Limekiln Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Limekiln Falls
Limekiln Falls sits on the South Branch Moose River southeast of Old Forge, New York, where a scenic cascade drops into a shaded, riverside gorge. The setting is quietly photogenic—mossy rock, flowing water, and a cool forest canopy—making it a favorite short outing for hikers and nature photographers. The approach is a moderate hike of 2.4 miles out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain, so it rewards a bit of effort with close-up views of the falls. Expect a mostly forested route that finishes at the base of the cascade, where the river and rock formations create several good vantage points for photos and quiet contemplation. The trail’s moderate rating means it’s best for hikers who are comfortable with short climbs and uneven footing; bring sturdy shoes and water for a pleasant half-day trip.
The Setting
Limekiln Falls sits at 1,581 feet along the Buck Creek, in the hills of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This is a 2.4-mile out-and-back route with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The trail follows forested terrain along the South Branch Moose River and ends at viewpoints at the base of Limekiln Falls, offering close-up access to the cascade. Hikers should be prepared for typical wooded-trail conditions and moderate climbs; specific surface, grade, and official trail class data were not provided.
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 Limekiln Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $0.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Limekiln Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit Limekiln Falls, as the water flow is typically stronger due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the falls, as rocks can be slippery. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, and carry a map or GPS device as cell service may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
0 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 25 years of record
2.05 ft
Water depth at gauge
50°F
WarmVery comfortable
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. Water temperature is very cold at 50 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
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 BUCK CREEK NEAR INLET NY (17 km away).
Today
Low
0 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
0 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
0 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
0 cfs
4/10Best window: Wed — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to early 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 Old Forge 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 bare-earth surface loses about 49 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,618 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 26 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 27 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
- 1,618 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 49 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
Limekiln Falls is located near the Limekiln Lake Campground in the Adirondack Park. Visitors can access the falls by following trails from the campground area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Limekiln Lake Campground, though it may require a day-use fee during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,581 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.664234° N, -74.904336° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during the summer months to protect against mosquitoes and other bugs.
Where to Stay
Adirondack Lodge Old Forge
Great Pines
Conveniently Located Old Forge Condo Near Downtown
HTR Adirondacks
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
Limekiln Lake, Adirondack Museum, and other hiking trails in the Adirondack Park.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of black bears, which are occasionally spotted in the region.
Cities near Limekiln Falls
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