July 22, 2014

Some of the best scenic destinations near Lake Placid

Lake Placid is loaded with scenic destinations, but not all of them are long hikes or even moderate hikes; the Lake Placid Region can fulfill it all. These destinations I have chosen are perfect for those not wishing to do much hiking at all. In fact these destinations are within a ten minute walk of the parking lot, no special hiking equipment required, you could even do them in your flip flops if you want. I hope you enjoy these selected short ventures and take lots of pictures while you’re out there.  

Cascade Lakes and Cascade Waterfall

Cascade Lake
A Boulder on Lower Cascade Lake

Where am I going? It’s simple; just follow Route 73 out of Lake Placid toward Keene. Continue for 8.25 miles or so to the parking area between the two Cascade Lakes.

This parking area gives you a ton of options just as much as a scenic destination for taking some outstanding shots. But you can roll up your pant legs and wade out in the water, or go in for a full swim. You can have a picnic and lay out a blanket and take a nap. You could also launch a canoe or kayak if you prefer. But you can also go for a short hike up to the new #7 Slide which leads you to the base of the Cascade Waterfall.

To reach the falls, cross a small footbridge at the back of the parking lot and follow a quite distinct foot path. This path is unmarked but will only lead you back to the slide. The slide is at a very low grade and very close to flat in most sections. Once on the rubble covered slide a well packed path will bring you up to the base of the waterfall. During dry spells the waterfall is less dramatic, but hit it right and you can cool off in the spray.

Waterfall
The Cascade Waterfall

South Meadow

This is where? Follow Route 73 out of Lake Placid toward Keene for 3.2 miles to Adirondack Loj Road on the right (first right after the ski jumps). Follow this road for just under 4-miles to South Meadow Road on the left. South Meadow Road is a dirt road and sometimes a bit rough. Drive this road to its end at the South Meadow Parking Area.

South Meadow
In South Meadow

This parking area is a very popular hiking destination, with the High Peaks accessed easily from here. South Meadow is a quiet obscure destination with a pretty cool, wild feel to it. The hiking trail is just at the back of the parking lot. As you hike down the trail you will come to a grassy area, you are now in South Meadow. Feel free to explore upstream through the tall grasses and wildflowers. The mountains pour down from above and the birds play their song in your ears as you walk through a most serene area.  

Jay Covered Bridge

Where is the bridge? Follow Route 73 out of Lake Placid toward Keene. Once in Keene turn left onto Route 9N and follow it toward Jay. Continue on Route 9N through Upper Jay and into Jay. Once in Jay take the right, directly across from Route 86. Follow this down and take you first right and park at the bridge.

This is also a popular swimming destination and at times can be quite crowded. You can walk across the bridge, but it is not open to vehicular traffic. Great views of the cascade on the Ausable River rush below. Be sure to bring you swim suit, the water always has that slight cooling chill to take the edge off a humid day.

Ausable
The Ausable River at the Jay Covered Bridge

Keene Pond Walk

Where is this pond anyway? Just follow Route 73 out of Lake Placid and continue through Keene and into Keene Valley. As you pass through Keene Valley there will be a major trailhead on your right for Roostercomb Mountain, park here.

The pond walk is simply a small beaver pond located behind the Keene Central School.  From the trailhead you will have to cross a long bridge over a beaver flow. The trail register is immediately after the bridge. About 0.1 miles further you will come to the pond. A trail leads all the way around the pond and is less than 0.25 miles in length. This is an excellent scenic destination for birding, wildlife viewing, and a short peaceful stroll. Blueberry Mountain and Porters Ridge loom off in the distance.

Base of Roaring Brook Falls

To get there just; leave Lake Placid on Route 73, follow Route 73 toward Keene. Drive through Keene and Keene Valley and toward Saint Huberts. The trailhead for Giant and Rocky Falls is located across Route 73 from the AMR parking, approximately 3-miles outside of Keene Valley.

This hike is a simple and short excursion along a very popular trail. The start is at one of the main trailheads for Giant Mountain. In a short distance the trail splits, steep left is to Giant and right is to the base of Roaring Brook Falls. Continue along a flat trail as the steep slopes come down on your left. In no time at all you will be able to hear the falls and then quickly see them. The massive rock face stands over you as the falls cascade down mostly on the right. During times of heavy rain this rather tall set of falls will rain mist upon its visitors.

I you need more insight on places to go, see what other short hikes are in the area. Maybe you want a personalized private tour of what the Lake Placid and High Peaks Region has to offer; our local guide services will be more than happy to accommodate.

Cascade Lake
A Boulder on Lower Cascade Lake
Waterfall
The Cascade Waterfall
South Meadow
In South Meadow
Ausable
The Ausable River at the Jay Covered Bridge

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