About Middle Falls
Middle Falls is a named waterfall in Monroe County, New York, located about 1.6 miles northwest of Rochester. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Rochester West 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 43°10′35″ N, 77°37′41″ W (43.17638, -77.62797). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Lower Falls, 0.2 miles to the north.
USGS gazetteer description: The central of three large waterfalls on the Genesee River in Rochester, N.Y. The falls is approximately 25 feet in height. The nature of the falls has been altered over time by structures to divert water to the penstock of a hydroelectric power station.
Name history: """Middle Falls"" is that name that has been applied to this waterfall for many years. It previously was known by other names, but they no longer are in use."
Weather at Middle 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 Middle Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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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 Middle Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
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 43.17638, -77.62797. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Middle Falls
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Middle Falls located?
Middle Falls is in Monroe County, New York, about 1.6 miles northwest of Rochester. Its coordinates are 43.17638, -77.62797 (43°10′35″ N, 77°37′41″ W).
What town is closest to Middle Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Rochester, NY, about 1.6 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Middle Falls?
The closest is Lower Falls (0.2 mi north). Others within reach include High Falls (1.3 mi), Honeoye Falls (16 mi), and Buttermilk Falls (21 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Middle Falls?
Middle Falls appears on the USGS Rochester West 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.