About Hector Falls
Hector Falls is a named waterfall in Schuyler County, New York, located about 2.6 miles north of Watkins Glen. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Burdett 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 42°25′04″ N, 76°51′55″ W (42.41785, -76.86524). Named features close by in the federal gazetteer include Hector Falls Creek (stream, 0.2 mi), Glen Eldridge Tug Hollow (valley, 0.6 mi), and Tug Hollow Creek (stream, 0.6 mi). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Aunt Sarahs Falls, 4.6 miles to the south.
This famous cascade waterfall on Hector Falls Creek can be viewed from a bridge along Route 414.
More Photos
576 visitor photos are available on the Google Maps listing.
Weather at Hector Falls
Full NWS forecastForecast for the waterfall's exact location, not the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly.
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Source: National Weather Service.
Conditions at Hector Falls
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Times in New York time. Canyons and steep valleys lose direct sun earlier.
Elevation
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At the mapped waterfall point, from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Expect cooler temperatures than in nearby towns at lower elevation.
Nearest Stream Gauge
Checking for USGS gauges within about 8 miles...
Live discharge in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The gauge may be on a different stream than the falls; use the trend as a rough guide to how much water is running in the area.
Map and Directions
The marker shows the USGS-recorded position of Hector Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Visitor Ratings
Hector Falls holds a 4.7 average from 148 Google reviews. Distribution by star rating:
Named Landmarks Nearby
These named features from the USGS Geographic Names Information System lie within two miles of Hector Falls. Stream positions mark the stream's mouth as recorded by USGS.
- Hector Falls Creek — stream, 0.2 mi
- Glen Eldridge Tug Hollow — valley, 0.6 mi
- Tug Hollow Creek — stream, 0.6 mi
- Big Hollow Run — stream, 1.3 mi
- Excelsior Glen — valley, 1.9 mi
Before You Visit
- Water levels change quickly. Flow is usually strongest after rain and during snowmelt; see the best time to visit waterfalls.
- Stay back from the brink and off wet rock. Our waterfall safety guide covers the most common hazards.
- Check land ownership and access before you go. Some named falls sit on private property or in areas without a maintained trail.
- Download offline maps and save the coordinates 42.41785, -76.86524. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Hector Falls
- Oak Tree Falls, NY19 mi north
- Ithaca Falls, NY19 mi east
- Hosmer Falls, NY20 mi north
- Moonshine Falls, NY23 mi northeast
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Hector Falls located?
Hector Falls is in Schuyler County, New York, about 2.6 miles north of Watkins Glen. Its coordinates are 42.41785, -76.86524 (42°25′04″ N, 76°51′55″ W).
What town is closest to Hector Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Watkins Glen, NY, about 2.6 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Hector Falls?
The closest is Aunt Sarahs Falls (4.6 mi south). Others within reach include Shequaga Falls (5.1 mi), Glenora Falls (5.6 mi), and Silver Thread Falls (13 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Hector Falls?
Hector Falls appears on the USGS Burdett 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.