LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Mad River Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Mad River Falls
Mad River Falls is a scenic waterfall located in the Tug Hill region of New York. It is known for its remote setting and natural beauty, making it a rewarding destination for adventurous hikers.
The Setting
Mad River Falls sits at 1,240 feet along the North Branch Salmon River, in the foothills of New York.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Salmon River Falls (110 ft) lies 6.9 miles to the west.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Mad River Falls winds through dense forest and may include uneven terrain, muddy sections, and stream crossings. It is recommended for hikers with some experience navigating natural trails.
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 Mad River Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Mad River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall flow is strongest during these times. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter access may be challenging due to snow.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail may be slippery or muddy, especially after rain. Visitors should exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks can be wet and unstable. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
23 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 12 years of record
0.97 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge NORTH BRANCH SALMON RIVER AT REDFIELD NY (6 km away).
Today
Low
23 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Low
23 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
23 cfs
6/10Thu
Moderate
27 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
23 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
29 cfs
5/10Sun
Moderate
35 cfs
5/10Best window: Tomorrow — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March 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 Altmar 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 shows the creek losing roughly 96 feet through Mad River Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,237 feet.
The ground changes about 18 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 57 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing east, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,237 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 96 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
Mad River Falls is located in the Tug Hill State Forest area. Access typically requires navigating unpaved roads and a hike through forested terrain. Directions may vary depending on the trailhead used.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated trailheads, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should plan to park in areas that do not obstruct access roads.
Elevation
1,240 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.593403° N, -75.817969° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring bug spray, especially in summer. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail can become slippery or muddy after rain.
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With 2.5 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.
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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
Tailwater Lodge Altmar, Tapestry Collection By Hilton
GGgs Cabin
Mini Golf Firepit Cabin Salmon River 5 min
Tug Hill Resort
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
Nearby attractions include other trails in Tug Hill State Forest and the Salmon River Falls, which is another popular waterfall in the region.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks during warmer months.
Cities near Mad River Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Mad River Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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