LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Oskonsa Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Oskonsa Falls
Oskonsa Falls is a tucked-away waterfall in New York that offers a peaceful, green setting for hikers and photographers. Because it’s lesser-known, visits often feel private — a quiet cascade framed by woodland rather than a crowded viewpoint. The falls are an inviting reward for a short hike and are especially appealing to anyone looking for a low-key nature escape. The falls are reached by a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail that gains about 350 feet and is generally rated moderate. The route can be uneven in places, so sturdy footwear and a bit of care on the approach are recommended. The nearest developed camping is South Shore Recreation Area, roughly 19.4 km away; check local access and trail conditions before you go to plan your visit.
The Setting
Oskonsa Falls sits at 1,306 feet along the Tuscarora Creek, in the foothills of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Length: 2.4 miles round-trip (out-and-back). Elevation gain: ~350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. Official surface, grade, and trail class data are not listed for this route; hikers should expect natural footpaths with uneven sections, roots and rocks, and a steady moderate climb on the approach. The hike is non-technical but requires sure footing in wet or slippery conditions. No USFS trail name/number is available in the provided data — confirm current trail conditions and access before heading out.
What to Expect
Expect a quiet and scenic waterfall surrounded by natural beauty. The area may be less developed, so plan accordingly for a more rugged experience.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Oskonsa Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Oskonsa 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 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
Trails may be unmarked or poorly maintained. Watch for slippery rocks near the waterfall and be cautious of changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
18 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 25 years of record
2.65 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 TUSCARORA CREEK ABOVE SOUTH ADDISON NY (7 km away).
Today
Roaring
18 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Roaring
17 cfs
8/10Wed
Roaring
25 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
25 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
22 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
19 cfs
9/10Sun
Roaring
17 cfs
6/10Best window: Wed — roaring flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to late April, 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 Elkland 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 207 feet of descent through Oskonsa Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 1,310 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 163 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 61 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,310 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 207 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Oskonsa Falls is located in a remote area of New York. Access may require navigating rural roads, and specific directions should be confirmed before visiting.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may need to park along nearby roads or at designated trailheads if available.
Elevation
1,306 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.133406° N, -77.306924° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy footwear, as trails may be unmaintained. Check weather conditions before visiting, and carry a map or GPS device as signage may be limited.
Where to Stay
Hampton Inn Corning/Painted Post
Quality Inn Corning
Fairfield Inn Corning Riverside
Staybridge Suites Corning by IHG
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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Nearby Campground
SOUTH SHORE RECREATION AREA
12.1 miles away · 3 sites
Overview South Shore Recreation Area is located on the south side of the Cowanesque Lake along State Route 49, just five miles west of Lawrenceville, Pennsylvania. The area is easily accessible from Route 15 and offers a great location for boating, picnicking and fishing.Recreation Cowanesque Lake offers a variety of outdoor activities including boating and fishing. A variety of native fish inhabits the area's streams and lakes. The North and South Tailrace areas provide access for fishing below
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Explore other natural attractions in the surrounding area, such as state parks or hiking trails.
Wildlife
The area may host a variety of wildlife, including birds and small mammals. Be mindful of your surroundings.
Cities near Oskonsa Falls
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