18 Breathtaking Waterfalls in the Adirondack Mountains You Can’t Miss

Discover 18 breathtaking Adirondack Mountains falls. From hidden gems to famous cascades, explore scenic falls perfect for hiking and adventure.

Introduction

There’s something magical about waterfalls. The sound of rushing water echoing through the trees, the cool mist touching your face, and the sight of nature’s raw power leave you speechless. In the Adirondack Mountains of New York, waterfalls aren’t just scenic spots—they’re destinations where hikers, families, and travelers create unforgettable memories.

Imagine standing by a roaring cascade after a long hike, feeling both exhausted and alive. Couples pause to take photos, kids laugh as they dip their toes in shallow pools, and solo adventurers find peace in the rhythm of falling water. This is what makes Adirondack waterfalls so special—they connect people to nature in a deeply personal way.

In this guide, we’ll explore 18 stunning Adirondack waterfalls, each with its own beauty, story, and adventure.

Planning Your Adirondack Waterfall Adventure

Exploring the Adirondack Mountains falls is not something you just stumble into. With their vast forest preserve (over six million acres) and a network of rivers, trails, and hidden gorges, planning is key if you want to enjoy your trip safely and fully. Here’s how to prepare.

Best Time of Year to Visit Adirondack Falls

The beauty of these waterfalls shifts with the seasons.

• Spring (April–June): Melting snow and spring rains create roaring torrents. Trails can be muddy, but if you want the most powerful displays, this is the time. High Falls Gorge and Roaring Brook Falls are especially dramatic.
• Summer (July–August): Easier access, warm weather, and family-friendly conditions. Many falls (like Buttermilk Falls) are popular for picnics and wading. Expect more crowds near easily accessible spots.
• Fall (September–October): Pair golden leaves with sparkling cascades. This is prime photography season, with fewer bugs and cooler hiking weather. Imagine Rainbow Falls surrounded by fiery maples.
• Winter (December–March): A quieter, magical time. Falls like OK Slip freeze into towering curtains of ice. Snowshoes and microspikes are essential, and trails are less crowded.

If you want fewer people, aim for weekdays in late spring or early fall.

Tips for Exploring Safely and Responsibly

Waterfalls are beautiful, but they demand respect. Every year, visitors underestimate slick rocks or swift currents. A few safety rules can prevent trips from going wrong:

• Stay on marked trails. Shortcuts erode fragile habitats and can lead to injuries.
• Wear sturdy shoes. Flip-flops and wet rocks don’t mix. Waterproof hiking boots with good grip are best.
• Keep your distance. It’s tempting to climb near edges, but one slip can be fatal.
• Bring layers. Weather in the Adirondacks changes quickly — a sunny morning can turn into a stormy afternoon.
• Carry water and snacks. Even short hikes can feel longer than expected.

Families with kids should focus on accessible falls like Shelving Rock or Buttermilk Falls. Adventurers craving challenge can head for remote hikes like T Lake Falls.

How to Get Around: Hiking Trails, Roads, and Guided Tours

The Adirondacks are huge — larger than Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Glacier, and the Great Smoky Mountains combined. So how do you get around?

• By Car: Most waterfalls are best reached by driving to trailheads or roadside pull-offs. A detailed map or GPS app like AllTrails is helpful.
• On Foot: Hiking ranges from a five-minute stroll (Cascade Falls) to multi-hour treks (Hanging Spear Falls). Always check the mileage and difficulty.
• Guided Tours: If you’d rather not navigate alone, some outfitters in Lake Placid and Keene Valley offer waterfall tours that combine local history with safe routes.

If you plan smart, you can see several falls in a day — for example, combining Split Rock Falls, Beaver Meadow Falls, and Rainbow Falls in the Keene Valley area.

18 Stunning Adirondack Waterfalls to Visit This Year

Imagine standing at the base of a waterfall deep in the Adirondacks, mist cool on your face, surrounded by towering hardwoods blazing gold and red. The river roars, birds call, and every drop of water seems to echo through the forest. Adirondack Mountain Falls are more than just sights—they’re experiences. In this post, I’m going to take you through 18 of the most stunning waterfalls in the Adirondacks, each with its own magic—perfect for hikers, photographers, or anyone who just wants to reconnect with nature.

1. High Falls Gorge

High Falls Gorge, near Lake Placid, is one of the most popular waterfalls in the Adirondacks. A series of four waterfalls carved into ancient rock, this natural wonder is easy to access with safe walkways and bridges. Visitors often describe the gorge as both powerful and calming, with every viewpoint offering a new perspective of rushing water.

Families especially love High Falls Gorge because it’s not just a hike but an experience. You’ll find educational signs, photo spots, and even glass-floor walkways where you can peer down at the swirling river beneath your feet. It’s a great place for people who want adventure without the challenge of a difficult trail.

2. OK Slip Falls

OK Slip Falls is often called one of the tallest and most spectacular waterfalls in the Adirondacks, plunging more than 200 feet. Getting there requires a moderate hike of about 3 miles, but the payoff is worth every step. When you arrive at the overlook, the waterfall crashes down into a hidden gorge, surrounded by endless green forest.

Many hikers describe their first view of OK Slip Falls as breathtaking. On a sunny day, rainbows appear in the mist, creating a picture-perfect scene. It’s a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers who enjoy combining adventure with the reward of a truly stunning view.

3. Auger Falls

Auger Falls, located near Wells, New York, is known for its dramatic drop along the Sacandaga River. The trail is short and relatively easy, making it a great stop for families or travelers who want to experience a waterfall without a long hike.

The falls cascade through a rocky gorge, creating a roaring sound that echoes through the forest. Many visitors pack a picnic to enjoy near the water. The combination of accessibility and natural beauty makes Auger Falls one of the most loved stops in the southern Adirondacks.

4. Shelving Rock Falls

Shelving Rock Falls is a favorite for those exploring Lake George. The 50-foot cascade is accessible by an easy hike, and along the way you’ll pass beautiful streams and shaded forest paths. The falls flow into Lake George, creating a picture-perfect spot where hikers often stop for a swim.

Many families come here during the summer, turning the hike into a full-day outing with swimming, fishing, and relaxing by the lake. The waterfall itself feels tucked away and private, giving it the charm of a hidden gem even though it’s a popular spot.

5. Buttermilk Falls

Buttermilk Falls in the Raquette Lake area is one of the most visited waterfalls in the Adirondacks. It’s a wide, powerful cascade with plenty of open rock surfaces, making it easy to explore up close. The falls are especially popular in the summer, when families gather to picnic and kids splash around in the shallows.

Although swimming near the falls is not recommended due to strong currents, the surrounding area is ideal for relaxing and enjoying the view. Buttermilk Falls is also a great stop for road-trippers since it’s just a short walk from the parking area.

6. Rainbow Falls at Ausable Chasm

Rainbow Falls is one of the most photographed waterfalls in the Adirondacks. Located at Ausable Chasm, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks,” the waterfall lives up to its name with colorful rainbows forming in the mist on sunny days.

Visitors can enjoy the falls from multiple viewpoints, including a bridge overlooking the cascade. Since Ausable Chasm is a full attraction with trails, rafting, and adventure courses, Rainbow Falls is often the highlight of a much bigger adventure.

7. Roaring Brook Falls

Roaring Brook Falls near St. Huberts is one of the tallest roadside waterfalls in the Adirondacks. You can see it right from Route 73, but a short hike brings you closer for better views. The water drops more than 300 feet in a dramatic plunge down a rocky cliff.

This waterfall is especially impressive in spring when snowmelt swells the brook. Many hikers stop here either before or after exploring nearby trails like Giant Mountain, making it a convenient and rewarding detour.

8. Beaver Meadow Falls

Beaver Meadow Falls is a graceful 60-foot waterfall that looks almost like a wedding veil as it spreads across the rocks. It’s located along the popular hike to Gothics Mountain in the High Peaks region. The waterfall feels peaceful compared to the thunderous roar of others in the Adirondacks.

Hikers often pause here to rest and take photos, with the sound of the falls creating a calming backdrop. It’s one of those places where you can feel completely immersed in nature, surrounded by trees and water.

9. Split Rock Falls

Split Rock Falls is one of the easiest waterfalls to visit in the Adirondacks. Located near Elizabethtown, the falls are visible just a short walk from the road. The cascade splits into multiple streams over large rocks, creating natural swimming holes that are especially popular in summer.

Locals often bring friends here for a quick dip on hot days. It’s the kind of spot where you see people sunbathing on the rocks, kids splashing in the pools, and travelers snapping photos before continuing their road trip.

10. Cascade Falls

Cascade Falls is tucked into the Keene Valley area, not far from the trailheads to Cascade and Porter Mountains. While many hikers rush past on their way to climb peaks, those who stop are rewarded with a picturesque waterfall framed by mossy rocks.

The falls are a great reminder that beauty in the Adirondacks isn’t just at the summits. Some hikers even say the quiet pause at Cascade Falls is the most memorable part of their day.

11. T Lake Falls

T Lake Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in New York, dropping over 600 feet. Getting there is no easy task—it requires a challenging hike that’s best suited for experienced adventurers. But for those who make it, the reward is unforgettable.

Few people see T Lake Falls compared to other Adirondack waterfalls, which makes it feel untouched and wild. The sense of accomplishment from reaching this hidden giant is just as powerful as the waterfall itself.

12. Jay Falls

Jay Falls on the Ausable River is a favorite for both locals and visitors. The series of small cascades are easily accessible from the town of Jay, making it a convenient stop. The falls are not towering, but they create beautiful pools and a peaceful riverside setting.

During summer, families often gather here to swim, fish, or enjoy a picnic. It’s one of those community spots that blends natural beauty with everyday life, showing how waterfalls are part of Adirondack culture.

13. Wanakena Falls

Wanakena Falls, located on the Oswegatchie River, is a charming set of rapids and cascades near the historic hamlet of Wanakena. The area feels quiet and welcoming, with wooden bridges and old-fashioned charm.

Visitors often stop here while exploring the western Adirondacks. It’s not the tallest or most dramatic waterfall, but it’s the kind of place where you can slow down, listen to the water, and feel like you’ve discovered a hidden corner of the park.

14. Moose River Falls

Moose River Falls near Old Forge is another easy-to-access waterfall that’s perfect for families. The falls spread wide across smooth rocks, with plenty of shallow areas for kids to play safely. The sound of water rushing over the rocks creates a relaxing atmosphere.

Many people stop here as part of a day trip through the Old Forge area. It’s a perfect mix of accessibility, beauty, and a touch of Adirondack adventure without a strenuous hike.

15. OK Slip Upper Cascades

Beyond the main OK Slip Falls, there are smaller upper cascades that are just as beautiful. These hidden gems are often overlooked, but hikers who take the time to explore are rewarded with tranquil pools and delicate waterfalls.

The upper cascades offer a quieter, more private experience compared to the dramatic main drop. It’s a place where you can sit by the water, enjoy the sound of rushing streams, and feel completely at peace.

16. Death Brook Falls

Don’t let the name scare you—Death Brook Falls is a peaceful and beautiful 70-foot cascade near Raquette Lake. The hike is short and family-friendly, leading through quiet forest before arriving at the waterfall.

Locals often say the best time to visit is in the spring, when snowmelt gives the falls extra power. It’s also a lovely autumn stop, with colorful foliage framing the cascade.

17. Hanging Spear Falls

Hanging Spear Falls is one of the most remote waterfalls in the Adirondacks, requiring a long hike from Upper Works or Flowed Lands. Dropping nearly 75 feet, the waterfall is surrounded by rugged wilderness.

For experienced hikers, reaching Hanging Spear Falls feels like a true adventure. The sense of solitude and untouched beauty makes it worth the effort, especially for those who enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations.

18. Lampson Falls

Lampson Falls is one of the largest and most accessible waterfalls in the Adirondacks. Located in the Grass River Wild Forest, the falls stretch 100 feet across and drop 40 feet. A short, easy trail leads to a viewing area where you can take in the wide cascade.

The surrounding area includes sandy beaches and shallow pools, making it a popular swimming spot in summer. Lampson Falls is a place where people come to relax, play, and appreciate the beauty of the northern Adirondacks.

Conclusion

The Adirondack Mountains are filled with waterfalls that inspire awe, joy, and peace. From roadside wonders like Roaring Brook Falls to hidden giants like T Lake Falls, each one offers something unique. These 18 waterfalls are more than just sights—they’re experiences that bring people closer to nature and to each other.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker chasing remote cascades or a family looking for an easy day trip, there’s a waterfall here waiting to become part of your story. Pack your hiking shoes, bring your camera, and get ready to discover the magic of Adirondack waterfalls.

FAQs

1. What is the tallest waterfall in the Adirondacks?

T Lake Falls is one of the tallest, dropping over 600 feet, though it requires a tough hike to reach.

2. Are Adirondack waterfalls good for swimming?

Some waterfalls like Split Rock Falls and Lampson Falls have safe swimming areas, but always check conditions first.

3. When is the best time to see Adirondack waterfalls?

Spring is best for powerful flows from snowmelt, while fall adds stunning foliage around the cascades.

4. Do you need a guide to visit Adirondack waterfalls?

Most falls are accessible without a guide, but remote ones like Hanging Spear Falls may require good navigation skills.

5. Are Adirondack waterfalls family-friendly?

Yes, many waterfalls like Buttermilk Falls, Shelving Rock Falls, and Lampson Falls are perfect for families with kids.