Rochester Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Rochester Falls
Rochester Falls is a scenic waterfall located near Savannah, Missouri. It is part of the One Hundred and Two River and is known for its picturesque setting and cascading waters over a rocky ledge. The waterfall is a popular spot for photography and nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
Rochester Falls sits at 860 feet along the Missouri River, in the foothills of Missouri.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Rochester Falls is very short and easy, leading from the roadside parking area to the waterfall. The path is unpaved and may be uneven in some spots, but it is generally accessible for most visitors.
What to Expect
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 Rochester Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Rochester Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is typically more active due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious near the water, as rocks can be slippery. Avoid visiting during or after heavy rains, as the area may flood.
Current Water Conditions
42,600 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 69 years of record
7.83 ft
Water depth at gauge
70°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a refreshing 70 degrees F, good for a quick swim. Expect murky visibility with reduced clarity and excellent dissolved oxygen levels. Mineral content is moderate.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
ExcellentSupports aquatic life
Water Clarity
MurkyReduced visibility
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
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 Missouri River at St. Joseph, MO (22 km away).
Today
Low
48678 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
51545 cfs
3/10Thu
Low
52402 cfs
3/10Fri
Barely Flowing
46447 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
43307 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
45027 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
44521 cfs
5/10Best window: Fri — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early May to early July, peaking in June.
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 Cosby 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 27 feet through Rochester Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 857 feet.
The ground changes about 22 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 23 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
- 857 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 27 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
Rochester Falls is located near the town of Savannah, Missouri, and can be accessed via local roads. Visitors typically park near the bridge over the One Hundred and Two River and walk a short distance to view the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Limited roadside parking is available near the bridge. Visitors should ensure they are not blocking traffic or private property.
Elevation
860 feet above sea level
Coordinates
39.910550° N, -94.692740° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit after recent rainfall for the best water flow. Wear sturdy shoes as the path may be uneven. Be cautious near the water, as rocks can be slippery.
Where to Stay
Stoney Creek Hotel St. Joseph
My Place Hotel- St Joseph, MO
Drury Inn & Suites St Joseph
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott St. Joseph
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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Savannah, Missouri offers small-town charm and local parks. The nearby city of St. Joseph has museums and historical sites.
Wildlife
The area around Rochester Falls is home to various bird species, small mammals, and aquatic life in the river.
Cities near Rochester Falls
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