LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Sperrys Falls near Depauville, New York, showing about 96 feet of drop, a long cascade, facing northwest LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Live Conditions · 1,040 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Sperrys Falls

New York

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

Difficulty

Easy

Trail Length

1.0 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

About Sperrys Falls

Sperrys Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Adirondack region of New York. It is surrounded by lush forest and offers a serene natural setting. The falls are lesser-known, making them a peaceful destination for visitors seeking solitude.

The Setting

Sperrys Falls sits at 295 feet along the Black River, in the coastal lowlands of New York.

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

The trail to Sperrys Falls is a short and relatively easy hike through forested terrain. The path may be uneven in places but is generally manageable for most visitors. The trail leads directly to the waterfall, offering scenic views along the way.

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 Sperrys Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Sperrys Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warm weather for hiking.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

Exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry a map or GPS device.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Low

Based on a USGS gauge 17.1 miles away

1,040 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much lower than usual for this time of year

Based on 106 years of record

2.57 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.

USGS 04260500
17.1 miles from waterfall
Drainage: 1,864 sq mi
Altitude: 374 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge BLACK RIVER AT WATERTOWN NY (27 km away).

Moderate confidence
Low right now
1040 cfs
→ Holding steady
12122024162024TodayTomorrowWedThuFriSatSun

Today

Low

1040 cfs

6/10

Tomorrow

Low

1007 cfs

6/10

Wed

Low

1117 cfs

4/10

Thu

Low

1183 cfs

4/10

Fri

Low

1162 cfs

6/10

Sat

Low

1261 cfs

4/10

Sun

Low

1357 cfs

4/10

Best window: Today — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid 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 Depauville 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 96 feet through Sperrys Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 301 feet.

The ground changes about 35 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 30 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northwest, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Sperrys Falls near Depauville, New York, for comparison with the lidar view LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Sperrys Falls near Depauville, New York, showing about 96 feet of drop, a long cascade, facing northwest
Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation
301 feet
Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls
About 96 feet
Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces
Northwest
Glows in afternoon and evening light.
Ground profile through the falls

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

Sperrys Falls is located near the town of Wells, New York, in the Adirondack Park. Access typically involves driving on local roads and potentially navigating unpaved or forest roads. Exact directions may vary, so consulting a map or GPS is recommended.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is limited and may consist of roadside pull-offs or small parking areas near the trailhead.

Elevation

295 feet above sea level

Coordinates

44.183750° N, -76.130500° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy footwear as the trail may be uneven or muddy, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during warmer months, as bugs can be prevalent. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail may become slippery.

Additional Information

Nearby Attractions

Nearby attractions include other waterfalls and hiking trails in the Adirondack Park, as well as the town of Wells for dining and lodging options.

Wildlife

The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks and other insects.

Cities near Sperrys Falls

Nearby Waterfalls

4.8 miles away
New York
Unknown
Unknown Unknown

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