Little Falls (historical)
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Little Falls (historical)
Little Falls (historical) in New York refers to a location that may have once featured a waterfall or rapids along the Mohawk River. The area is now primarily known for its historical significance and the surrounding town of Little Falls, which has a rich industrial and canal history. The original waterfall may no longer exist in its natural state due to modifications for canal and industrial purposes.
The Setting
Little Falls (historical) sits at 1,198 feet along the Raquette River, in the foothills of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
There is no specific trail associated with Little Falls (historical). Visitors may explore the town and nearby parks, such as Moss Island, which features unique geological formations and remnants of the Erie Canal system.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect to learn about the historical significance of the area, including its role in the Erie Canal and industrial development. The original waterfall may no longer be visible, but the surrounding area offers scenic views of the Mohawk River and interesting rock formations.
Accessibility
Accessibility may vary depending on the specific location. Moss Island has uneven terrain and may not be fully accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Little Falls (historical)?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Little Falls (historical)?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal for pleasant weather and scenic views, but the area can be visited year-round.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Be cautious near the river and canal areas, as water levels and currents can be unpredictable. Wear appropriate footwear for uneven terrain.
Current Water Conditions
1,090 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 65 years of record
3.91 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 RAQUETTE RIVER AT SOUTH COLTON NY (10 km away).
Today
Strong
1177 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Strong
1068 cfs
10/10Tue
Strong
1045 cfs
10/10Wed
Strong
946 cfs
10/10Thu
Strong
1129 cfs
8/10Fri
Strong
1124 cfs
10/10Sat
Strong
1168 cfs
8/10Best window: Tomorrow — strong flow, partly sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to early June, 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 Hannawa Falls 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 124 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 1,186 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 181 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 72 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,186 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 124 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Little Falls is located in Herkimer County, New York, along the Mohawk River. The town is easily accessible via Interstate 90 (New York State Thruway) and Route 5.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available in the town of Little Falls, with several public lots and street parking options. Specific parking for any remnants of the historical waterfall is not clearly marked.
Elevation
1,198 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.504722° N, -74.757500° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear comfortable walking shoes if exploring Moss Island or other nearby areas. Check local visitor centers or historical societies for more information about the area's history.
Where to Stay
Camp Lake Bear
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Canton
White Pine Camp
Best Western Potsdam University Park Inn
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
Moss Island, Erie Canalway Trail, Herkimer Diamond Mines, and the town of Little Falls itself.
Wildlife
The area may feature common wildlife such as birds, squirrels, and fish in the Mohawk River.
Cities near Little Falls (historical)
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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