New York
Nature|Waterfalls

The Hike To This Secluded Waterfall Beach In New York Is Positively Amazing

Discover the secluded Lampson Falls in St. Lawrence County, perfect for a summer day trip with hiking, swimming, and scenic views.

Published May 8, 2018

Written by 

Lea Monroe

This year's winter may have overstayed its welcome, but now that spring has finally sprung and the sunshine is beaming down upon us - we're already starting to think about where exactly we can cool off this summer. A great day trip that's worth taking, it's time you start thinking about heading up to St. Lawrence County to uncover a small secluded beach that's tucked away in one of our serene forests.

Up along the Grass River in the small town of Clare, explorers can take a half-mile hike out into the Grass River Wild Forest to discover a secluded little paradise.

alt
Decaseconds/Flickr

An easy hike that everyone of all ages can enjoy, this trail right off of County Road 27 will lead you straight to Lampson Falls.

advertisement
alt
Decaseconds/Flickr

A 40-foot tall waterfall that spans across 100-feet, during the summer you'll find a nice shallow pool of water at the base of the falls that's perfect to swim in.

alt
Amanda Selleck/AllTrails

As you start to hike through the forest you'll begin to hear the roar of the falls from the near distance, quickly inducing excitement to a whole new level.

alt
Decaseconds/Flickr

At the base of Lampson Falls, you'll find a small sandy beach and plenty of shaded picnic areas where you can put all your things for the afternoon.

alt
Amanda H/AllTrails

With soaring views of the river and surrounding forests, you'll love the view from the top of the falls just as much as you do from the beach!

alt
Decaseconds/Flickr

A great alternative to some of New York's other more popular and well-known waterfall swimming spots, Lampson Falls is great to keep in mind when you're thinking about taking a day trip up north to get away from it all. To find out more about the Grass River Wild Forest and the Lampson Falls Trail, click here.

advertisement

Never been up to these neck of the woods before? Then grab directions to Lampson Falls right from Google Maps below!

Have you ever gone swimming at Lampson Falls? If you have, be sure to share your pictures and stories with us in our comments! To discover more amazing waterfall hikes, read about how This Waterfall Staircase Hike May Be The Most Unique Trail In All Of New York.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

Nature|Hiking

The Stunning Top-Secret Natural Spring in New York Nobody’s Ever Heard of

The best hidden waterfall in New York is found in a small Central New York wilderness along a challenging but beautiful trail.

Published Sep 28, 2024

Written by 

Raymond Goldfield

New York's waterfalls and springs are famous around the world - especially when you talk about a certain one up north! But New York is actually a big state, and there are some fascinating spots far off the beaten path that are well-worth exploring. You just might have to put some work into getting there. I was surprised to find the best-hidden waterfall in New York was located near the tiny town of North Creek, in the little-known Siamese Ponds Wilderness. That's where you'll find the Shanty Brook Trail, a 1.3-mile trail rated moderate. While it's a short trail, it does pack some unique challenges into its half-hour hike - but we think it's well worth the challenge.

advertisement
alt
Joe Helt/AllTrails

The Shanty Brook Trail is one of New York's hidden gems, found in a deeply remote area of the state with no major towns around. While it's rated moderate, it will require you to venture off well-maintained trails and into some challenging terrain.

alt
Joe Helt/AllTrails

The most challenging part of this trail comes right at the start, as you'll have to cross the Sacandaga River. This is usually a fairly slow-moving and shallow river, so all you'll need is a good pair of wading boots - but be careful to not take this trail after heavy rain.

alt
Han Ng/AllTrails

From there, it's a quick but challenging hike uphill until you reach the titular Shanty Brook - a twelve-foot waterfall that makes for amazing photo opportunities. The best part is that the challenging approach means you'll likely have this area all to yourself.

alt
Chris Caprood/AllTrails

Although far from New York's tallest waterfall, the Shanty Brook Waterfall is an incredible sight and can be walked right up to. While this isn't a suitable place for swimming, it is a great place to cool off before heading back!

alt
Chris Caprood/AllTrails

There are actually eighteen trails in the immediate area of the wilderness, many moderately challenging and remote, making exploring this area this the perfect day of adventure.

Have you hiked the Shanty Brook Trail to see this magical hidden waterfall in New York? Let us know about your hike in the comments section, and you can visit the AllTrails trail listing for more details and pictures. If you want to know more about the Siamese Ponds Wilderness, check out its page on the NY DEC website. This is the kind of hike AllTrails + was made for - the point-by-point directions are incredibly useful in a remote, fast-paced hike like this. And if you're looking for a memorable stay in the area, this Victorian-style B&B is about an hour away in the Lake George area.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

Nature|Waterfalls

The High Falls Trail Is One Of The Best Waterfall Hikes In New York

Published Jul 6, 2024

Written by 

Courtnie Erickson

New York is home to extraordinary natural features. However, some of my personal favorites are the falls that dot the state. High Falls is one of these gorgeous New York waterfalls. It is lesser-known, quiet, and beautiful. It’s a picture-perfect destination for a day outdoors. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab some water, and get ready to experience one of the best waterfall hikes in New York.

advertisement

Tucked away in the Titusville Mountain State Forest and just a short drive from Owls Head is the trailhead to High Falls. This New York waterfall hike needs to be on your itinerary when you find yourself in the area.

alt
Scott Childs/AllTrails

Keep in mind that a four-wheel-drive vehicle is strongly recommended to reach the trailhead. The trail is located off County Highway 27 and Barnesville Road near Owls Head.

The hike to reach this gorgeous waterfall is approximately 1.6 miles. It is an out-and-back trail with slight elevation gain but it’s considered quite easy. Beginning hikers and even those with little legs can complete this trail.

alt
Zack Taylor/AllTrails

As you trek through the forest, you’ll feel like you are far away from the cares of the world — and you just might be. This is a lesser-known trail and it’s not uncommon to find yourself alone on your journey. Enjoy the solitude of this outdoor destination.

alt
Aaron Watson/AllTrails

While the trail’s distance isn’t long, it sure is beautiful. Stop to admire the rushing streams and the vegetation growing along the path. Just make sure you are respectful of every remarkable creation. Always leave the trail better than when you found it.

alt
Paul Gosh/AllTrails

You will need to watch your feet on portions of this trail. You will trek over wooden bridges and there are some steps you will need to climb.

alt
Aaron Watson/AllTrails

However, every step will be worth it once you reach the waterfall. High Falls may not be the largest waterfall in New York but it is certainly impressive. Give yourself time to sit back and enjoy the sounds of the flowing water and admire the beauty of the area.

advertisement
alt
Jake MacDougal/AllTrails

You may even want to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy your time here — it truly is breathtaking.

alt
Hannah With Marshall/AllTrails

The trek to High Falls should be on your bucket list every season throughout the year. The vibrant fall foliage makes this a stunning masterpiece in the autumn, and in the winter, the frozen falls create the ultimate snowshoeing destination. Keep in mind that the spring months can be muddy so come prepared.

alt
Scott Childs/AllTrails

For more information on High Falls in New York, visit AllTrails. Consider downloading AllTrails+ as well for the ability to download trail maps, to know trail conditions before you go, and more.

Have you ever hiked to High Falls in New York? What are some of your favorite waterfall hikes in New York? Let us know in the comments.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories

Food

The Best Apple Cider Donuts in New Hampshire Come From This Small-Town Orchard

by Beth Price-Williams
on Oct 14
alt
Attractions
Shops & Boutiques

This Completely Free Bookstore in Connecticut Is a Booklover’s Dream

by Kim Falchek
on Oct 14
The interior of Volume Two: A Never Ending Books Collective in New Haven, CT. There are many shelves of books and a small table with a puzzle on it.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The Man-Made Wonder in New Jersey Is the Definition of a Hidden Gem

by Raymond Goldfield
on Oct 14
alt
State Pride
History

The Most Iconic View in New Hampshire Is Also a Stunning Slice of History

by Kim Falchek
on Oct 14
View of mountain at the Old Man of the Mountain Profiler Plaza at NH's Franconia Notch State Park. A sign in front of the mountain reads " Old Man Of The Mountain Profiler Plaza."
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

The Audubon Center in New Jersey Where You’ll See Dozens of Bird Species in a Single Afternoon

by Raymond Goldfield
on Oct 12
alt