LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Glenerie Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Glenerie Falls
Glenerie Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into the Catskill Mountains of New York, set between Kingston and Saugerties along the Esopus Creek. The falls tumble over a rocky ledge into a quiet, scenic plunge pool, making it a rewarding stop for hikers and photographers who enjoy intimate, wooded waterfall settings rather than large tourist sites. Access to Glenerie Falls is most commonly made via a short day-hike: the approach is an out-and-back route of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and is typically rated moderate. Visitors should come prepared for uneven, natural terrain near the creek, carry basic hiking essentials, and respect any landowner signs — the waterfall’s Catskills setting makes for a peaceful outing close to the Kingston/Saugerties corridor.
The Setting
Glenerie Falls sits at 82 feet along the Esopus Creek, in the coastal lowlands of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back. Length: 2.4 miles. Elevation gain: approximately 350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. No USFS trail name or number and no official surface/grade/class data were provided for this route. The approach follows informal wooded footpaths and creekside terrain that can be uneven and rocky near the falls; sturdy footwear and careful footing are recommended. Check local signage and property boundaries before exploring the immediate waterfall area.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a small, scenic waterfall with a peaceful atmosphere. The falls are surrounded by natural beauty, including rocky outcrops and forested areas.
Accessibility
The falls are not wheelchair accessible, and the terrain may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Glenerie Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Glenerie Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, 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
Be cautious of slippery rocks and strong currents near the falls. Respect private property boundaries and avoid trespassing. Visit during daylight hours for better visibility.
Current Water Conditions
98 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 56 years of record
12.80 ft
Water depth at gauge
62°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a refreshing 62 degrees F, good for a quick swim. Expect crystal clear visibility. Mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Water Clarity
Crystal clearExcellent visibility
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge ESOPUS CREEK AT MOUNT MARION NY (2 km away).
Today
Roaring
105 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
103 cfs
8/10Wed
Roaring
114 cfs
8/10Thu
Roaring
108 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
111 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
111 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
106 cfs
6/10Best window: Thu — roaring flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March 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 Ruby 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 Glenerie Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 86 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 91 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 72 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing northeast, 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
- 86 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 53 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- 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 northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Glenerie Falls is located near the hamlet of Glenerie, New York, along the Esopus Creek. Access is typically via local roads, and the falls are situated near private property, so visitors should be cautious and respectful of boundaries.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may require finding a safe spot along nearby roads. There is no designated parking lot for the falls.
Elevation
82 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.020369° N, -73.982915° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain may be uneven. Be respectful of private property and avoid trespassing. Bring a camera to capture the scenic views.
Where to Stay
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Kingston-Ulster by IHG
Courtyard by Marriott Kingston
Residence Inn by Marriott Kingston
Hampton Inn Kingston
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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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Esopus Creek and other scenic spots in Ulster County, such as the Catskill Mountains and Kingston.
Wildlife
The area around Glenerie Falls may feature local wildlife such as birds, deer, and small mammals.
Cities near Glenerie Falls
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