Are there fees or permits required for Spier Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Spier Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Spier Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Spier Falls.

Live Conditions · 1,390 ft³/s · About average

Spier Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Spier Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Spier Falls.

New York

By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026

Photo Credits (2)

andyarthur CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

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.

The Setting

Spier Falls sits at 407 feet along the Hudson River, in the coastal lowlands of New York.

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

This is an out-and-back route totaling approximately 2.4 miles round-trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. 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 summer fall

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

Updated about 2 hours ago Barely Flowing

1,390 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

676 932 2.6k 4.7k

Based on 104 years of record

3.00 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.

HUDSON RIVER AT HADLEY NY

USGS 01318500

7.3 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 1,664 sq mi

Altitude: 564 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge HUDSON RIVER AT HADLEY NY (12 km away).

Moderate confidence

Barely Flowing right now

1390 cfs

→ Holding steady

Today

Barely Flowing

1390 cfs

5/10

Tomorrow

Barely Flowing

1353 cfs

5/10

Tue

Low

1585 cfs

3/10

Wed

Low

1637 cfs

3/10

Thu

Barely Flowing

1329 cfs

5/10

Fri

Low

1394 cfs

3/10

Sat

Low

1402 cfs

3/10

Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).

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.

Weather Forecast

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 Maps

Parking

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.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.