Seeing frozen waterfalls in New York is something we always look forward to as it gives us a new look at familiar places. Unfortunately, during the wintertime, you’ll frequently find that many of the waterfalls that we enjoy visiting can become quite dangerous to explore. But there is one frozen waterfall hike in New York that you can do safely. High Falls Gorge in Wilmington gives you access to a small slice of the beautiful frozen Adirondacks.

Just 15 minutes north of Lake Placid, the small town of Wilmington features a privately owned park that will blow you away.
High Falls Gorge/Facebook
A little yellow building that's tucked away off of NY-86, High Falls Gorge sits beautifully along the Ausable River.
High Falls Gorge/Facebook
Taking you to a unique little slice of the Adirondack Mountains, during the winter, you can bring (or rent) your own snowshoes and go snowshoeing in High Falls Gorge through the serene woods.
High Falls Gorge/Facebook
We got a good laugh at this snow-covered sign that warned visitors to not to wear flip-flops or sandals.
Rachel Raimondi/OnlyInYourState
Obviously it's also a great spot to visit in the warmer months, too.
Featuring several different trails, you'll find plenty of Adirondack chairs waiting for you and scenic lookout points where you can enjoy views of the mountains and the river while you're doing this frozen waterfall hike in New York.
High Falls Gorge/Facebook
But it's High Fall Gorge's half-mile-long Waterfall Trail loop that truly attracts everyone here.
High Falls Gorge/Facebook

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Made up of one-of-a-kind walkways and staircases that'll leave you in awe, you won't believe how unique of a view you'll have of this one area of the Ausable River. Not to mention the frozen waterfalls in New York.
High Falls Gorge/Facebook
As you make your way along the suspended trail, you'll find that certain areas of the walkway even have see-through floors that allow you to see what's underneath you.
High Falls Gorge/Facebook
With four major frozen waterfalls in New York to see along this part of the river, it's often hard to believe that this magical winter wonderland is even real.
High Falls Gorge/Facebook
The February day that we visited wasn't crowded at all.
Rachel Raimondi/OnlyInYourState
We were happy to be able to take in the frozen waterfalls on our own time, which was about an hour or so.
Rachel Raimondi/OnlyInYourState
Of course you realize how cold it can get in the Adirondack region, but seeing all of this frozen beauty really puts it in perspective.
Rachel Raimondi/OnlyInYourState
Just one of many places that we love to visit in the Adirondack Mountains during the wintertime, enter a world full of frozen waterfalls and snow at High Falls Gorge this winter.
High Falls Gorge/Facebook
Find out more at the website for High Falls Gorge.

Have you ever ever explored the High Falls Gorge frozen wonderland? Tell us in the comments!

Looking for more places to explore in the Empire State? Check out what AllTrails has!

For more winter adventures, read about this rooftop bar in New York.

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More to Explore

Winter In New York

Rachel Raimondi | October 13, 2023

Where can I go skiing in New York?

Loved this frozen waterfall hike in New York and looking for more winter fun? With over 70 inches of snow falling every winter in more than 50 percent of the state, there are plenty of places to go skiing in New York:

Whiteface Mountain: This ski resort in Wilmington has a 3,400-foot vertical drop. While many of the 96 trails are for intermediate and advanced skiers, there are several beginner trails as well. There are also three terrain parks and a half pipe.

Windham Mountain: This mountain is located in the Catskills region. There are 54 trails throughout for those who are very experienced and those who are not so experienced. You will also find six terrain parks here and you can even ski at night!

What are the best ice skating rinks in New York?

Bundle up and lace up your skates for these ice skating rinks in New York:

Bear Mountain Ice Rink: This outdoor rink is located at the 5,205-acre Bear Mountain State Park in Rockland and Orange Counties. After you have had your fill on the ice, check out some of the hiking trails.

Clinton Square Rink: Located in Syracuse, this outdoor rink is not only a great spot for getting on the ice, but you can also get some supreme views of the downtown buildings and scenery.

Where can I see the best light displays in New York?

I loved High Falls Gorge! And a perfect addition to that trip would be heading out to see some of these light displays in New York:

Festival of Lights: This event is held in Buffalo. Here, you have the choice of driving or walking through the area. Consider trying out both. You can also grab some food and visit with Santa.

ROC Lights: You’ll find this light show at the Victor Hills Golf Club. There are more than 20 light displays to see throughout the course’s paths and hills that wind in and around the gorgeous woods.

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High Falls Gorge, 4761 NY-86, Wilmington, NY 12997, USA