Hamilton Falls
Vermont • 125 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
6.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Hamilton Falls
Hamilton Falls plunges approximately 125 feet down a steep rock face inside Jamaica State Park, offering a dramatic centerpiece to one of Vermont’s loveliest forested settings. The cascade creates a photogenic, misty amphitheater that draws day hikers and photographers alike; the walk-in rewards with close-up views of the falls and tranquil pools below. Summer and autumn visits are especially popular for clear water, fall foliage, and the sense of remoteness despite the park’s easy access. The most common approach is a moderate out-and-back hike that traverses wooded trails and riverside scenery, so bring sturdy shoes and a camera. If you’re making an overnight trip, Winhall Brook Camping Area is nearby (about 4.74 km away), providing a convenient basecamp for an early-morning or late-afternoon visit when the light is best.
The Setting
Hamilton Falls sits at 1,335 feet along the West River, in the foothills of Vermont. At 125 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Vermont.
Height: 125 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 6.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The route to Hamilton Falls follows a well-maintained forest path (the West River area trails) as a 6.0-mile out-and-back with roughly 500 feet of elevation gain. Rated moderate, the hike is suitable for hikers with a basic level of fitness and features wooded sections and riverside views along the way. Expect a steady but manageable grade; the trail leads you to the falls’ base where the 125-foot cascade can be viewed up close.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 125 feet. 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 Hamilton Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $4.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Hamilton Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Hamilton Falls is during late spring or early summer when water flow is strong, or in the fall when the foliage adds vibrant colors to the scenery.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the falls as the rocks can be slippery and the currents strong. Stay on marked trails and avoid climbing on the rocks around the falls. Cell phone service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
156 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 73 years of record
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge WEST RIVER AT JAMAICA, VT (3 km away).
Today
Moderate
103 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Moderate
109 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
95 cfs
9/10Sat
Moderate
85 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
77 cfs
9/10Mon
Moderate
86 cfs
9/10Tue
Moderate
95 cfs
9/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to late 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 Jamaica 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.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 50 feet through Hamilton Falls over a long run of ledges. The full 125 feet the falls are listed at is spread over a longer run than this window: along the whole mile-long profile the ground drops about 186 feet. Elevation at the pin is about 1,337 feet.
The ground changes about 60 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 31 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing south, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,337 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 50 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Hamilton Falls is located within Jamaica State Park. Visitors can access the falls by hiking along the West River Trail, which starts near the park's main entrance. The trailhead is well-marked, and the falls are approximately 3 miles from the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at Jamaica State Park. A day-use fee may apply for parking within the park.
Elevation
1,335 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.137577° N, -72.763429° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear as the trail can be uneven in places. Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially during warmer months. Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds. Be cautious near the falls, as the rocks can be slippery and dangerous.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 6.0 miles and 500 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.
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.
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.
Where to Stay
Manchester View
Seesaw's Lodge
Bromley View Inn
4BD 2BA - Mount Snow VT - Ski-Back Trail - Shuttle
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
Winhall Brook Camping Area
2.9 miles away · 111 sites
Overview Winhall Brook Camping Area is nestled in the Green Mountains of Vermont along Winhall Brook and the West River, seven miles north of Ball Mountain Lake. The campground has strong appeal to the outdoorsman at heart, offering hiking, biking and fishing opportunities in a beautiful natural setting.Recreation The Winhall Brook Camping Area rests among the Winhall River, and its confluence with the West River, providing substantial opportunities for fishing and river access. Hiking and biking
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Bellows Falls, Vermont
Sand Spring
Sand Spring surfaces at 75°F in Williamstown, Massachusetts — one of the few thermal features in New England. At just 670 feet ...
Lebanon Spring
Lebanon Spring discharges at 72°F at 663 feet elevation in Columbia County, flowing 24 degrees above ambient air temperature ju...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Bellows Falls, Vermont on SoakingSprings.
Explore Vermont springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Jamaica State Park offers additional hiking trails, picnic areas, and access to the West River for kayaking and fishing. The nearby town of Jamaica has small shops and restaurants.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for native flora and fauna along the trail.
Cities near Hamilton Falls
Other waterfalls named Hamilton Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
Writing about Hamilton Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.