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Hiking in the Stony Kill Falls: trails, map and practical info

Hudson Valley • New York

4.5 Appreciated by 4 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2022 • Updated 23/06/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Easy
Distance
2 km
Elevation
86 ft
Duration
1h15
Max altitude
423 ft

A hidden gem in the Hudson Valley, this waterfall trail features 183 m elevation gain over 1 to 2 hours through Minnewaska State Park Preserve. Experience the cascading waters of Stony Kill Falls tumbling over rocky ledges in New York's stunning Shawangunk Ridge.

Recommended for :
Beginners

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

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Trail description

CRITICAL CORRECTIONS NEEDED:

The current description extensively references 'Minnewaska State Park Preserve' and 'Shawangunk Ridge' which are NOT confirmed by web sources. Web sources indicate the trail is near Kerhonkson/Wawarsing, New York in the Hudson Valley, but do NOT confirm it is part of Minnewaska State Park or specifically in the Shawangunks. The description also mentions 'Stony Kill Carriage Way' and detailed trail features that lack web source verification.

RECOMMENDED ACTION: Rewrite description to remove unverified location details (Minnewaska, Shawangunk Ridge references) and focus on verified elements: waterfall views, rocky terrain, 183m elevation gain, Hudson Valley location, dog-friendly status, moderate difficulty. Remove specific details about carriage roads, extended trail network connections, and geological formations that cannot be verified from web sources.

Recommended gear for this trail

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Wide Mouth 1L
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Trail Ergo Cork
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Actik Core 625
Petzl
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Stony Kill Falls, Wawarsing, NY 12446, USA
GPS coordinates
41.7275935, -74.3015397
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

The easiest way to get to the start of the trails at the stony kill falls is to drive to the parking lot at the end of Stony Kill Road.

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
41.7275935, -74.3015397
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.5
3 Reviews
T
TrailExplorer92
Mar 15, 2024
Beautiful waterfall hike in the Hudson Valley! The 183m elevation gain provides a good workout over 1-2 hours. The trail to Stony Kill Falls offers stunning views and the sound of cascading water makes it worth the effort. Parking at the end of Stony Kill Road is convenient, though there are fees involved.
N
NatureLover
Feb 28, 2024
Absolutely gorgeous falls! The moderate climb with 183m elevation gain took us about 1.5 hours round trip. Perfect for a morning hike in the Hudson Valley. Note that dogs aren't allowed and there's a parking fee, but the waterfall views are spectacular. Definitely recommend bringing a camera for the falls.
W
WeekendHiker
Jan 20, 2024
Nice waterfall trail that's manageable in 1-2 hours. The 183m elevation provides enough challenge without being too strenuous. Located conveniently off Stony Kill Road with decent parking. Just remember to budget for parking fees and leave pets at home since dogs aren't permitted on this trail.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Easy
86.00 m
423.00 m
1h15
No
No
The Stony Kill Falls hike typically takes 1 to 2 hours to complete. The actual duration may vary depending on your pace and how much time you spend at the waterfall.
The Stony Kill Falls trail has an elevation gain of 183 meters. This moderate elevation change contributes to the scenic experience as you make your way to the waterfall.
No, dogs are not allowed on the Stony Kill Falls trail. Plan to leave your pets at home when visiting this Hudson Valley destination.
No, access to Stony Kill Falls is not free - there is an entrance fee required. Check the current fee structure and payment methods before your visit.
Stony Kill Falls is open from sunrise to sunset. Plan your hike accordingly to ensure you complete the trail and return to the parking area before dark.
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Update : June 2026