This Scenic New York Hike Leads to a Stunning, Little-Known Waterfall

If you’re looking for a fun hike with a beautiful surprise at the end, you’ll love this waterfall hike in New York. The 3.4-mile out-and-back trail meanders through Allen Lake State Forest near Belfast in Allegany County. It’s rated moderate and is pleasant at any time of year, but our favorite thing about this trail is that few people know about it. So, you’ll be able to enjoy peace and serenity along the way.

Are you ready for a nice walk in the woods? That's just what you'll find when you set off on the Hidden Waterfall Trail in Allen Lake State Forest. The predominantly flat and easy trail is kid and dog-friendly, making it ideal for hikers of all ages and skill levels.

However, you will face some obstacles along this moderate trail that's beautiful any time of the year (but especially drenched in the colors of fall). The good news is the trail is well-marked, so you shouldn't have to worry about wandering off of the path. The not-so-good news? Some sections of the trail are overgrown and others are steep. Be prepared for a workout as you'll have an elevation gain of 255 feet. Even for a somewhat novice hiker like me, the elevation gain isn't so bad that it would deter me from hiking to the hidden waterfall.

The trees and the beauty of nature surround you here. Usually a quiet trail, all you'll hear is your footsteps, the wind, the water, and the birds. This area is pretty damp, so you can expect to see some interesting mushrooms in the forest. Along with the dampness, expect mud, especially after it rains or snows.

That muddiness, combined with hiking through a small gorge, means your journey might be wet and messy, so it's wise to wear waterproof shoes. You can also expect several creek crossings en route to the waterfall.

This is a very special place, where you'll probably see some toads, squirrels, and deer. There can be a lot of ticks here, too, so be sure to wear long pants and check yourself all over after your hike. If you bring a dog, check him or her, too. Keep an eye out for poison ivy, which is prominent along the path. Some hikers recommend wearing long pants due to the prevalence of thorns.

Finally, you'll reach the hidden waterfall. The trail generally takes around an hour or so to complete, so if you're not in a hurry, take a few minutes to relax, admire the cascade, and snap photos. Sometimes the waterfall is a little dry, but most of the time it really flows.

You can get pretty close to the waterfall but, because it's in a ravine, pay attention as you're walking. Watch for overgrowth and exposed tree roots on the ground, so you don't twist an ankle.

You'll love this hike. There's nothing quite like a trail with a waterfall at the end. Plan a trip out to western central New York soon to check out the quiet Hidden Waterfall Trail, one of the best hikes in Allen Lake State Forest.

Have you followed the Hidden Waterfall Trail in NY? If not, have you added it to your must-hike list yet? What are your favorite hikes in Allen Lake State Forest? Nominate them for a chance to have one, or all, featured in an upcoming article.

If you love chasing waterfalls as much as I do, keep the adventure going by ticking off these waterfall hikes in New York. For more of the best hiking trails in New York, check out AllTrails+, where you'll find a comprehensive list, including maps, photos, and reviews.