Waterfall Hikes in the Adirondacks

From short walks to roadside cascades to rewarding backcountry adventures, the Adirondacks are home to some of New York's most spectacular waterfall hikes. Fed by mountain streams and flowing across some of the oldest exposed rock in North America, these waterfalls showcase the wild beauty that defines the six-million-acre Adirondack Park.

Whether you're looking for a family-friendly trail, a scenic picnic stop, or a challenging hike ending at a roaring cascade, you'll find waterfalls worth exploring in every corner of the Adirondacks. Visit in spring for peak water flow, summer for cool forest escapes, fall for brilliant foliage, or winter to witness frozen waterfalls transformed into natural works of art.

man standing near an Adirondack waterfall

Northern Adirondacks

Bog River Falls

0.2-mile round trip easy hike
There is a trail on each side of the river, and the falls can also be seen from a stone bridge.
The trailhead is located on County Route 421, off of Route 30 south from Tupper Lake. Follow a bridge over the falls and the parking area will be on the left.

Stone Valley Recreation Area

7.5-mile easy-to-moderate loop
Find waterfall gorges, rapids, and rock outcroppings along the trail
The trail follows alongside the Raquette River
Off of State Highway 56, the trail can be accessed near the Colton Museum and across the bridge at the Colton Fire Station on Mill Street

St. Regis Falls

A short, easy walk on the St. Regis Falls Scenic Campsite
The campsite features beautiful new and rustic cabins overlooking the falls.
The trailhead is located at the St. Regis Falls Scenic Campsite.
During the spring and summer, listen to live concerts at the campsite’s pavilion.

Harper Falls

2-mile round trip easy hike
Harper Falls is an impressive 60-foot waterfall with small cascades.
The trailhead is located on Donnerville Road (sometimes spelled Downerville), off of County Route 27.
Drive to the nearby Town of Canton for a relaxing meal.

Bog River Falls in the Adirondacks; image credit to John Haywood

Central Adirondacks

Stag Brook Falls

Approximately 1-mile round trip moderate hike
After seeing Stag Brook Falls, follow the trail a little further to see additional waterfalls of various sizes.
The trailhead is located at the Whiteface Mountain Ski Center, off of Route 86 toward Wilmington. Walk up to the bridge over the West Branch Ausable River and follow the dirt road to a “T” intersection where you’ll see a trail register.
Fuel up for your hike with breakfast at the Country Bear, less than five miles from the trailhead.

Beaver Meadow Falls

7.4-mile round trip easy hike
Beaver Meadow Falls is 60-feet high and cascades down a series of step-like rocks.
The trailhead is located on Route 73 outside of Keene Valley.
Get energized for your hike with breakfast at Noon Mark Diner in Keene Valley.

High Falls Gorge

30-minute easy walk along bridges, walkways, and trails
There are four waterfalls to explore at High Falls Gorge—Rainbow Falls, Climax Falls, Mini Falls, and Main Falls.
High Falls Gorge is located off of NY-86 in Wilmington, less than 10 miles from Lake Placid.
Browse the shops along Main Street in nearby Lake Placid.

Stag Brook Falls in the Adirondacks; image credit to John Haywood

Southern Adirondacks

Death Brook Falls

0.6-mile round trip easy hike
Also known as Secret Falls, Death Brook Falls is approximately 70-feet high, and is perfect for all skill levels.
The trailhead is located just past the entrance to Golden Beach Campground, off of Route 28 going toward Raquette Lake.
Make it a weekend getaway or get dinner after your hike at Raquette Lake Hotel and Tap Room.

Auger Fall

1.25-mile easy loop
Auger Falls features water pouring over large rocks in a gorge on the Sacandaga River.
The trailhead is located off of Route 30 outside of Speculator.
Head to the nearby Village of Speculator for an ice cream cone or meal at one of the local restaurants.

Shelving Rock Falls

A short, easy round trip hike
Shelving Rock Falls features a 50-foot cascading waterfall along the east side of Lake George.
The trailhead is located on Shelving Rock Road. You can also get to the trail by boat from Log Bay in Lake George.
After your hike, drive south to Lake George for a beer and a bite to eat at the Adirondack Pub and Brewery.

OK Slip Falls

6.4-mile round trip moderate hike
OK Slip Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in the Adirondacks.
The trailhead parking area is located on Route 28, less than 10 miles from Indian Lake.
Refuel with a meal at the Indian Lake Restaurant and Tavern.

Death Brook Falls in the Adirondacks; image credit to John Haywood

More Waterfalls to Explore

Waterfall Hiking Safety Tips

A snowy winter with lots of accumulation in the higher elevations and/or more rain throughout the spring and summer may mean a longer waterfall season.
Late summer through the fall usually means less water to flow over a precipice.
Winter in the Adirondacks is best for ice climbing on frozen waterfalls.
Bring a camera to enjoy the views long after you leave.
Be cautious of your surroundings when viewing waterfalls and think safety first.
Wear proper footwear. Sandals and flip-flops are not appropriate for hiking, especially over rocky terrain. Hiking boots or sneakers will have the much-needed traction.
Always carry a flashlight, headlamp, or another sufficient source of light, and extra batteries, in case your adventure carries into the dark. Check to make sure your light functions properly before heading out.
Learn how to use a compass and map and carry them with you, no matter how short your planned hike may be.
Avoid wearing cotton and denim. Both materials will hold moisture which can create grave problems, such as hypothermia, should a hiker experience unexpected issues and have to spend the night in the forest. Breathable, lightweight materials that dry quickly, along with socks made of wool, will make your experience much more enjoyable.
Pack a raincoat and back-up clothing in case the weather changes, as it often does.
Using at least one trekking pole is a great way to increase stability and helps with ascending and descending.
Do not put yourself, or others, at risk in order to get a selfie, photograph, or better view. Don't ignore warning signs and barriers as they are in place to keep you safe. If hikers ignore these precautions, they alone are responsible; not social media.
Always pack a snack and bring water or a sports drink in order to keep yourself hydrated. If you're an avid hiker, a water filtration device is a good addition to your pack.
It's always a good idea to carry a first aid kit, but one should also consider duct tape and zip-ties in case the need for field-repairs arises.
Follow the Leave No Trace Principles. Bring a plastic bag to pack out fruit peels, wrappers, and other trash you may create. (Throwing food or food wrappers may attract wildlife, such as bears, to the trails.) Keep the trails clean and safe for others to enjoy.