Diamond Notch Falls Hike in the Catskil

If you’re looking for an easy Catskills waterfall hike that still feels like a real outdoor adventure, Diamond Notch Falls is a great choice. Starting from Spruceton Road, this scenic trail follows the Diamond Notch Trail through quiet forest and along the creek to one of the prettiest waterfall spots in the Catskills.

This is a short, family-friendly hike that works well for a quick outing, a relaxed half-day on trail, or a simple scenic walk with kids. The route is about 3 miles round-trip if you continue up to the lean-to, with roughly 500 feet of elevation gain, and it stays approachable without losing that classic Catskills feel.

Diamond Notch Falls Hike Summary

• Trailhead: Spruceton Road trailhead near West Kill / Lexington, NY.

• Route: Out-and-back on the Diamond Notch Trail to Diamond Notch Falls, with an optional extension to the lean-to.

• Distance: About 3 miles round-trip to the lean-to.

• Elevation Gain: About 500 feet.

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate.

• Best For: Families, casual hikers, waterfall chasers, and anyone looking for a short scenic Catskills hike.

Getting Started

The hike begins at the end of Spruceton Road, where the trailhead sits close to the West Kill. From the start, the Diamond Notch Trail gives you a relaxed introduction to the route, with a gentle grade and a quiet forest setting that makes it easy to settle in.

One of the best things about this hike is how quickly it feels scenic. You do not have to work hard for the good stuff, and that makes it a strong option for hikers who want a low-key trail without sacrificing atmosphere.

Along the Creek

The trail follows the creek for much of the approach, which gives the hike a calm, shady feel. Water is a constant presence here, and the sound of the creek adds to the experience as you make your way deeper into the woods.

The path is well-marked and straightforward, but it still has enough character to feel like a proper Catskills hike. It is the kind of trail that works well in just about any season, and it is especially nice when you want something easy but still scenic.

Diamond Notch Falls

Diamond Notch Falls is the highlight of the hike, and it is easy to see why so many people make the short trip in. The waterfall is attractive, peaceful, and a nice place to stop for a break before turning around.

When the creek is flowing well, the falls are even better. It is not a huge waterfall, but it has the kind of setting that makes the hike feel worthwhile from start to finish.

Optional Walk to the Lean-to

If you want to make the hike a little longer, continue uphill to the Diamond Notch Lean-to. This adds a bit more trail time and a touch more climbing, but it still keeps the outing manageable for most hikers.

The lean-to makes a nice bonus destination if you want to stretch the day a little. If not, the falls alone are already a solid turnaround point.

Why It’s Worth It

Diamond Notch Falls is one of those hikes that delivers more than you expect for the amount of effort it takes. You get a waterfall, a creekside walk, a shady forest setting, and a trail that most people can enjoy without much planning.

It is a great Catskills hike for families, newer hikers, or anyone looking for a short scenic trail near Spruceton Road. If you want an easy hike that still feels like a real getaway, this one belongs on your list.

For More Information 

• Catskill Trails Map Set
• Trails Illustrated Map for the Catskill Park

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Find additional information about the Catskill Park by visiting the Catskills Visitor Center

• https://catskillsvisitorcenter.org​.

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Important Hiking Considerations:

1. Weather: Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for changes in conditions. Weather can be unpredictable, so bring appropriate clothing and gear. 
2. Safety: Some sections of the trail can be steep and rocky, so use caution and watch your footing. It's also a good idea to hike with a friend or let someone know about your hiking plans. 
3. Leave No Trace: As with any outdoor activity, remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Pack out any trash, stay on the trail, and be respectful of the natural environment.

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