Talcott Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (3)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Talcott Falls
Talcott Falls is a small but picturesque waterfall located in New York. It is known for its serene surroundings and relatively easy access, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking a peaceful nature experience.
The Setting
Talcott Falls sits at 620 feet along the Black River, in the foothills of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Talcott Falls is short and relatively flat, making it suitable for most visitors. It passes through a wooded area and leads directly to the waterfall. The path may be uneven in some spots, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Talcott Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Talcott Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
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 rocks may be slippery. Be aware of ticks and other insects in the area. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or icy conditions.
Current Water Conditions
1,090 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 106 years of record
2.62 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 nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge BLACK RIVER AT WATERTOWN NY (11 km away).
Today
Moderate
1090 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
1202 cfs
5/10Fri
Moderate
1319 cfs
5/10Sat
Moderate
1279 cfs
8/10Sun
Moderate
1379 cfs
5/10Mon
Moderate
1397 cfs
5/10Tue
Moderate
1243 cfs
8/10Best window: Sat — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).
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 Adams Center 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 80 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 622 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 54 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 29 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing north, the falls 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
- 622 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 80 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- 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 north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Talcott Falls is located near the town of Talcottville, New York. It can be accessed via local roads, and visitors should follow signage or GPS directions to the falls area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited parking available near the falls. Visitors may need to park along the roadside or in designated areas nearby.
Elevation
620 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.892007° N, -75.978812° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit after recent rainfall or during spring for the best water flow. Bring sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy or uneven. Arrive early to secure parking, as spaces are limited.
Where to Stay
Comfort Inn & Suites Watertown - 1000 Islands
Quality Inn & Suites Watertown Fort Drum
Days Inn by Wyndham Watertown Fort Drum
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Watertown - Thousand Islands by IHG
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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The nearby town of Talcottville offers small shops and local dining options. Other natural attractions in the area include hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter birds, small mammals, and insects typical of the region. Be cautious of ticks during warmer months.
Cities near Talcott Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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