LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Rossman Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
About Rossman Falls
Rossman Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Schoharie County, New York. It is surrounded by lush forest and offers a serene natural setting. The falls are not widely known, making them a quieter destination for those seeking solitude in nature.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Rossman Falls is relatively short and easy, with minimal elevation gain. However, the path may be unmarked and could require some navigation skills. The area is surrounded by dense forest, adding to the secluded and peaceful atmosphere.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil waterfall surrounded by natural beauty. The falls may have varying water flow depending on the season, with spring and early summer typically offering the most impressive views due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Rossman Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Rossman Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail may be unmarked and could require navigation skills. Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls and avoid visiting during heavy rain or icy conditions. Always inform someone of your plans before heading out.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Kinderhook Creek, 0.2 miles away, not on Rossman Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
463 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 55 years of record
2.98 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge KINDERHOOK CREEK AT ROSSMAN NY (0 km away).
Today
Strong
463 cfs
10/10Tomorrow
Strong
449 cfs
10/10Tue
Strong
429 cfs
10/10Wed
Strong
446 cfs
10/10Thu
Strong
441 cfs
10/10Fri
Strong
451 cfs
10/10Sat
Strong
451 cfs
10/10Best window: Today — strong flow, partly sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early 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 Stottville hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Rossman Falls Frozen?
Updated about 17 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately strong flow slows freezing
Rossman Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 39°F to 33°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 538 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in New York.
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 73 feet of drop through Rossman Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 71 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 50 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 55 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 71 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 73 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Rossman Falls is located near the town of Middleburgh, New York. Access to the falls may require navigating private property or unmarked trails, so visitors should research access points carefully and respect private land boundaries.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors may need to park along nearby roads or at designated areas if available.
Elevation
75 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.333141° N, -73.743179° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear as the trail may be uneven or muddy in places. Bring a map or GPS device to ensure you stay on track, as the trail may not be well-marked. Check local conditions before visiting to confirm access and trail status.
Where to Stay
Pondfront Gem Minutes from Hudson’s Best Shops Cafes The Stillwater House
voco James Newbury Hudson Valley by IHG
Nest Hudson
Postcard Cabins Eastern Catskills, Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy
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 Attractions
Nearby attractions include Vroman's Nose, a popular hiking destination with stunning views of the Schoharie Valley.
Wildlife
The area around Rossman Falls is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and avoid disturbing the natural habitat.
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