Hoffman Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Hoffman Falls
Hoffman Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Indiana, known for its natural beauty and serene surroundings. It is part of Clifty Falls State Park, which features several waterfalls and hiking trails.
The Setting
Hoffman Falls sits at 643 feet within Clifty Falls State Park, fed by the Indian Kentuck Creek, in the foothills of Indiana.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Hoffman Falls winds through wooded areas and features some rocky terrain. Hikers can enjoy views of the surrounding forest and other natural features along the way. The trail may be muddy or slippery after rain, so proper 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 Hoffman Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $7.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Hoffman Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Hoffman Falls, as the waterfall is most active after rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide unique frozen waterfall views.
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 there are steep sections near the waterfall. Stay on marked trails and avoid getting too close to the edge of the falls. Carry water and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
0 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 56 years of record
2.78 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 INDIAN-KENTUCK CREEK NEAR CANAAN, IN (20 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
3/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to late April, 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 Madison 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.
Along the line through the falls, the bare ground drops about 186 feet, most of it in one sheer step, the signature of a plunge waterfall. The ground at the falls is roughly 642 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 47 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 87 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 642 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 186 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Hoffman Falls is located within Clifty Falls State Park near Madison, Indiana. Visitors can access the park via State Road 62. The waterfall is accessible via hiking trails within the park.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated lots within Clifty Falls State Park. Visitors should follow park signage to locate the nearest parking area to the trailhead.
Elevation
643 feet above sea level
Coordinates
38.752559° N, -85.422459° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, especially after rain, as the trail can be slippery. Bring water and snacks, and consider visiting other waterfalls in Clifty Falls State Park for a full day of exploration.
Where to Stay
Comfort Inn Madison near Clifty Falls
Clifty Inn
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Madison by IHG
The Chandler Hotel
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
Other waterfalls in Clifty Falls State Park, including Big Clifty Falls and Little Clifty Falls. The historic town of Madison, Indiana, is also nearby.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter deer, birds, and other small wildlife along the trail.
Cities near Hoffman Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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