Spier Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
2.0 miles
About Spier Falls
Spier Falls is a scenic waterfall on the Hudson River that straddles the line between Saratoga and Warren counties in New York, located east‑southeast of the Village of Corinth. The falls are set among forested riverbanks and framed by the historic Spier Falls Dam, which was constructed to provide hydroelectric electricity. Together the river, timbered slopes, and the dam give the site a mix of natural beauty and industrial history that appeals to photographers and day visitors alike. A short network of hiking routes and river viewpoints puts you close to the falls and the dam, making Spier Falls a rewarding half‑day outing for hikers who enjoy riverside scenery. Trails lead to multiple vantage points along the Hudson, and the setting — wooded stretches punctuated by open river views — makes it an inviting spot for a relaxed hike and casual exploration.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail follows forested riverside terrain to viewpoints of the falls and the Spier Falls Dam; specific surface details and an official trail name or number were not provided. The moderate rating reflects the overall climb and distance, so plan for a steady outing appropriate for hikers comfortable with some uphill sections.
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 Spier Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Spier Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall 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
Exercise caution near the water, as currents can be strong. Wear appropriate footwear to avoid slipping on wet or uneven surfaces. Be aware of ticks and other insects in the area.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Hudson River, 7.3 miles away, not on Spier Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
1,300 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 105 years of record
2.89 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
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 HUDSON RIVER AT HADLEY NY (12 km away).
Today
Strong
1404 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Strong
1413 cfs
10/10Tue
Strong
1329 cfs
10/10Wed
Strong
1329 cfs
10/10Thu
Strong
1329 cfs
10/10Fri
Strong
1306 cfs
10/10Sat
Strong
1364 cfs
10/10Best window: Tomorrow — strong flow, partly sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to early June, 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 West Glens Falls hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Spier Falls Frozen?
Updated about 17 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately big river, rarely freezes solid
Spier Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 39°F to 32°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 1310 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.
1-meter lidar measures about 87 feet of descent through Spier Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 391 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 8 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 21 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 391 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 87 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Spier Falls is located near Moreau Lake State Park in Saratoga County, New York. It can be accessed via Spier Falls Road, which runs along the Hudson River. The area is easily reachable by car.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There are parking areas along Spier Falls Road, but availability may vary depending on the season and time of day.
Elevation
407 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.234795° N, -73.756787° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during the spring or after heavy rains for the best waterfall flow. Bring sturdy footwear, as some trails may have uneven terrain. Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends or peak seasons.
Where to Stay
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Queensbury - Lake George , NY
Hampton Inn & Suites Saratoga Springs Downtown
The Hotel Saratoga, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Motel Luzerne
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 Hot Springs
Hot springs near Glens Falls, New York
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Glens Falls, New York on SoakingSprings.
Explore New York springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Moreau Lake State Park, Hudson River Recreation Area, and the Spier Falls Dam.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and other small wildlife. Be cautious of ticks during warmer months.
Cities near Spier Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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