Stony Kill Falls
New York • 87 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Stony Kill Falls
Stony Kill Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Minnewaska State Park Preserve in New York. It features a stunning cascade that flows into a serene pool, surrounded by lush forest and rocky terrain. The waterfall is part of the Shawangunk Ridge, known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.
The Setting
Stony Kill Falls sits at 1,207 feet within Minnewaska State Park Preserve, fed by the Wallkill River, in the foothills of New York. The falls drop 87 feet.
Height: 87 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Verkeerder Kill Falls (187 ft) lies 3.2 miles to the southwest.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 1.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Stony Kill Falls is a short but moderately challenging hike. It begins with a relatively flat section before ascending slightly through rocky terrain. The trail is well-marked and leads directly to the base of the waterfall. Some sections may be slippery, especially after rain, so proper footwear is recommended.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 87 feet. 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 Stony Kill Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $10.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Stony Kill Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Stony Kill Falls is in the spring or after heavy rainfall when the water flow is at its peak. Fall is also a great time to visit for the vibrant foliage.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution on the trail, especially near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Stay on marked trails and avoid climbing on the falls. Cell service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
503 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 101 years of record
2.87 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.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge WALLKILL RIVER AT GARDINER NY (12 km away).
Today
Roaring
469 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
493 cfs
9/10Wed
Roaring
532 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
511 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
586 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
557 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
566 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — roaring flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to mid May, peaking in March.
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 Kerhonkson 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 211 feet, most of it in one sheer step, the signature of a plunge waterfall. The falls are listed at 87 feet; the extra comes from the ravine that continues below the base. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,208 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 168 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 44 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,208 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 211 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
Stony Kill Falls is located within the Minnewaska State Park Preserve. Visitors can access the falls via the Stony Kill Falls Trailhead, which is off Shaft 2A Road near Kerhonkson, NY. The trailhead is accessible by car, but the road leading to it may be rough and unpaved in sections.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
1,207 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.727579° N, -74.301353° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Wear sturdy shoes with good traction, as the trail can be rocky and slippery. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities near the trailhead. Be mindful of park rules and carry out all trash.
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With 1.0 miles and 200 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
Americas Best Value Inn New Paltz
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Montgomery by IHG
Moondance Ridge Suites
Tin Brook Bed & Breakfast
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 Minnewaska Lake, Awosting Falls, and the extensive trail network within Minnewaska State Park Preserve.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for unique flora and fauna along the trail.
Cities near Stony Kill Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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