Here's The Perfect Weekend Itinerary If You Love Exploring New York's Waterfalls
By Lea Monroe|Updated on February 09, 2023(Originally published February 08, 2023)
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Lea Monroe
Author
Writer for Only In Your State. Scribbling about all things New York and Buffalo related while also keeping you updated on the latest travel news! Inquiries: Lmonroe@onlyinyourstate.com
For most of us, living in New York means that we grew up chasing waterfalls, literally. From the Finger Lakes to the Catskills, you can find more waterfalls in the Empire State than you could ever dream of. But it’s up in the Adirondacks where you can find a ton of jaw-dropping waterfalls that are hidden away in some of our more remote locations. Need to enjoy a weekend away where you’ll be able to spend your free time by the water? Then take a look at this trip we’ve planned out that’s perfect if you’re in love with New York’s waterfalls just as much as we are. Some of the best natural wonders in New York are waiting for you…
One of our favorites, the adventure you'll take to get to Shelving Rock Falls is one that will be quick and easy. Right in the town of Fort Ann off of Buttermilk Falls Road where you'll find numerous popular trailheads, is a hike that will lead you to someplace magical. The hike comes in at under one-mile long round trip, taking you only .04 miles to get to the waterfall. The 50-foot waterfall is incredible to see in person and worth crossing off of your bucket list. This is one of the best waterfalls in New York.
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2. After you're done exploring Shelving Rock Falls, you'll take a quick hour-and-a-half drive up to the town of Indian Lake to see OK Slip Falls.
OK Slip Falls Trailhead, NY-28, Indian Lake, NY 12842, USA
One of the tallest falls in New York manages to remain off of the grid. OK Slip Falls looks like something you wouldn't expect to find in our state. To get to this incredible waterfall, you'll have to park in the parking lot off Route 28. After you park you'll take a quick walk going north, where you'll soon see a sign for the trailhead on the other side of the road. This hike will definitely be an adventure, taking you three miles to reach the waterfall that you'll instantly fall in love with.
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3. Next you'll take a quick half-hour drive over to the town of Long Lake where you'll find one of New York's many Buttermilk Falls.
If you're familiar with our state then you know that somehow there have managed to be quite a few waterfalls going by the name of Buttermilk Falls, often making things a bit confusing to outsiders! For today, we're going to talk about the Buttermilk Falls that you'll find up in Long Lake. Just off of North Point Road, this New York falls is about a five-minute walk from where you'll park.
4. Feeling tired after exploring some of our favorite waterfalls? Then grab a bite to eat and book yourself a room at the iconic Adirondack Hotel in Long Lake!
A 10-minute drive from the falls, this hotel has a beautiful waterfront view of Long Lake. Featuring a Victorian dining room that you'll wish you had in your own home, the hotel serves as the perfect place for you to grab something to eat and regain your energy. From the food to the coziness, there's nothing you won't love about staying at the Adirondack Hotel.
5. After fueling up and getting some rest in Long Lake, you'll be off to your next adventure in Elizabethtown to see Split Rock Falls.
An hour-long drive from Long Lake, Elizabethtown in Essex County is just one of our many charming Adirondack towns you'll want to visit. The falls are beautiful to see during any time of year but become most popular during the summer when the location becomes the perfect swimming hole to cool off in. Just off of U.S. 9, Split Rock Falls is a quick walk from where you'll park off of the road. This is one of the prettiest New York waterfalls.
Two insane waterfalls within 10 minutes of each other? It doesn't get any better than this! This location is known for being one of the Adirondack's best natural playgrounds, with the base of this falls in New York being made up of various size boulders. You'll find explorers climbing all over the boulders at the base! The quick hike to get to this waterfall is one that's considered to be easy, with explorers of all ages being found on this particular trail.
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7. Feeling hungry before your next stop? Well, that doesn't mean you have to leave the waterfalls behind at Lisa G's!
Right in Lake Placid just before you reach Main Street, you'll find Lisa G's sitting on Chubb River. During the warmer months, guests can eat outside and enjoy up-close views of the river and cascading falls nearby, creating a relaxing environment. With an amazing menu and friendly staff, you won't regret making the stop at this restaurant.
8. After you finish feasting on delectable dishes at Lisa G's, you'll head to the unforgettable location which is High Falls Gorge.
This 22-acre nature park is one that's simply unbelievable. The outdoor attraction that can be found open for almost the entire year is right in the town of Wilmington. Surrounded by New York's tallest mountains, you'll be able to see the stunning Ausable River and four major waterfalls. The trails here consist of breathtaking walkways that will put your fear of heights to the test, with even one part of the boardwalk containing a see-through bottom! High Falls Gorge may just be heaven on earth!
9. Once again you may find yourself in need of food and a place to sleep after seeing so many of our breathtaking waterfalls. You'll want to head on over to The Hungry Trout Resort.
Also right in the town of Wilmington just two miles away from High Falls Gorge is The Hungry Trout Resort. The one-of-a-kind resort gives guests access to views of Whiteface Mountain, the opportunity to go trout fishing in the Ausable River, and also a chance to hike to Flume Falls. The resort features a wonderful restaurant and pub, where you'll be able to enjoy menus that will knock your socks off. To book your stay and to find out more about this unbelievable resort, visit the official website.
So, what do you think about this list of New York waterfalls? Share with us your thoughts in the comments section! Also, if you have any more day trips in New York or fun things to do that you think we should know about, make sure to let us know.
The Adirondacks is the largest state park in the United States. Easy to spend an entire weekend here, this is one of the most exciting things to do in New York outdoors.
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New York also has its own Gravity Hill which is a weird phenomenon that everyone should experience.
What underrated places in New York should I visit?
Underrated places make for some of the best day trips in New York. In fact, we have 13 underrated places in New York that are perfect for any out-of-towner. Try visiting the Storm King Art Center, which is 500 acres of space filled with incredible sculptures. Or how about Stonecrop Gardens in Cold Spring? This 15-acre natural gem is a peaceful way to enjoy New York’s great outdoors.
