Upper High Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Upper High Falls
Upper High Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in New York, known for its scenic beauty and accessibility. It is part of the High Falls area, which features multiple cascades and is surrounded by lush forested landscapes.
The Setting
Upper High Falls sits at 961 feet along the Cincinnati Creek, in the foothills of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Upper High Falls is a short and relatively flat path, making it suitable for most visitors. It winds through a forested area and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape before reaching the waterfall.
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 Upper High Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper High Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail may be slippery after rain or during winter months. Visitors should exercise caution near the waterfall and avoid getting too close to the edge.
Current Water Conditions
10 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 3 years of record
0.72 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 CINCINNATI CREEK AT BARNEVELD NY (3 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
10 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Low
11 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
10 cfs
6/10Wed
Barely Flowing
14 cfs
5/10Thu
Low
30 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
20 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
36 cfs
6/10Best window: Tue — low flow, widespread frost then sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to mid April, 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 Prospect 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 143 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 888 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 109 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 124 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 888 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 143 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Upper High Falls is located in the Adirondack region of New York. Access is typically via local roads, and the trailhead is marked but may require careful navigation depending on the season.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
961 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.281884° N, -75.153256° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear as the trail may be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Bug spray is recommended during warmer months. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking.
Where to Stay
Hampton Inn Rome
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Utica
Burrstone Inn, an Ascend Collection Hotel
TownePlace Suites by Marriott New Hartford
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
Other waterfalls in the High Falls area, hiking trails in the Adirondack region, and local scenic viewpoints.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious and respectful of the natural habitat.
Cities near Upper High Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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