Here’s The Perfect Weekend Itinerary If You Love Exploring New York’s Waterfalls
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? have you found yourself asking, “what are the best waterfalls near me in New York, anyway?!” 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…
With a total driving time of just over four hours, you can view the interactive map on Google here.
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.
To find out more information about this hike, click here.
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.
One of New York's tallest waterfalls 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 of 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.
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, the waterfall 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.
To find out all of the reasons why we love visiting the town of Long Lake and what there is for you to do in this area, click here.
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.
To find out more information about this unbelievable swimming hole and waterfall, click here.
6. Once you're done soaking in the beautiful sight that is Split Rock Falls, you'll take a quick 10-minute drive over to Roaring Brook Falls.
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 the falls 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 the waterfall is one that's considered to be easy, with explorers of all ages be found on this particular trail.
To find out more information about this trail and waterfall, click here.
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.
To find out more about Lisa G's and why we love to dine here, click here.
8. After you finish feasting on delectable dishes at Lisa G's, you'll head to the unforgettable location that 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!
To find out more about what you'll be able to experience at this amazing park, click here.
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, click here.
So, what do you think about this list of New York natural wonders? Did we answer your question “what are the best waterfalls near me in New York?” 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.
Address: Shelving Rock Falls, Fort Ann, NY 12827, USA
Address: OK Slip Falls Trailhead, NY-28, Indian Lake, NY 12842, USA
Address: Buttermilk Falls, Arietta, NY 12847, USA
Address: Adirondack Hotel On Long Lake, 1245 Main St, Long Lake, NY 12847, USA
Address: Split Rock Falls, Elizabethtown, NY 12964, USA
Address: Roaring Brook Falls Trail, Keene, NY 12943, USA
Address: Lisa G's, 6125 Sentinel Rd, Lake Placid, NY 12946, USA
Address: High Falls Gorge, Wilmington, NY 12997, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Waterfalls Near Me In New York
July 16, 2021
Marisa Roman
Does New York have any natural wonders?
There are natural wonders in New York at nearly every turn, as long as you know the right place to look. But if you’re looking for official NY natural wonders, then we have fourteen for you to explore. Start with the magic of the Adirondacks, 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. Or, instead of climbing a mountain, you can dive deep into a cavern when you visit Howe Caverns in New York. This natural wonder takes guests deep into the earth for an underground adventure. Also, if you want to see some of the best natural wonders in New York in one shot, then this road trip is the perfect experience for you.
What are the most unique things to do in New York?
Outside of the natural wonders, what are some other unique things to do in New York that are outside of the box? We always love highlighting those weirdly wonderful day trips in New York – the places that are certainly out-of-the-ordinary for most. For instance, have you ever driven by the Prophet Isaiah’s Second Coming House in Niagara Falls? Not only is it eye-catching, but it also has an interesting history. Meanwhile, the world’s largest kaleidoscope is hiding in the Catskills and it’s as beautiful as you’d expect! Also, many people don’t know that New York has its own Gravity Hill which is a weird phenomenon that you have to experience for yourself.
What underrated places in New York should I visit?
Sure, New York is filled with incredible things to do that are more well-known, touristy spots. But what about those underrated places? They also 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.
Address: Shelving Rock Falls, Fort Ann, NY 12827, USA
Address: OK Slip Falls Trailhead, NY-28, Indian Lake, NY 12842, USA
Address: Buttermilk Falls, Arietta, NY 12847, USA
Address: Adirondack Hotel On Long Lake, 1245 Main St, Long Lake, NY 12847, USA
Address: Split Rock Falls, Elizabethtown, NY 12964, USA
Address: Roaring Brook Falls Trail, Keene, NY 12943, USA
Address: Lisa G's, 6125 Sentinel Rd, Lake Placid, NY 12946, USA
Address: High Falls Gorge, Wilmington, NY 12997, USA
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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
