LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Madison Chute near Star Lake, New York, showing about 90 feet of drop, a long cascade, facing northwest LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Live Conditions · 139 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Madison Chute

New York

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

About Madison Chute

Madison Chute is a lesser-known waterfall located in New York, offering a serene and picturesque setting. It is surrounded by lush greenery and is a great spot for nature enthusiasts.

The Setting

Madison Chute sits at 909 feet along the Oswegatchie River, in the foothills of New York.

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

Details about the trail leading to Madison Chute are not well-documented. The area may involve unmarked paths or require off-trail navigation.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a peaceful natural setting with a waterfall surrounded by forested areas. The flow of the waterfall may vary depending on the season.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not available. The area may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Madison Chute?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Madison Chute?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is likely to be higher due to snowmelt and rainfall.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks, uneven terrain, and potential changes in water flow. Always stay on safe ground and avoid venturing too close to the edge of the waterfall.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 1 hour ago Barely Flowing

139 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much lower than usual for this time of year

Based on 83 years of record

2.02 ft

Water depth at gauge

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.

About This Gauge

USGS 04262000
4.8 miles from waterfall
Drainage: 259 sq mi
Altitude: 1,016 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge OSWEGATCHIE RIVER NEAR OSWEGATCHIE NY (8 km away).

High confidence
Barely Flowing right now
139 cfs
→ Holding steady
8400848TodayTomorrowWedThuFriSatSun

Today

Barely Flowing

150 cfs

3/10

Tomorrow

Barely Flowing

153 cfs

4/10

Wed

Barely Flowing

141 cfs

4/10

Thu

Barely Flowing

146 cfs

5/10

Fri

Barely Flowing

165 cfs

3/10

Sat

Barely Flowing

168 cfs

5/10

Sun

Barely Flowing

162 cfs

3/10

Best window: Thu — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early 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 Star Lake 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 90 feet through Madison Chute over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 911 feet.

The ground changes about 50 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 19 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Madison Chute near Star Lake, New York, for comparison with the lidar view LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Madison Chute near Star Lake, New York, showing about 90 feet of drop, a long cascade, facing northwest
Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation
911 feet
Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls
About 90 feet
Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces
Northwest
Glows in afternoon and evening light.
Ground profile through the falls

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

Specific directions to Madison Chute are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local maps or guides for the most accurate route.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or roadside parking options.

Elevation

909 feet above sea level

Coordinates

44.240887° N, -75.168499° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Bring a detailed map or GPS device as the location may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven terrain.

Additional Information

Nearby Attractions

Other natural attractions in the region may include hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.

Wildlife

The area may host a variety of wildlife, including birds and small mammals. Visitors should be mindful of their surroundings.

Cities near Madison Chute

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