Why are we drawn to the majestic cascade of water as it drops and falls? Is it the elemental force, the power to carve the landscape to fit, to find a way across cliffs and mountains, through valleys and deep forests? Or is it simply that the same gravity that pulls water to earth, pulls us to water?
The best time of year to view waterfalls here in the Adirondacks is late spring into summer. When planning a trip to view waterfalls in the Adirondacks, keep these basic tips in mind:
Hiking to Beaver Meadow Falls: The trailhead is located on Route 73 outside of Keene Valley directly across from the Roaring Brook Falls Trail about three miles outside of Keene Valley. This trail crosses private property, so be sure to follow the dirt trail from the parking area to the sign for Gothics and Beaver Meadow Falls. Roundtrip should take about 5-6 hours.
Apres-Hike: Check out the hand-crafted coffee and sandwiches at SubAlpine Coffee or fresh home cooking at the famous Noon Mark Diner.
Hiking to Shelving Rock Falls: Begin on Buttermilk Falls Road, which changes to Sly Pond Road and then to Shelving Rock Road. Look for the Hogtown trailhead parking lot. From this trailhead, follow the road for 2.5 miles to where it crosses the Shelving Rock Brook via a bridge. Park at the bridge and walk to the falls.
Apres-Hike: Check out the hand-crafted libations and burgers at Adirondack Pub and Brewery in Lake George.
Hiking to OK Slip Falls: The parking area for the trailhead is located on Route 28, approximately 8 miles east of the Village of Indian Lake. Hike for half a mile on the trail and turn right at the sign for OK Slip Gorge and continue for about 2.5 miles to the falls.
Apres-Hike: Look over your awesome photos and Instagram traction at the Indian Lake Restaurant and Tavern.
Hiking to Gleasman Falls: From Lowville, drive east on River Road to Beach Mill Road to the Beach Mill Pond Trail located in the Independence River Wild Forest. Follow the trail for 2.9 miles to the falls.
Apres-Hike: Fuel up or replenish at this one-of-a-kind diner off Hwy 26, Lloyd's of Loweville.
Hiking to Harper Falls: From the end of Tooley Pond Road, turn onto County Route 27 and turn left onto Donnerville Road. The trailhead is located at a small parking lot half a mile down Donnerville, Road, and the falls are another half-mile further on the trail.
Apres-Hike: Unwind over a plate of "Mile High Meatloaf" or a bowl of Lobster and Crab Mac and Cheese at The Club in Canton.
Hiking to St. Regis Falls: This trailhead is located near Paul Smith's College on Route 30. Turn left onto Keese Mill Road, and park at the parking lot about 2.5 miles down the road. The trailhead is located a short distance from the parking lot via a footbridge.
Apres-Hike: Nothing beats a refreshing homemade soft serve ice cream cone at the world famous road-side Donnelly's Ice Cream.
Hiking Woods Falls: Take NY 22 South across the Great Chazy River in Mooers. Turn right onto Gilbert Road, then left onto Woods Falls Road and park at the parking area. Continue to the falls, which are visible from the parking area.
Apres-Hike: Enjoy fresh organic goodies touting local meats, produce with free Wi-Fi in the cafe at Conroy Organics in the Adirondack Coast Region.
