Moss Glen Falls in Granville, Vermont, is a stunning natural wonder, offering visitors a scenic escape with its impressive 30-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. However, this picturesque site hides several dangers that are not immediately apparent to the unprepared. Despite its easy accessibility and popularity, there are significant risks associated with the falls that can turn a serene visit into a perilous experience. By understanding the hazards and taking the proper precautions, visitors can enjoy the beauty of Moss Glen Falls while staying safe.
Slippery Rocks and Trails
The most obvious hazard at Moss Glen Falls is the slick, rocky terrain that surrounds the waterfall and its viewing areas. Moss grows abundantly on the rocks near the water, making them extremely slippery, particularly after rain. The falls are fed by Deer Hollow Brook, and the moisture in the area can make the rocks a danger even on seemingly dry days. The root-laden trails leading up to the falls are another hazard. These roots, exposed due to erosion, create tripping hazards for hikers, and the steep ascent can become treacherous if hikers lose their footing.
Trails around the falls are often informal, created by frequent foot traffic rather than designed and maintained by park authorities. The lack of clear signage and maintenance can make these trails deceptively dangerous, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. Some trails offer beautiful vantage points, but they also bring visitors dangerously close to the edge of cliffs or eroding paths.
Unpredictable Water Levels
The water flow at Moss Glen Falls can vary greatly depending on the season and recent weather conditions. During periods of heavy rain or spring snowmelt, the falls become more powerful, creating strong currents that can catch visitors off guard. The creek bed leading to the falls may appear shallow and calm, but the force of the water can change rapidly, especially after storms. Wading through the water to get closer to the falls might seem like a fun idea, but it can be incredibly dangerous as the depth and force of the water can become overwhelming without warning.
This unpredictability also extends to swimming in the plunge pool below the falls. While swimming is a common activity in the area, the force of the water can cause strong undercurrents. Additionally, hidden rocks beneath the surface can make swimming hazardous. Diving or jumping into the pool is especially dangerous, as the water’s depth can vary significantly depending on recent rainfall.
Erosion and Falling Debris
Another danger at Moss Glen Falls is the constant erosion of the cliffs surrounding the waterfall. The ground near the edge of the falls is unstable, particularly during wet weather when the soil is saturated. Visitors who venture too close to the edge risk the ground giving way beneath them. The steep slopes around the waterfall also make it easy to lose balance, and a fall could result in serious injury.
In addition to the unstable ground, falling debris is a concern at Moss Glen Falls. Rocks and branches from the cliffs above the falls can come loose, especially after a storm, and fall into the area below. Visitors standing near the base of the falls or hiking along the cliffs may be at risk of being struck by falling debris. Staying aware of your surroundings and avoiding areas directly beneath cliffs can help mitigate this risk.
Overcrowding and Trail Wear
Moss Glen Falls’ easy accessibility from Route 100 makes it a popular stop for tourists, especially during peak travel seasons. The high volume of foot traffic exacerbates the erosion of the trails and makes the area around the falls congested. When the trails are crowded, it becomes more difficult to navigate safely, and hikers may be tempted to take informal paths to avoid the crowd. These paths, however, often lead to more dangerous areas with steep drop-offs and unstable ground.
The viewing platforms can also become overcrowded, making it challenging for visitors to maintain a safe distance from the edges. The combination of slippery surfaces, narrow paths, and an influx of visitors increases the risk of accidents.
Wildlife Encounters
While most visitors to Moss Glen Falls are captivated by its natural beauty, the area is also home to large wildlife, including moose. Moose sightings are common near the falls, particularly at dawn and dusk. Although moose are generally shy and avoid human interaction, they can become aggressive if they feel threatened, particularly if they have calves with them.
Moose are large, powerful animals, and encounters with them can be dangerous, especially on narrow trails. It’s crucial to keep a safe distance if you spot one and avoid startling the animal. Moose tend to inhabit swampy areas, which are plentiful around the falls, and they are particularly active during the cooler parts of the day.
Lack of Cell Service and Remote Location
Moss Glen Falls is located in a relatively remote part of Vermont, and cell service is often unreliable in the area. This lack of connectivity can be problematic if an accident occurs, as it may be difficult to contact emergency services or find your way if you become disoriented. Visitors should not rely solely on their phones for navigation and should bring physical maps or download offline maps before heading to the falls.
In addition, the remote location means that medical assistance is not readily available. Hikers should carry a first aid kit and be prepared for the possibility of having to deal with injuries or accidents on their own until help arrives. Taking basic precautions, such as informing someone of your travel plans and expected return time, can help ensure your safety in case of an emergency.
Conclusion
Moss Glen Falls in Granville, Vermont, is a beautiful and rewarding destination for nature lovers, but it comes with hidden dangers that visitors need to be aware of. The combination of slippery rocks, unstable trails, unpredictable water levels, wildlife encounters, overcrowding, and lack of cell service makes it essential for visitors to exercise caution. By staying on designated paths, keeping a safe distance from the edge, and being mindful of the surroundings, visitors can enjoy the falls safely while taking in the stunning scenery.
