Johnson Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (3)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
5.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Johnson Falls
Johnson Falls is a scenic waterfall located in the Adirondack region of New York. It is known for its serene surroundings and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
Johnson Falls sits at 1,227 feet along the Tonawanda Creek, in the foothills of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 5.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Johnson Falls winds through dense forest and crosses streams, offering a peaceful and immersive hiking experience. The path is well-marked but may include muddy or uneven sections, especially after rain.
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 Johnson Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Johnson Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for viewing the waterfall at its fullest flow, while fall offers stunning foliage. Winter visits may require snowshoes or additional preparation.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be prepared for remote conditions with limited cell service. Carry a map, and let someone know your plans before heading out. Watch for slippery rocks near the waterfall.
Current Water Conditions
13 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 48 years of record
3.29 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 TONAWANDA CREEK AT ATTICA NY (8 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
13 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
13 cfs
3/10Mon
Low
16 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
14 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
14 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
17 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
17 cfs
4/10Best window: Tue — barely flowing flow, partly 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 Strykersville 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 measures about 129 feet of descent through Johnson Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 1,254 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 50 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 102 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,254 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 129 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Johnson Falls is located within the Five Ponds Wilderness Area in the Adirondacks. Access typically requires hiking along marked trails starting from trailheads near Wanakena, NY.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated trailheads near Wanakena. Visitors should check local maps or trail guides for exact locations.
Elevation
1,227 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.796449° N, -78.328350° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking boots, as the trail can be muddy or slippery. Bring insect repellent during warmer months, and be prepared for limited cell service in the area.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 5.0 miles and 300 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
Letchworth Farm Guesthouses
Garden Place Hotel
Hampton Inn East Aurora
Luxury Villa
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
The nearby Cranberry Lake and Wanakena Suspension Bridge are worth exploring for additional outdoor activities.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of black bears, which are occasionally spotted in the region.
Cities near Johnson Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Johnson Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
Writing about Johnson Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.