Russell Falls
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
About Russell Falls
Russell Falls is a small but picturesque waterfall located in the Taconic State Park in New York. It is part of the Bash Bish Brook and is known for its serene surroundings and accessibility.
The Setting
Russell Falls sits at 1,322 feet along the White Brook, in the foothills of New York.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Beaver Meadows Falls (60 ft) lies 2.3 miles to the southwest.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Russell Falls is a short and easy hike through a forested area, offering a peaceful experience with the sound of Bash Bish Brook accompanying you along the way. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for families and casual hikers.
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 Russell Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $7.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Russell Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is typically stronger due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 50°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Exercise caution near the water, as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of ticks and other insects in the area.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 17 miles away
0 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 3 years of record
4.51 ft
Water depth at gauge
50°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 50 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge WHITE BROOK NEAR WILMINGTON NY (27 km away).
Today
Moderate
0 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
0 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
0 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
0 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
0 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
0 cfs
8/10Sat
Moderate
0 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to late 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 Mineville 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 122 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 1,324 feet.
The ground changes about 36 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 74 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face west and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,324 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 122 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
Russell Falls is located within Taconic State Park, near the New York-Massachusetts border. Visitors can access the falls via the park's trail system, with parking available at designated areas within the park.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at Taconic State Park, with several lots near trailheads leading to the falls.
Elevation
1,322 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.152551° N, -73.781526° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and peak seasons. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy after rain.
Where to Stay
Lake Placid Inn Boutique Hotel
Hungry Trout Resort
Lake Placid Inn: Main Street
Grandview Lake Placid
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
Bash Bish Falls (located nearby in Massachusetts), Taconic State Park, and the Harlem Valley Rail Trail.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter frogs and other amphibians near the brook.
Cities near Russell Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Russell Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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