Horseshoe Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Horseshoe Falls
Horseshoe Falls is a small but picturesque waterfall located in Rhode Island. It is part of the Blackstone River system and is known for its horseshoe-shaped cascade, which is particularly scenic after rainfall or during the spring melt.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
There is limited information about a formal trail leading to Horseshoe Falls. It may be accessible via a short walk from nearby roads or parking areas.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a small, scenic waterfall with a unique horseshoe shape. The area is surrounded by natural beauty, and the falls are most impressive after rainfall or during the spring season.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The terrain may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Horseshoe Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Horseshoe Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as water flow is typically higher during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The rocks near the falls can be slippery, especially after rain. Exercise caution when exploring the area. Be mindful of water levels and currents.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Pawcatuck River, 0.4 miles away, not on Horseshoe Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
240 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 24 years of record
1.61 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Pawcatuck River at Kenyon, RI (1 km away).
Today
Moderate
265 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
274 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
241 cfs
6/10Sun
Moderate
228 cfs
8/10Mon
Moderate
235 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
258 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
265 cfs
8/10Best window: Sun — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February to early May, peaking in March.
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 Carolina hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Horseshoe Falls Frozen?
Updated about 16 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Horseshoe Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 55°F to 43°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 270 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail.
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 bare-earth surface loses about 29 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 91 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 23 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 2 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
- 91 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 29 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
Horseshoe Falls is located in the town of North Smithfield, Rhode Island, near the Blackstone River. It is accessible via local roads, and the falls are situated close to the Slatersville Reservoir.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There may be limited parking available near the falls, but specific details about designated parking areas are unclear. Visitors should check local signage and avoid blocking private property.
Elevation
92 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.448156° N, -71.628674° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit after recent rainfall for the best water flow. Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain near the falls may be uneven or slippery. Respect private property in the area.
Where to Stay
The Historic General Stanton Inn
Holiday Inn South Kingstown-University of Rhode Island by IHG
The Atlantic House
Atlantic Beach Hotel Newport
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Blackstone River and nearby Slatersville Reservoir offer additional scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Wildlife
The area around Horseshoe Falls may feature local wildlife such as birds, small mammals, and aquatic species.
Cities near Horseshoe Falls
Other waterfalls named Horseshoe Falls
14 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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