Moss Glen Falls
Vermont • 35 ft
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 Moss Glen Falls
Moss Glen Falls is a charming 35-foot cascade tucked into Vermont’s woods, offering a classic New England waterfall experience where mossy ledges and rushing water create a photogenic scene. The falls sit within the Granville Reservation State Forest, an SRMA managed by SPR, and are a favorite stop for hikers and photographers drawn to the sound of falling water and the lush surroundings—especially when streamflow and foliage are at their peak. Reaching the falls rewards a short, active outing rather than a long trek: the most common approach is an out-and-back route that climbs through forested terrain for a modest gain before opening to the cascade. The setting feels intimate and restorative, making Moss Glen Falls a satisfying half-day destination for families and day-hikers alike.
The Setting
Moss Glen Falls sits at 1,266 feet within Granville Reservation State Forest, fed by the Ayers Brook, in the foothills of Vermont. The falls drop 35 feet.
Height: 35 feet
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Moss Glen Falls is a 2.4-mile out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The route winds through mixed forest before delivering you to the base of the 35-foot falls; expect classic natural tread that can be muddy or slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear and cautious footing are recommended. The trail’s moderate grade makes it accessible to most hikers in good condition while providing enough climbing to feel like a proper outing.
What to Expect
The falls drop 35 feet. Dogs are welcome.
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 Moss Glen Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Moss Glen Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Moss Glen Falls, as the water flow is strongest during these seasons. Fall is also a great time to visit for the vibrant foliage.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or icy conditions, as the trail may become hazardous.
Current Water Conditions
4 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 87 years of record
2.13 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 AYERS BROOK AT RANDOLPH, VT (18 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
4 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
5 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
3/10Sat
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Best window: Wed — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early 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 South Lincoln 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 153 feet of descent through Moss Glen Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. That is more than the listed 35 feet because the gorge keeps dropping below the falls themselves. The brink sits at about 1,262 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 60 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 74 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,262 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 153 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Moss Glen Falls is located near South Lincoln, Vermont. The trailhead can be accessed via Route 100, with clear signage leading to the parking area. Coordinates: 44.0181, -72.8504.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but it may fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,266 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.018118° N, -72.850389° W
Land Management
Managed by UNK
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends and peak seasons. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be muddy. Bring a camera to capture the scenic beauty.
Where to Stay
West Hill House B&B at Sugarbush
Madbush Falls
Grunberg Haus Inn & Cabins
White Horse Lodge
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
Bingo
10.4 miles away · 0 sites
General Forest Camping Recreational Opportunity Guide
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the town of Lincoln, the Green Mountain National Forest, and other hiking trails in the area.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, small mammals, and occasional deer sightings.
Cities near Moss Glen Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Moss Glen Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
Writing about Moss Glen Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.