are among the broadest and most powerful cascades in New York and—by some measures—compare favorably to Niagara Falls. Unlike Niagara, Cohoes has little tourist infrastructure and its flow can vary dramatically; in dry summers the falls have been known to dry up entirely when water is diverted to fill canal locks or to generate power.
Height: 90 feet
Trail Description
Falls View Park features a very short, paved out-and-back trail of about 0.1 miles with roughly 50 feet of elevation gain. Designed as a drive-up, accessible route suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities, the paved surface leads directly from the parking area to a stable viewing platform overlooking the roughly 90-foot drop. The walk is brief (an average grade of about 9.5%) and offers immediate panoramas of the falls, making it an easy stop for photography and sightseeing when river flows are strong.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect breathtaking views of the falls from the observation deck. The flow of the falls is most impressive in spring and after heavy rains. Interpretive signs provide historical and ecological information about the area.
Accessibility
The viewing platform and trail at Falls View Park are wheelchair accessible.
Seasonal Closures
Falls View Park may close temporarily during severe weather or maintenance. Check local updates before visiting.
Safety Information
Stay on designated paths and viewing areas. The rocks near the falls can be slippery, and the currents are extremely strong. Supervise children closely.
Location & Access
Getting There
Cohoes Falls can be accessed via Falls View Park, located at 231-341 N Mohawk St, Cohoes, NY. The park provides a designated viewing area for the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Free parking is available at Falls View Park, with a small lot near the entrance.
Elevation
125 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.788967° N, -73.709563° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography. Bring binoculars for a closer look at the falls and surrounding wildlife. Check water levels before visiting, as the flow can vary depending on the season and dam operations.
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For this easy 0.1 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. 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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
OR Sombriolet Sun Hat
UPF 50+ sun protection with vents so your head doesn't cook on exposed trail sections.
Where to Stay
Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Explore New York springsFrequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cohoes Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cohoes Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
Best Seasons to Visit
Spring is the best time to visit Cohoes Falls due to the high water flow from snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides a pleasant atmosphere for a short outing.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Peebles Island State Park, the Erie Canalway Trail, and the historic downtown area of Cohoes.
Wildlife
The area around Cohoes Falls is home to various bird species, including herons and bald eagles, as well as fish in the Mohawk River.
