Denton Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (1)
About Denton Falls
Denton Falls is a quietly scenic cascade tucked inside the Neversink River Unique Area in New York. Owned and managed by OTHS, the falls are a lesser-known gem set among riparian forest and shaded banks, making it a peaceful destination for photographers, birders, and hikers who prefer a more secluded outdoor experience. Access to the falls is via a roughly 2.4-mile out-and-back route that climbs about 350 feet and is generally rated moderate. Official USFS trail surface, grade, and class data are not available for this access route, so come prepared with sturdy footwear, basic navigation aids, and a leave-no-trace mindset when exploring this pleasant, tucked-away spot.
The Setting
Denton Falls sits at 935 feet within Neversink River Unique Area, fed by the Neversink River, in the foothills of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This approach to Denton Falls is a 2.4-mile out-and-back hike with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. Detailed USFS trail surface, grade, and trail class information is not available for this route; the hike is best treated as a natural-surface forest path with potentially uneven sections. Hikers should plan for steady climbs on the outbound leg, bring proper footwear and navigation, and expect some informal or lightly marked stretches along the way.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful and scenic waterfall surrounded by natural beauty. The area is relatively quiet and less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls. However, access may be challenging due to the lack of formal trails.
Accessibility
The falls are not wheelchair accessible due to the lack of formal trails and uneven terrain.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Denton Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Denton Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit Denton Falls, as the water flow is typically stronger due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the water, as rocks may be slippery and the river currents can be strong. Cell phone service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
167 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 33 years of record
5.00 ft
Water depth at gauge
57°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 57 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge NEVERSINK RIVER AT BRIDGEVILLE NY (8 km away).
Today
Moderate
180 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Moderate
193 cfs
5/10Mon
Moderate
190 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
181 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
176 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
174 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
156 cfs
5/10Best window: Tue — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to mid April, 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 Bridgeville 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 81 feet of drop through Denton Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 940 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 135 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 79 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face west and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 940 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 81 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Denton Falls is located near the town of Hancock, New York. Access is typically via local roads, and visitors should use GPS or maps to navigate to the area. The falls are situated along the Delaware River, and access may require walking along unmarked paths or riverbanks.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may be informal, such as roadside pull-offs. Visitors should plan accordingly and ensure they are not blocking traffic or private property.
Elevation
935 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.566481° N, -74.632383° W
Land Management
Managed by OTHS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain may be uneven. Bring a map or GPS device as the area is not well-marked. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the water.
Where to Stay
Hampton Inn Monticello, Ny
Days Inn by Wyndham Wurtsboro
Best Western Monticello
Sleep Inn & Suites Middletown - Goshen
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
The town of Hancock offers small-town charm and access to the Delaware River for fishing and kayaking.
Wildlife
The area around Denton Falls is home to various bird species, deer, and other wildlife typical of the region.
Cities near Denton Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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