Are dogs allowed on Kaaterskill Falls Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Kaaterskill Falls Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Kaaterskill Falls Trail?

No, Kaaterskill Falls Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Kaaterskill Falls Trail?

Kaaterskill Falls Trail is rated moderate. It is 2.6 miles long with 1,129 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See New York trail conditions

ModerateOut and Back

New York

Kaaterskill Falls Trail

Elka Park, New York

2.6 mi

Distance

1,129 ft

Elev. Gain

1h 16m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

This trail is a short hike to a waterfall. In the summer you will want to check the water level because there might not be much water in the falls, and during periods of more rain the trail may be muddy. This is an easy hike along a well marked trail to the viewing platform and lower falls that experienced hikers and newcomers alike will enjoy. The difficulty increases as reach the waterfall but there are stairs put in and the trail is very well marked. This hike can be kid friendly, but watch children closely as the trail can be slippery. The waterfalls' fame in America really began when Washington Irving mentioned them in his story "Rip Van Winkle". The parking area is busy due to this being one of the more popular hiking trails in the Hudson Valley, so arrive early. If the main parking lot is full, there is a second parking lot which is about .3 miles from the trailhead. Makes for a great weekend trip from New York City. The upper falls and viewing platform can also be accessed from Laurel House Road.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:456 ft

Max:642 ft

344 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.