Lyons Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Lyons Falls
Lyons Falls is a scenic waterfall tucked in the village of Lyons Falls in Lewis County, New York. The falls sit on the Black River and offer a compact yet dramatic cascade near the village center; the area also bears reminders of the town’s industrial past, including the nearby site of an old paper mill. The village itself is on the border of the towns of West Turin and Lyonsdale and sits at the junction of state Routes 12 and 12D, about 14 miles (23 km) south of Lowville, the county seat. As of the 2020 census Lyons Falls had a population of 570, giving the setting a small‑town New York feel that’s pleasant for a short outing. The route to the falls makes for a rewarding half‑day trip for visitors and locals alike. Because the falls are close to the village and road junctions, they’re easy to combine with a stroll through Lyons Falls or a scenic drive along Route 12. The site’s compact scale and accessible location make it a great stop for photographers and hikers looking for a short but scenic outing.
The Setting
Lyons Falls sits at 755 feet along the Black River, in the foothills of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This is a 2.4‑mile out‑and‑back trail with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The trail begins near the village and follows toward the Black River to viewpoints of the falls; expect a modest climb on the return. Total distance, gain, and the moderate rating make this a good choice for hikers with some experience or anyone prepared for a short, steady ascent.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Lyons Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lyons Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the water flow is typically stronger during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the water's edge, as rocks may be slippery. Be aware of changing water levels, especially after heavy rain.
Current Water Conditions
206 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 115 years of record
3.88 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 BLACK RIVER NEAR BOONVILLE NY (13 km away).
Today
Moderate
223 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Moderate
208 cfs
8/10Wed
Low
218 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
208 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
231 cfs
5/10Sat
Moderate
251 cfs
5/10Sun
Moderate
248 cfs
5/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to mid 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 Lyons 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.
The bare-earth surface loses about 81 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 786 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 41 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 39 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing north, the falls 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
- 786 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 81 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- 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 north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Lyons Falls is located in Lewis County, New York, near the intersection of the Black River and Moose River. It is accessible via Lyons Falls Road and is close to the village center.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the waterfall, but availability may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
755 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.618333° N, -75.358056° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Bring a camera to capture the scenic views.
Where to Stay
Mini Golf Firepit Cabin Salmon River 5 min
GGgs Cabin
Adirondack Lodge Old Forge
Tug Hill Paradise, Copenhagen, NY
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
Nearby attractions include the Black River Trail and the village of Lyons Falls, which has historical sites and small shops.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and other small wildlife.
Cities near Lyons Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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