Raquette Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
9.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Raquette Falls
Raquette Falls tumbles along the Raquette River in the Adirondack wilderness, set within the Follensby Pond land unit and managed by an NGO. The site carries a PCON designation, and its conserved setting gives the falls a remote, peaceful character that’s popular with both hikers and paddlers seeking classic northern-forest scenery. The approach rewards a full-day outing: the route to the falls is an approximately 9.0-mile out-and-back with about 500 feet of total elevation gain, so plan accordingly. Expect quiet trails, wooded river corridors, and a satisfying payoff at the cascade — a great destination for those who enjoy longer moderate hikes through conserved lands.
The Setting
Raquette Falls sits at 1,575 feet within Follensby Pond, fed by the Raquette River, in the hills of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 9.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Raquette Falls Trail is a 9.0-mile out-and-back route with roughly 500 feet of cumulative elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The hike travels through dense forest with a mix of flat sections and gentle inclines; the route is generally well-marked and leads to the falls near the trail’s end. Specific USFS surface/grade/class data are not provided for this trail, so hikers should expect natural tread and variable footing typical of Adirondack footpaths and come prepared for a longer, moderately paced outing.
What to Expect
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 Raquette Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Raquette Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is late spring through early fall when the trail is most accessible and the weather is mild. Winter visits are possible but require proper gear and preparation.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Be prepared for changing weather conditions, and carry a map or GPS device as cell service may be limited. Watch for slippery rocks near the falls and be cautious of wildlife encounters.
Current Water Conditions
182 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 118 years of record
2.86 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 (22 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
197 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
190 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
175 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
181 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
205 cfs
3/10Sat
Barely Flowing
197 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
203 cfs
3/10Best window: Wed — barely flowing flow, partly 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 Saranac 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.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 86 feet through Raquette Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,580 feet.
The ground changes about 25 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 11 feet in the 500 feet below. 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
- 1,580 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 86 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
Raquette Falls can be accessed via the Raquette Falls Trail, which begins near the Axton Landing area off Coreys Road. The trailhead is located in the High Peaks Wilderness area of the Adirondack Park.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the trailhead near Coreys Road. Spaces may be limited during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
1,575 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.145000° N, -74.324100° W
Land Management
Managed by NGO
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Bug spray is recommended in spring and summer due to mosquitoes and black flies. In winter, be prepared for snow and ice, and consider bringing snowshoes or microspikes.
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With 9.0 miles and 500 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Trailhead by Weekender
Sandy Point Motel
The Lazy Bear Cabin
Lake Placid Inn: Main Street
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 the St. Regis Canoe Area, Tupper Lake, and other hiking trails in the High Peaks Wilderness.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. Be cautious and store food properly to avoid attracting animals.
Cities near Raquette Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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