Stone Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Stone Falls
Stone Falls is a quiet, picturesque cascade tucked into the woods of New York, prized by hikers who prefer a peaceful outing away from busier parks. The waterfall’s setting—mossy boulders, shaded forest, and the steady sound of falling water—makes it a great half-day destination for photographers and anyone looking for a restorative nature walk. Because Stone Falls remains lesser-known, you’ll often find the trail pleasantly uncrowded. Getting to the falls involves a short, moderate hike: the maintained out-and-back route is about 2.0 miles round trip with roughly 300 feet of elevation gain. The nearest developed camping is Kanakadea Recreation Area, approximately 21.02 km away, so day trips are common; pack good footwear and a water bottle and plan for a tranquil, scenic outing in the woods.
The Setting
Stone Falls sits at 955 feet along the Canaseraga Creek, in the foothills of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Out-and-back, 2.0 miles round trip with about 300 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. The trail follows a forested route with a natural surface—expect rocky and uneven sections and some short, steeper pitches rather than sustained steep grades. The route is non-technical hiking (no scrambling or climbing required), and can be slippery after rain, so sturdy, treaded footwear is recommended. The path is generally straightforward and suitable for most hikers comfortable with moderate slopes and uneven footing.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil hike through dense woods leading to a scenic waterfall. The area around the falls is often shaded, providing a cool and refreshing atmosphere. Wildlife sightings are possible, and the sound of the cascading water adds to the peaceful ambiance.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Stone Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Stone Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Stone Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for hiking.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution on the trail, especially after rain, as the path can be slippery. Stay on marked trails and avoid getting too close to the edge of the falls. Cell service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
14 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 52 years of record
2.26 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CANASERAGA CREEK ABOVE DANSVILLE NY (3 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
14 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
18 cfs
3/10Mon
Low
21 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
22 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
21 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
18 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
19 cfs
3/10Best window: Wed — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February 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 Dansville 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 measures about 109 feet of descent through Stone Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 961 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 77 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 30 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
- 961 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 109 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
Stone Falls is located in a remote area of New York. Access may require driving on unpaved roads, and visitors should use GPS or local maps to navigate. Specific directions may vary depending on the starting point.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of small pull-off areas near the trailhead. Visitors should plan to arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
955 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.537012° N, -77.667494° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Check trail conditions before visiting, as the path may be muddy or slippery after rain.
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With 2.0 miles and 300 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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Letchworth Farm Guesthouses
Hampton Inn Hornell
Letchworth Valley Campground Cabins
Best Western Maple City Inn
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
Kanakadea Recreation Area
13.1 miles away · 0 sites
This recreation area is part of Almond Lake
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other hiking trails, small towns, or scenic viewpoints in the surrounding area.
Wildlife
The area around Stone Falls is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should respect the natural habitat and avoid feeding animals.
Cities near Stone Falls
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