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Adirondack waterfalls
There are approximately 110 waterfalls in the Adirondacks, and dozens of those waterfalls are within a reasonable driving distance from the village of Lake Placid. Whether you want to appreciate these beautiful natural formations from wheelchair-accessible walkways, enjoy the sound of water cascading against the rocks in its plunge pool after a family hike, or break out the compass and map before heading into the wilderness with other experienced hikers, you’re starting your search in the right place. See below for some of our favorites!
Adirondack waterfalls
There are hundreds of waterfalls in the Adirondacks, with dozens of them within reasonable driving distance from Lake Placid, and in the spring they are roaring! Whether you want to appreciate these beautiful natural formations from wheelchair-accessible walkways, enjoy the sound of water cascading against the rocks in its plunge pool after a family hike, or break out the compass and map before heading into the wilderness with other experienced hikers, you’re starting your search in the right place. See below for some of our favorite ones!
Waterfall safety tips
Spring waterfalls can be dangerous, with snow melt swelling our waterways, and ice still glazing some of the rocks nearby. Please use caution when viewing these roaring cascades!
Adirondack waterfalls
There are hundreds of waterfalls in the Adirondacks, and dozens of them are within a reasonable driving distance from Lake Placid. Whether you want to appreciate these beautiful natural formations from wheelchair-accessible walkways, enjoy the sound of water cascading against the rocks and ice on a short winter hike, or break out the compass and map before heading into the snowy wilderness with other experienced hikers, you’re starting your search in the right place. See below for some waterfalls you could possibly visit this winter.
Waterfall safety tips
Waterfalls can be dangerous in the winter, with ice glazing the surfaces around it. Bring traction devices if you plan to visit a waterfall, and stay away from the chilly waters edge.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following waterfalls are classically shaped, with water flowing down in a single falls. These are often picture perfect, "Instagram worthy" waterfalls.
- Rainbow Falls - A waterfall folks often make a trip to come and see, hiked from the Ausable Mountain Reserve (AMR).
- Beaver Meadow Falls - A popular stop when hiking mountains in the Lower Great Range from the Ausable Mountain Reserve (AMR).
- Cascade Falls - Often seen from the road along the Cascade Lakes, but not oft walked to!
- Roaring Brook Falls - A tall waterfall in the Giant Mountain Wilderness along the Route 73 corridor.
- OK Slip Falls - Shout out to Hamilton County's waterfalls! This one is stunning, and a must visit.
These are some of the best waterfalls to take a dip in!
- Split Rock Falls - A very popular roadside summer swimming spot. Limited parking!
- Jay Covered Bridge - Historic roadside swimming spot at a series of shallow cascades.
- The Flume - A popular swimming hole! Wait until the spring melt has waned.
- Rocky Falls - A bit of a hike to get to this secluded, small spot to take a dip.
Yes! You can stop for a swim by Bushnell Falls on your way to the peaks of Basin and Haystack. Bushnell Falls is a little over a five-mile hike from The Garden trailhead, so you’ll have certainly earned a dip in its beautiful natural pool. If you’re hiking Mount Redfield you can find Uphill Brook Falls and marvel at the water cascading past you on its way to the Hudson River. New York’s tallest mountain, Mount Marcy, features a lookout from the top of Indian Falls which offers a stunning view of the MacIntyre Range.
These aren't the only 46ers that have waterfalls. Take a look at some maps, do research, ask questions of experts, and get out there!
Most of these waterfalls are on public land and free to access! There are some trailheads that do ask for a parking fee. If you plan to hike from The Garden in Keene Valley or from the Adirondack Loj and High Peaks Information Center, you will have to pay to park. Waterfalls located on private property, such as High Falls Gorge and Ausable Chasm, do require a fee to visit.
Here are some waterfalls that are roadside!
- Monument Falls - Directly adjacent to the road, with parking next to the historical monument
- High Falls Gorge - Pay to enter this near-roadside attraction!
- Roaring Brook Falls - Can be viewed from an overlook on Route 73. Be careful of oncoming vehicle traffic!
- Jay Covered Bridge rapids - Can be seen from a picnic area and on the bridge itself
- Ausable Chasm - Can be seen from a tall bridge
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! You can stop for a swim by Bushnell Falls on your way to the peaks of Basin and Haystack. Bushnell Falls is a little over a five-mile hike from The Garden trailhead, so you’ll have certainly earned a dip in its beautiful natural pool. If you’re hiking Mount Redfield you can find Uphill Brook Falls and marvel at the water cascading past you on its way to the Hudson River. New York’s tallest mountain, Mount Marcy, features a lookout from the top of Indian Falls which offers a stunning view of the MacIntyre Range.
These aren't the only 46ers that have waterfalls. Take a look at some maps, do research, ask questions of experts, and get out there!
For the most part, no! But there are some trailheads that do ask for a parking fee. If you plan to hike from The Garden in Keene Valley or from the Adirondack Loj and High Peaks Information Center, you will have to pay to park. Other waterfalls can be destinations themselves, but may involve a fee, such as High Falls Gorge and Ausable Chasm.
Here are some waterfalls that are roadside!
- Monument Falls
- High Falls Gorge
- Roaring Brook Falls (overlook from the road)
- Jay Covered Bridge rapids
- Ausable Chasm (seen from the bridge)
You can buy traction devices that make hiking near waterfalls safer (like Microspikes) at many local gear stores.
Yes! Just like your snowshoeing to other features, like peaks or ponds, winter can be dangerous. Be prepared for all winter conditions.
Looking for more information? Check out these resources about how to get out and experience the waterfalls in the Adirondacks.
Hiking from the Ausable Mountain Reserve (AMR) requires a free parking reservation. Waterfalls accessed from this trailhead include Beaver Meadow Falls and Rainbow Falls, two classic Adirondack hiking destinations!
Whether it's the snow melting in the spring or the heat in the summer, our waterways and trails can be dangerous. Extra preparation is required for a safe and fun experience. Check out Love Your ADK to learn how you can maximize your safety on trail in every season.
While we love waterfalls, getting out on the trail is a worthwhile endeavor no matter the destination! Take a look at other hiking options in the area, and consider combining a waterfall hike with a low summit or a backcountry lake!
Looking for a unique adventure that incorporates waterfalls? Head to the Lake Champlain region with your bicycle and visit some of the area's scenic cascades.
Are you a patch lover? How about a waterfall enthusiast? Combine the two, and the Hamilton County Waterfall Challenge is perfect for you. From easy to difficult hikes, and from massive drops to babbling flows, there's a cascade for every interest. We highly recommend you check this challenge out!
Waterfalls can be especially dangerous in the winter! Be sure to have traction devices, proper layers, and adequate food and water when hiking or visiting a waterfall. Ensure you're prepared for winter conditions—visit Love Your ADK for more information.
While we love waterfalls, getting out on the trail is a worthwhile endeavor no matter the destination! Take a look at other hiking options in the area, and maybe combine a waterfall hike with a low summit or a backcountry lake!
Are you a patch lover? How about a waterfal enthusiast? Combine the two, and the Hamilton County Waterfall Challenge is perfect for you. From easy to difficult, and from massive drops to babbling flows, there's a cascade for every interest. We highly recommend you check this challenge out!
Trekking to an icy waterfall in the winter can be a new experience for many! To play it safe, contact and hire a local Adirondack Guide for a safer first-time experience.
