Best Times to Visit

Seasonal guide to planning your perfect Ricketts Glen Falls Trail adventure

At a Glance

Best Overall

May & September

Moderate crowds, good weather, strong waterfall flow

Strongest Waterfalls

April & May

Snowmelt and spring rains create peak flow

Seasonal Guide

Spring (March - May)

Peak waterfall season

Pros

  • • Strongest waterfall flow of the year
  • • Snowmelt creates dramatic cascades
  • • Wildflowers begin blooming (late spring)
  • • Moderate temperatures for hiking
  • • Less crowded than fall

Cons

  • • Muddy and slippery trail conditions
  • • Unpredictable weather
  • • Potential for late season snow
  • • Flooding risk during heavy rains

Monthly Breakdown

March:Trail may be closed due to ice
April:Excellent waterfall flow
May:Peak conditions overall

What to Expect

  • • Temperatures: 35-65°F
  • • Frequent rain showers
  • • Muddy sections common
  • • Emerging green foliage

Summer (June - August)

Peak hiking season

Pros

  • • Warmest and driest hiking conditions
  • • Longest daylight hours
  • • Lush green forest canopy
  • • Stable weather patterns
  • • Cool microclimate in gorges

Cons

  • • Reduced waterfall flow
  • • Highest crowds and parking issues
  • • Hot and humid conditions
  • • Biting insects (mosquitoes, ticks)
  • • Some waterfalls may be mere trickles

Monthly Breakdown

June:Good conditions, moderate crowds
July:Peak crowds, low water
August:Lowest waterfall flow

What to Expect

  • • Temperatures: 65-85°F
  • • High humidity levels
  • • Occasional thunderstorms
  • • Dense forest canopy

Fall (September - November)

Most popular season

Pros

  • • Spectacular fall foliage
  • • Comfortable hiking temperatures
  • • Increasing waterfall flow
  • • Lower humidity
  • • Fewer bugs

Cons

  • • Extreme crowds in October
  • • Parking fills up by 8-9 AM
  • • Slippery wet leaves on trail
  • • Shorter daylight hours
  • • Unpredictable weather

Monthly Breakdown

September:Excellent conditions, fewer crowds
October:Peak crowds, parking nightmare
November:Cool weather, bare trees

What to Expect

  • • Temperatures: 40-70°F
  • • Colorful foliage display
  • • Increasing rainfall
  • • Rapidly changing conditions

Winter (December - February)

Trail typically closed

Trail Closure

The Falls Trail is typically closed from December through March due to ice and snow conditions. Hiking is only permitted for experienced ice climbers with proper equipment.

Winter Conditions

  • • Ice-covered rocks and steps
  • • Snow accumulation on trails
  • • Frozen waterfalls create ice formations
  • • Sub-freezing temperatures
  • • Limited daylight hours

Alternative Activities

  • • Cross-country skiing on park roads
  • • Snowshoeing on designated trails
  • • Ice fishing on park lakes
  • • Winter photography opportunities
  • • Visit nearby indoor attractions

Crowd Calendar

LOW

Minimal crowds, easy parking

MODERATE

Some crowds, arrive early

HIGH

Very crowded, arrive before 8 AM

Month
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun
April
L
L
L
L
M
M
M
May
L
L
L
L
M
M
M
July
M
M
M
M
H
H
H
October
M
M
M
M
H
H
H

Weather Considerations

Rainfall Impact

After Heavy Rain

Waterfalls are at their most spectacular 24-48 hours after heavy rainfall. However, trails may be muddy and stream crossings dangerous.

During Dry Spells

Extended dry periods (especially late summer) can reduce waterfalls to mere trickles. Check recent weather before visiting.

Temperature Guide

Gorge Climate

The gorges are typically 10-15°F cooler than the surrounding area. Dress in layers and bring extra clothing.

Seasonal Range

  • • Spring: 35-65°F
  • • Summer: 65-85°F
  • • Fall: 40-70°F
  • • Winter: 15-35°F