Moody Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (4)
About Moody Falls
Moody Falls is a tucked-away cascade set within the Raquette River Wild Forest, on land owned and managed by SDC and formally designated SCA. Quiet and lesser-known, the falls make a rewarding destination for hikers looking to escape more crowded corridors and enjoy a peaceful stretch of wild forest managed by SDC. The most common access follows a moderate out-and-back route of 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, making Moody Falls a good half-day outing for hikers comfortable with steady climbing. There is no USFS trail number listed for this approach; before you go, check with SDC for the latest local conditions and any access notes.
The Setting
Moody Falls sits at 1,401 feet within Raquette River Wild Forest, fed by the Raquette River, in the foothills of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Out-and-back route, 2.4 miles total with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. Specific USFS trail surface, grade, and class data are not provided for this route. The trail is managed by SDC within the Raquette River Wild Forest (designation: SCA); consult SDC for up-to-date trail conditions and access details.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil natural setting with a scenic waterfall. The area may be surrounded by forested landscapes, offering opportunities for photography and relaxation.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Moody Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Moody Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is likely to be at its peak. Fall offers beautiful foliage, enhancing the scenery.
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 near the waterfall and uneven terrain. Always stay on marked trails if available and avoid visiting during inclement weather.
Current Water Conditions
176 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 118 years of record
2.83 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
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 PIERCEFIELD NY (14 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
176 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
169 cfs
4/10Thu
Barely Flowing
189 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
205 cfs
4/10Sat
Barely Flowing
190 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
196 cfs
3/10Mon
Low
222 cfs
4/10Best window: Sat — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late 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 Cranberry 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 87 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 1,418 feet.
The ground changes about 87 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 47 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,418 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 87 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Moody Falls is located in New York, but specific directions to the trailhead or parking area are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local maps or guides for accurate navigation.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or roadside parking options.
Elevation
1,401 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.311729° N, -74.715461° W
Land Management
Managed by SDC
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy footwear and be prepared for potentially unmarked trails. Check local weather conditions before visiting, as trails may become slippery after rain.
Where to Stay
Trailhead by Weekender
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Canton
White Pine Camp
Camp Lake Bear
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 are not well-documented, but the surrounding region of New York may offer additional hiking trails and natural landmarks.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical New York wildlife such as birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Moody Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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