Hiking Fitzgerald Falls - panoramic view  tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
--°C
Loading...
See forecast →

Hiking in the Fitzgerald Falls: trails, map and practical info

Hudson Valley • New York

4.5 Appreciated by 20 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2022Updated 23/06/2026
Difficulty
Easy
Distance
2 km
Elevation
28 ft
Duration
45min

This 2-3 hour hike with 91m elevation gain leads to a stunning 25-foot waterfall along the Appalachian Trail in the Hudson Valley. The cascading falls create a natural soundtrack amid lush greenery near Monroe, New York.

Recommended for :
Beginners

Ready to explore Fitzgerald Falls? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

Discover the trail

Oh no! We don't have any photos 😢

This trail hasn't been captured yet. Be the first to share your adventure!

Trail description

Discover Fitzgerald Falls: A Hidden Gem in the Hudson Valley

Welcome to the breathtaking Hudson Valley, a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts! If you're looking for an unforgettable hiking experience, fitzgerald falls is a must-visit destination. Nestled within the scenic beauty of the Hudson Valley, this charming waterfall offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.

Why Visit Fitzgerald Falls?

fitzgerald falls is a picturesque waterfall located along the Appalachian Trail, making it a popular spot for hikers seeking both challenge and serenity. The falls cascade down approximately 25 feet, creating a soothing soundtrack that complements the lush greenery surrounding it. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just starting out, this natural wonder provides an ideal setting to connect with nature.

The Hike to Fitzgerald Falls

The journey to fitzgerald falls is as rewarding as the destination itself. The trailhead is easily accessible from Lakes Road in Greenwood Lake, New York. As you embark on your hike, you'll traverse through diverse landscapes, including dense forests and rocky terrains. The trail is moderately challenging, with some steep sections that add excitement to your adventure.

Along the way, keep an eye out for local wildlife and vibrant flora that call this region home. The trail is well-marked and maintained, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all skill levels.

Just a short drive away lies Bellvale Creamery, where you can indulge in delicious homemade ice cream after your hike. This local favorite adds a sweet ending to your day of exploration.

Explore Nearby Attractions

Sterling Forest State Park is another nearby attraction worth visiting. Known for its extensive network of trails and rich biodiversity, it's perfect for those who wish to extend their outdoor adventure beyond fitzgerald falls. Don't miss Trout Brook within the park—a serene spot ideal for picnicking or simply enjoying nature's beauty.

For those interested in more challenging hikes, Cat Rocks offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It's a great addition to your itinerary if you're eager to explore more of what this region has to offer.

Best Time to Visit

fitzgerald falls can be visited year-round, each season offering its own unique charm. In spring and summer, the area bursts into life with blooming wildflowers and lush foliage. Fall brings a spectacular display of colors as leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Even in winter, the frozen cascade creates a magical scene worth witnessing.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Wear sturdy hiking boots to navigate the rocky terrain comfortably.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay energized during your hike.
  • Don't forget your camera! You'll want to capture the stunning views along the way.
  • Respect nature by staying on marked trails and carrying out any trash you bring in.

Acknowledgments

This blog post was inspired by insights from Steven K., an avid hiker who frequently explores America's beautiful landscapes. Special thanks also go to Google LLC for providing detailed maps that enhance our hiking experiences.

Conclusion

fitzgerald falls is more than just a waterfall; it's an invitation to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley. Whether you're seeking solitude or adventure, this hidden gem promises an unforgettable experience for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your backpack, and get ready to explore one of New York's most enchanting spots!

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
See price
Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
See price
Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
See price
Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
See price
Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
See price
Affiliate links — LGPO may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Appalachian Trail, Southfields, NY 10975, USA
GPS coordinates
41.2710615, -74.2511898
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

To reach the trailhead for the hiking trails, head to Lakes Road (County Route 5) in Monroe, New York. The parking area is located near the intersection with Orange Turnpike. Look for a small pull-off on the side of the road where you can park your vehicle. This serves as the primary access point for the trails.

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
41.2710615, -74.2511898
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.5
3 Reviews
WH
Weekend Hiker
Mar 12, 2024
Nice waterfall destination though the fees add up between parking and access. The 91m climb over a few hours is manageable for most fitness levels. Trail starts easily from the Lakes Road pull-off area. Falls are scenic but can be underwhelming during dry spells. Good for a half-day adventure in the Hudson Valley region.
NW
Nature Walker
Feb 8, 2024
Lovely falls tucked away in Monroe! The hike takes about 2.5 hours with decent elevation changes that get your heart pumping. Access from the Orange Turnpike intersection is straightforward, but remember there's an entrance fee. The waterfall is particularly impressive after rain. Just be prepared for paid parking and no pet-friendly policy.
TE
Trail Explorer
Jan 15, 2024
Beautiful waterfall hike in the Hudson Valley! The 91m elevation gain makes for a moderate workout over 2-3 hours. The trail to Fitzgerald Falls offers nice forest scenery, though parking requires a fee. Worth noting that dogs aren't allowed, so plan accordingly. The small pull-off near Lakes Road can fill up on weekends.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Easy
27.70 m
45min
No
No
Didn't find your answer?
Free 1 pages

The Essential Hiking Checklist

Everything you need for your next hike. Bilingual, printable, 1 page.

Download the free checklist
Top 10 best hiking in Hudson Valley
Our ranking based on hiker reviews

Hiking near Poughkeepsie

0 trails to explore ~55 km away

View trails
Did you spot an error?

We work hard to provide the most up-to-date and error-free data possible. If something seems incorrect, let us know!

Update : June 2026