Mill Dam 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 Mill Dam Falls
Mill Dam Falls is a small but picturesque waterfall located in New York. It is known for its serene surroundings and historical significance, as it is situated near an old mill site. The waterfall is a popular spot for photography and short visits.
The Setting
Mill Dam Falls sits at 961 feet along the Cincinnati Creek, in the foothills of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Mill Dam Falls is short and relatively flat, making it accessible for most visitors. It passes through a wooded area and leads directly to the waterfall. The path may be uneven in some spots, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful and scenic experience at Mill Dam Falls. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, and the sound of cascading water adds to the tranquil atmosphere. It is a great spot for a quick nature escape or a picnic.
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 Mill Dam Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Mill Dam Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution on the trail, especially after rain, as it may become slippery. Stay on marked paths and avoid climbing near the waterfall.
Current Water Conditions
10 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 3 years of record
0.73 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CINCINNATI CREEK AT BARNEVELD NY (3 km away).
Today
Moderate
10 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
10 cfs
6/10Wed
Moderate
11 cfs
6/10Thu
Moderate
11 cfs
5/10Fri
Moderate
11 cfs
8/10Sat
Moderate
11 cfs
5/10Sun
Moderate
11 cfs
6/10Best window: Fri — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to mid April, peaking in March.
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 Prospect 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 measures about 84 feet of descent through Mill Dam Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 957 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 78 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 78 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 957 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 84 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Mill Dam Falls is located in New York, but specific directions to the site may vary depending on the region. Visitors are advised to use GPS or consult local resources for the most accurate route.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but there may be limited roadside parking or small designated areas nearby.
Elevation
961 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.283322° N, -75.152719° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds. Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the falls. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail may become muddy after rain.
Where to Stay
Hampton Inn Rome
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Utica
Burrstone Inn, an Ascend Collection Hotel
TownePlace Suites by Marriott New Hartford
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 may include local parks, hiking trails, and historical sites. Check local tourism resources for more details.
Wildlife
The area around Mill Dam Falls may feature common woodland wildlife such as birds, squirrels, and deer.
Cities near Mill Dam Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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