Salmon River Falls
New York • 110 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Salmon River Falls
Salmon River Falls is a stunning 110-foot waterfall located in the Salmon River Falls Unique Area in Oswego County, New York. It is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, offering scenic views and opportunities for hiking and photography.
The Setting
Salmon River Falls sits at 741 feet within Salmon River Falls Unique Area, fed by the Salmon River, in the foothills of New York. At 110 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in New York.
Height: 110 feet
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Salmon River Falls is a short and well-maintained path that leads to an overlook offering breathtaking views of the waterfall. There is also a gorge trail that provides access to the base of the falls, but it is steep and can be challenging, especially in wet or icy conditions.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 110 feet. 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 Salmon River Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Salmon River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is during spring when the water flow is strongest, or in the fall for vibrant foliage. Winter visits offer a unique experience with frozen cascades, but trails may be icy.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the edges of the gorge and on the gorge trail, as the terrain can be slippery and steep. Stay on marked trails and avoid venturing too close to the waterfall. Winter conditions may make trails icy and hazardous.
Current Water Conditions
224 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 33 years of record
5.33 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SALMON RIVER AT PINEVILLE NY (8 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
224 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
225 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
225 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
226 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
227 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
231 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
231 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February to late April, 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 Altmar 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.
Along the line through the falls, the bare ground drops about 165 feet, most of it in one sheer step, the signature of a plunge waterfall. The falls are listed at 110 feet; the extra comes from the ravine that continues below the base. The ground at the falls is roughly 745 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 158 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 123 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 745 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 165 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Salmon River Falls is located near the town of Orwell, New York. From Interstate 81, take Exit 36 and follow signs for Route 13 East. Continue to County Route 22, and the falls are well-marked with signage leading to the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area near the trailhead, which is free of charge. The lot is typically spacious but may fill up during peak seasons.
Elevation
741 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.547848° N, -75.940751° W
Land Management
Managed by SDC
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear, especially if you plan to explore the gorge trail. Bring a camera to capture the stunning views. Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking. Be cautious near the edges of the gorge, as the terrain can be slippery.
Where to Stay
Tailwater Lodge Altmar, Tapestry Collection By Hilton
GGgs Cabin
Vanderkamp
Mini Golf Firepit Cabin Salmon River 5 min
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 Salmon River Reservoir and Tug Hill State Forest, which offer additional opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Birdwatchers may spot species such as hawks and songbirds.
Cities near Salmon River Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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