Pixley Falls
New York • 50 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Pixley Falls
Pixley Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Pixley Falls State Park, New York. The waterfall is known for its 50-foot cascade and is surrounded by lush forest, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
The Setting
Pixley Falls sits at 840 feet within Pixley Falls State Park, fed by the Black River, in the foothills of New York. The falls drop 50 feet.
Height: 50 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 100 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Pixley Falls is a short and easy walk, suitable for most visitors. It is well-maintained and leads directly to the base of the waterfall. The trail is surrounded by dense forest, offering a serene and scenic experience.
What to Expect
The falls drop 50 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Pixley Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $7.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Pixley Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Pixley Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a unique view of the frozen waterfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The rocks near the waterfall can be slippery, so exercise caution when approaching the falls. Be aware of ticks in the area during warmer months.
Current Water Conditions
270 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 115 years of record
4.09 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 BLACK RIVER NEAR BOONVILLE NY (13 km away).
Today
Moderate
270 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
266 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
284 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
301 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
331 cfs
8/10Sat
Moderate
347 cfs
5/10Sun
Moderate
327 cfs
8/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to mid May, 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 Westernville 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 71 feet of drop through Pixley Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. That is more than the listed 50 feet because the gorge keeps dropping below the falls themselves. The brink sits at about 872 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 49 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 99 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southeast, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 872 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 71 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer 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
Pixley Falls is located within Pixley Falls State Park, approximately 18 miles north of Rome, New York. The park is accessible via State Route 46.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available within Pixley Falls State Park near the trailhead. A small parking fee may apply during the park's operating season.
Elevation
840 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.402292° N, -75.344061° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during the summer months. Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking.
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This easy 1.0 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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Vanderkamp
Hampton Inn Rome
Mini Golf Firepit Cabin Salmon River 5 min
Hampton Inn by Hilton Verona at Turning Stone
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 include Delta Lake State Park and the Erie Canal Village in Rome, NY.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also spot wildflowers and other native plants.
Cities near Pixley Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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