Harts Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Harts Falls
Harts Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in New York, known for its serene surroundings and natural beauty. It is a lesser-known destination, making it a peaceful spot for visitors seeking tranquility.
The Setting
Harts Falls sits at 489 feet along the Oswegatchie River, in the coastal lowlands of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Harts Falls is short and relatively flat, making it accessible for most visitors. It passes through a wooded area and leads to a scenic view of the waterfall. The path may be uneven in some sections, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
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 Harts Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Harts Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Harts Falls, as the water flow is usually 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 near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of changing weather conditions and avoid visiting during heavy rain or icy conditions.
Current Water Conditions
271 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 110 years of record
0.93 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
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 OSWEGATCHIE RIVER NEAR HEUVELTON NY (20 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
271 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
270 cfs
4/10Thu
Barely Flowing
292 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
300 cfs
4/10Sat
Barely Flowing
287 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
317 cfs
3/10Mon
Low
335 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to mid 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 Rensselaer Falls 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 33 feet of drop through Harts Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 486 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 24 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 2 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
- 486 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 33 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
Harts Falls is located near the town of Black Brook in Clinton County, New York. Access is typically via local roads, and visitors should use GPS or local maps for navigation.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of roadside pull-offs or small parking areas near the trailhead.
Elevation
489 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.502582° N, -75.168853° 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 may be present. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall.
Where to Stay
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Canton
Best Western University Inn
The Inn at Gran View Ogdensburg, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Camp Lake Bear
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
Nearby attractions include Ausable Chasm and Whiteface Mountain, both offering additional outdoor activities and scenic views.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter insects, especially in warmer months.
Cities near Harts Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Aerial
Other waterfalls named Harts Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
Writing about Harts Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.