High 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 High Falls
High Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in New York, known for its scenic beauty and accessibility. It is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to High Falls is generally well-maintained and suitable for most visitors. It features a mix of forested paths and open areas, leading to a stunning view of the waterfall.
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 High Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at High Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal for visiting High Falls due to the vibrant foliage and higher water flow. Summer is also popular, but the area may be busier.
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. Stay on marked trails and avoid venturing too close to the edge.
Current Water Conditions
27 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 43 years of record
5.97 ft
Water depth at gauge
53°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 53 degrees F, limit your time in the water. Mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge BISCUIT BK ABOVE PIGEON BK AT FROST VALLEY NY (3 km away).
Today
Strong
27 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Strong
27 cfs
10/10Wed
Strong
28 cfs
10/10Thu
Strong
24 cfs
10/10Fri
Roaring
25 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
28 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
31 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — strong flow, partly sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late 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 Grahamsville 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.
The laser survey finds one clean step here: roughly 168 feet of drop concentrated at the brink. Elevation at the pin is about 1,986 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 100 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 72 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,986 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 168 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
High Falls is located in the town of High Falls, New York, within the Catskill region. It is accessible by car, and directions can vary depending on the specific waterfall site as there are multiple waterfalls in the area with the same name.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead or viewing area, but availability may vary depending on the season and time of day.
Elevation
1,985 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.980925° N, -74.524599° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes for the trail.
Where to Stay
Coldbrook Bed and Breakfast
The Bend
Mid-Century DJs Dream near Rhinebeck
The Blue House On The Hill Catskills—Views
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 the Mohonk Preserve, Minnewaska State Park, and other waterfalls in the Catskill region.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and other small wildlife. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna.
Cities near High Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named High Falls
31 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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