Devil’s Hopyard State Park
A stepped waterfall, mysterious potholes, hemlock woods, camping, and rocky trails make a compact park with both geological and folkloric layers.
Artwork inspired by Eric Sloane
Chapman Falls drops about sixty feet over resistant ledges, breaking into multiple ribbons after rain. Circular holes in the rock inspired folklore but reflect water-driven abrasion and geology rather than supernatural hoofprints. Trails climb beyond the falls into quiet forest, ravines, and viewpoints.
The rocks beside the falls are wet, polished, and dangerous; remain at established viewpoints. Water volume changes dramatically with rainfall, while camping and facilities are seasonal. Download the trail map before entering deeper loops, and keep children away from unfenced edges and swift channels. Quieter downstream trails reveal more than the crowded overlook alone.
- Waterfall
- Chapman Falls
- Drop
- About 60 feet
- Overnight
- Seasonal camping
Quick guide
- See the steps
- Watch water divide across the ledged face.
- Test the legend
- Compare pothole folklore with geological explanation.
Know before you go
- Stay at viewpoints
- Do not climb wet ledges for a closer photograph.
- Check recent rain
- Flow and footing change quickly after storms.
- Carry the map
- Interior trails extend beyond the obvious falls loop.
- Leave folklore intact
- Enjoy the name without mistaking legend for geology.
Good to know
Fatal falls are possible on the slick bedrock. Swimming and climbing near the cascade are poor substitutes for signed overlooks, especially after rain, during ice, or when leaves conceal the edge.
Notice these
- Chapman Falls
- Rock potholes
- Hemlock forest