Hiking Mossy Cascade Waterfall - panoramic view tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in Mossy Cascade Waterfall: trails, map and practical info

Adirondacks • New York

4.3 Appreciated by 20 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2022 • Updated 23/06/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Easy
Distance
2 km
Elevation
536 ft
Duration
45min

Explore a 1.6 km easy trail through the Adirondacks' High Peaks Wilderness to moss-covered rocks and cascading water. This 1-hour hike with 150 m elevation gain rewards you with one of New York's most photogenic waterfall settings, perfect for both beginners and seasoned hikers.

Recommended for :
Beginners

Ready to explore Mossy Cascade Waterfall? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

SECTION: Getting There and Trail Access - REMOVE the paragraph: 'Your journey to Mossy Cascade Waterfall begins at the popular Roaring Brook Falls Trailhead...' and following paragraph. REPLACE with: 'The Mossy Cascade trail is accessible near Lake Placid and Keene Valley in the High Peaks Wilderness Area. The trail follows Mossy Cascade Brook on the way up to a series of cascades. Parking and trailhead access are available in these areas.' CHANGE in Hiking Experience section: Replace 'moderately challenging' with 'easy' and clarify '1 to 2 hours' should be approximately '1 hour' for the main waterfall, though extended routes to Hopkins Mountain take longer. ADD NOTE: 'For hikers seeking extended adventures, the trail can continue to Hopkins Mountain and connects to other High Peaks trails with increased difficulty and elevation gain (1758 ft total elevation gain and 2.9-3 miles for extended routes).'

Recommended gear for this trail

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Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
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Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
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Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
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Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Keene Valley, NY 12943, USA
GPS coordinates
44.1670662, -73.7711901
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

The easiest way to get to the start of the trails at the mossy cascade waterfall in New York is to drive there.

When?

Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
Loading

How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
—
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
44.1670662, -73.7711901
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.3
5 Reviews
D
David
Feb 14, 2025
This Adirondack waterfall hike delivers scenic beauty with a moderate climb that most fitness levels can handle. The mossy rocks create an enchanting setting, especially when water flow is strong. The trail is reasonably maintained and takes about ninety minutes round trip. However, budget for both parking fees and trail access charges, which add to the overall cost of the outing.
E
Emily
Sep 27, 2024
A beautiful waterfall destination that delivers on scenic value. The elevation gain is manageable for most visitors, and the unique mossy character of the cascade sets it apart from other regional hikes. The trail condition is good and the experience typically takes one to two hours. While paid parking and access fees are required, the pristine natural environment justifies the investment.
H
Hiker123
Feb 3, 2024
Absolutely stunning destination in the Adirondacks! The 150m climb is manageable for most fitness levels, and the mossy cascade at the end is breathtaking. Plan for 1-2 hours total including time to enjoy the waterfall. Note that dogs aren't allowed and there are entrance fees, but the pristine nature and well-maintained trail justify the costs.
N
Nature_Lover
Jan 28, 2024
Decent waterfall hike with about 150m of elevation gain over the route. The mossy rocks give it a unique character compared to other Adirondack waterfalls. However, the paid parking and trail access fees feel excessive for what you get. Budget 1-2 hours for the experience and bring cash for the various fees.
A
Anonymous
Jan 15, 2024
Beautiful waterfall with a moderate climb of 150m elevation gain. The mossy rocks around the cascade create a magical atmosphere, especially after recent rainfall. Takes about 1.5 hours round trip, though the paid parking and access fees add to the cost. Worth visiting for the scenic beauty, but be prepared for the financial investment.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Easy
536.00 m
45min
No
No
Yes, the Mossy Cascade Waterfall trail is rated as Easy, making it suitable for beginners and hikers of all experience levels. The 1.6 km distance and 150 m elevation gain are manageable for most visitors.
The Mossy Cascade Waterfall trail is 1.6 km long. This short distance makes it an ideal option for a quick outdoor outing in the Adirondacks.
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Update : June 2026