Whitaker Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Whitaker Falls
Whitaker Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Lewis County, New York. It is part of the Whitaker Park, a small but scenic area that offers visitors a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. The falls cascade over a series of rock ledges, creating a serene and photogenic setting.
The Setting
Whitaker Falls sits at 1,017 feet along the Independence River, in the foothills of New York.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Whitaker Falls is short and relatively flat, making it accessible for most visitors. It winds through a wooded area and leads directly to the falls. The path is well-maintained, but it may be muddy or slippery after rain.
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 Whitaker Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Whitaker Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the water 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 falls, as rocks can be slippery. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or icy conditions.
Current Water Conditions
36 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 83 years of record
3.23 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual 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 INDEPENDENCE RIVER AT DONNATTSBURG NY (9 km away).
Today
Low
38 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Moderate
43 cfs
5/10Wed
Low
40 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
44 cfs
6/10Fri
Low
43 cfs
6/10Sat
Low
48 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
51 cfs
6/10Best window: Wed — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late 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 Constableville 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 110 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 1,015 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 86 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 82 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,015 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 110 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning 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
Whitaker Falls is located in Whitaker Park, near the town of Martinsburg, New York. The park is accessible by car, and visitors can follow local signage to reach the area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area available at Whitaker Park, which provides access to the falls and surrounding trails.
Elevation
1,017 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.734444° N, -75.445556° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail may be slippery in wet conditions. Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the falls. Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking.
Where to Stay
Mini Golf Firepit Cabin Salmon River 5 min
GGgs Cabin
Adirondack Lodge Old Forge
Tug Hill Paradise, Copenhagen, NY
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 the Tug Hill Plateau and other small parks in Lewis County.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter birds, deer, and other small wildlife in the area.
Cities near Whitaker Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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Other waterfalls named Whitaker Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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