Crandall 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 Crandall Falls
Crandall Falls is a small, picturesque waterfall located in New York, known for its serene surroundings and accessibility. It is a lesser-known destination, making it a peaceful spot for nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
Crandall Falls sits at 1,181 feet along the Cincinnati Creek, in the foothills of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Crandall Falls is short and relatively flat, making it suitable for most visitors. It passes through a wooded area and leads directly to the waterfall. The path may be uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
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 Crandall Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Crandall Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Crandall Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution on wet or slippery rocks near the falls. Be mindful of ticks and other insects in the area. Cell phone service may be limited, so plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
12 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 3 years of record
0.76 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
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 CINCINNATI CREEK AT BARNEVELD NY (15 km away).
Today
Moderate
12 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
13 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
12 cfs
8/10Fri
Strong
13 cfs
8/10Sat
Strong
13 cfs
8/10Sun
Strong
12 cfs
8/10Mon
Strong
12 cfs
8/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, patchy fog then mostly cloudy (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to mid April, peaking in March.
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 Prospect 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 53 feet of drop through Crandall Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 1,176 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 31 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 14 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing north, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,176 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 53 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Crandall Falls is located near the town of Elizabethtown in Essex County, New York. Access is typically via local roads, and visitors should use GPS or local maps to navigate to the area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of roadside pull-offs or small parking areas nearby. Visitors should plan accordingly.
Elevation
1,181 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.397569° N, -75.137386° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during the spring or after rainfall for the best water flow. Bring bug spray during the summer months, as insects can be prevalent. Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends.
Where to Stay
TownePlace Suites by Marriott New Hartford
Burrstone Inn, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Hampton Inn Rome
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Utica by IHG
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
Elizabethtown offers additional hiking trails and scenic spots. The Adirondack High Peaks region is also nearby for more adventurous hikers.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter insects, especially in warmer months.
Cities near Crandall Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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