Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Derbyshire Falls
Derbyshire Falls is a small, picturesque waterfall tucked into the forests of Perry County, Indiana, just outside the town of Derby. It’s a lesser-known, peaceful spot where the sound of tumbling water and the surrounding greenery make for an inviting escape from town. The falls are best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, with plenty of opportunities for quiet observation and photography amid the trees. Reaching the falls requires a short out-and-back hike: the route is 2.4 miles round-trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is generally rated moderate. The trail winds through wooded terrain and can become muddy after rain, so bring sturdy footwear and expect some steady uphill sections on the approach. The modest length and rewarding payoff make Derbyshire Falls a pleasant half-day outing for hikers comfortable with moderate grades.
The Setting
Derbyshire Falls sits at 925 feet along the Whitewater River, in the foothills of Indiana.
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
This is a 2.4-mile out-and-back route with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. The trail follows a wooded path from the trailhead and includes steady, short climbs rather than long sustained grades; footing can be uneven in places and the path is often muddy after rain. Trail type: out-and-back. Difficulty: moderate. Trail surface and official class data are not provided; hikers should plan for natural, narrow forest paths and wear appropriate footwear. The route is suitable for hikers comfortable with short uphill sections and basic trail conditions.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Derbyshire Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Derbyshire Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is most active after rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a unique view of the falls if they freeze.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail may be slippery after rain, and visitors should exercise caution near the waterfall. Watch for ticks and other insects in the warmer months.
Current Water Conditions
453 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 97 years of record
5.71 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 WHITEWATER RIVER NEAR ALPINE, IN (13 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
489 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
468 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
444 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
468 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
468 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
453 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
521 cfs
3/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February to early 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 Lake View hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Derbyshire Falls is located near Derby, Indiana, within the Hoosier National Forest. Access is typically via local roads, and visitors should follow signage or GPS directions to the trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but it may be limited. Visitors are advised to arrive early during peak seasons.
Hours
Elevation
925 feet above sea level
Coordinates
39.471716° N, -85.220797° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit after a period of rain for the best water flow. Bring insect repellent during warmer months, as the area may have mosquitoes. Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
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.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
Cobblestone Inn & Suites - Brookville
Quality Inn I-74 Batesville
The Sherman Inn
Comfort Inn Shelbyville North
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
TAILWATER SHELTER 2 (BROOKVILLE LAKE)
11.9 miles away · 1 sites
Overview The Tailwater #2 Shelter is located at the base of Brookville Lake Dam.9136 SR101 Brookville, Indiana 47012 Visitors enjoy the accessibility to cold water trout fishing in the tailwater and the river access offered by this site. Tailwater #2 Shelter is a day use are only. There is no camping allowed at this site. Recreation Brookville Lake offers excellent boating, water skiing, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities. Canoeing, kayaking, and rafting are popular recreation activities in the
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Hoosier National Forest offers additional hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views. The nearby Ohio River provides opportunities for boating and fishing.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter insects such as mosquitoes and ticks.
Cities near Derbyshire Falls
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