LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Saint Marys Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Saint Marys Falls
Saint Marys Falls is a picturesque Adirondack waterfall tucked into the stands of General Jacob Morris State Forest. Surrounded by lush northern hardwoods, the falls offer a peaceful retreat where water threads over bedrock into a quiet pool—a favorite spot for photographers and day-hikers seeking a serene, forested setting. The site sits on lands managed by SDC and carries an SCA designation, so visitors should respect local conservation practices while enjoying the scenery. The walk to the viewing area is an accessible outing for many outdoor lovers: the out-and-back route covers roughly 2.4 miles with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The trail is well-marked and winds through shaded woodland, making it a pleasant half-day hike for those comfortable with modest climbs. If you’re planning an overnight stay, the nearest developed campground is East Sidney Dam Recreation Area, about 21.2 km from the trailhead.
The Setting
Saint Marys Falls sits at 1,165 feet within General Jacob Morris State Forest, fed by the Unadilla River, in the foothills of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Out-and-back route of approximately 2.4 miles total with 350 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. The path is a well-marked woodland trail through General Jacob Morris State Forest (managed by SDC, designation: SCA). Trail surface is typical forest footpath with moderate grades in places—expect steady climbs rather than technical terrain. Suitable for hikers comfortable with a moderate-paced, family-friendly outing; bring sturdy footwear and basic navigation awareness.
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 Saint Marys Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Saint Marys Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is during spring or early summer when water flow is typically at its peak. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a unique view of the falls if they are partially frozen.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution near the falls as rocks may be slippery. Be aware of changing weather conditions and dress appropriately for the season.
Current Water Conditions
214 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 87 years of record
4.40 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 UNADILLA RIVER AT ROCKDALE NY (18 km away).
Today
Moderate
209 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
231 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
227 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
232 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
256 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
239 cfs
6/10Sun
Moderate
231 cfs
6/10Best window: Wed — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to early 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 Gilbertsville 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 91 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 1,146 feet.
The ground changes about 140 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 47 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,146 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 91 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning 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
Saint Marys Falls is located near the town of Keeseville, New York, within the Adirondack Park. Access is typically via local roads, and visitors should follow signage or GPS directions to the trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
1,165 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.512409° N, -75.292442° W
Land Management
Managed by SDC
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy or uneven in places. Bring insect repellent during the warmer months, and check weather conditions before visiting. Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and holidays.
Where to Stay
Quality Inn Oneonta Cooperstown Area
Holiday Inn Express Oneonta by IHG
Hidden LakeFront Retreat
Apple Inn and Suites Cooperstown Area
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.
Nearby Campground
East Sidney Dam Recreation Area
13.2 miles away · 0 sites
This recreation area is part of East Sidney Lake
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Ausable Chasm, a popular natural gorge, and the town of Keeseville, which offers dining and shopping options.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks during warmer months.
Cities near Saint Marys Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Saint Marys Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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