LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Moonshine Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.2 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
150 ft
About Moonshine Falls
Moonshine Falls is a peaceful, lesser-known waterfall tucked into the landscape of New York, prized for its quiet setting and natural charm. Its modest size and easy access make it a great choice for visitors who want a short nature escape without the crowds — ideal for a relaxed afternoon hike or a quick photo stop. The falls are reached via a short out-and-back route that covers about 1.2 miles with roughly 150 feet of elevation gain and is rated easy. While the nearest developed camping at POTOMAC GROUP CAMPGROUND sits about 27.4 km away, the short trail makes Moonshine Falls a pleasant day-trip destination for hikers and families looking for a quick, scenic outing.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.2-mile out-and-back trail gains 150 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail specifics from USFS sources (surface type, official trail grade and class) are not documented in the provided data. Known practical details: the route to Moonshine Falls is an approximately 1.2-mile out-and-back trail with about 150 feet of elevation gain and an easy difficulty rating. Expect a short, straightforward hike; bring sturdy shoes and be prepared for typical natural-trail conditions such as roots and rocks, since an official surface classification is not available in the provided information.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil natural setting with a cascading waterfall surrounded by forested areas. The area may be less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls in New York.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Moonshine Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Moonshine Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall flow is typically stronger due to seasonal 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 wildlife encounters. Always stay on marked trails if available and avoid visiting during severe weather.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Owasco Inlet, 12.9 miles away, not on Moonshine Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
25 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 25 years of record
3.75 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 OWASCO INLET BELOW AURORA STREET AT MORAVIA NY (21 km away).
Today
Low
25 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
33 cfs
6/10Sat
Low
31 cfs
6/10Sun
Low
40 cfs
6/10Mon
Low
38 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
31 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
33 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — low flow, sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February to early May, 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 Union Springs 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 laser survey finds one clean step here: roughly 147 feet of drop concentrated at the brink. Elevation at the pin is about 545 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 65 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 88 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing northeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 545 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 147 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
The exact location and directions to Moonshine Falls are not well-documented. Visitors are advised to consult local hiking resources or contact nearby park services for guidance.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or roadside parking options and plan accordingly.
Elevation
456 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.727015° N, -76.688281° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy footwear and be prepared for potentially unmarked trails. Check weather conditions before visiting, as trails may become slippery after rain.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
This easy 1.2 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. 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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
OR Sombriolet Sun Hat
UPF 50+ sun protection with vents so your head doesn't cook on exposed trail sections.
Where to Stay
Heron Cottage on Cayuga Lake
Savannah House Wine Country Inn & Cottages
41 Lakefront Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
3BR/2BA Lakehouse 10 min to town
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.
Nearby Campground
POTOMAC GROUP CAMPGROUND
17 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Potomac Group Campground and Day Use Area provides a primitive camping experience for groups of 8-40 people. It is an excellent site for family events and youth group activities. The facility is situated in a scenic area of New York, which makes for an exciting place to explore. A variety of recreational activities are available. Parking for the campground is located approximately 500 feet from the campground itself and all gear must be carried in and out. Recycling cans are available on
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented, but visitors may explore other natural areas or parks in the region.
Wildlife
The area may host typical forest wildlife such as birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Moonshine Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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