High Falls Gorge is a 22-acre, privately owned nature park. Since the1890's, we provided safe trail access for all ages to an otherwise inaccessible narrow granite walled gorge with four spectacular waterfalls. Today sturdy steel bridges, walkways, and groomed walking trails replaced the rugged wood footbridges and beaten paths written about in The Plattsburgh Sentinel, dating back to July 28, 1899. Our rich history and beautiful views make us a true gem of the Adirondacks

Explore High Falls Gorge

Highlights of Your Gorge Experience

Flat paths, handrails, fencing, and seating areas make it a safe place for children and enjoyable for older guests. Get close enough to have the four-beautiful waterfalls mist your face, walk across bridges, walkways, and see-through viewing platforms. Experience the energy of the AuSable River as you walk alongside it. Feel the majestic presence of Whiteface Mountain and the enduring strength of the ancient granite cliffs.

EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME AT HIGH FALLS GORGE

Below are some of the great sights and attractions High Falls Gorge offers:

Stroll in amazement through the Climax Forest: A protected forest area of established American hemlock trees that are hundreds of years old. Untouched by wildfires, logging, and other forces of man, this is one of the few remaining virgin forests in the Adirondacks. You will marvel at the sight of these massive trees.

Witness history at “The Ancient Valley of Foaming Water”: High Falls Gorge is a mesmerizing, deep crevice carved by the AuSable River a billion years ago. Native Americans gave High Falls Gorge the name “The Ancient Valley of Foaming Water” due to the natural foam that develops within the Gorge.

Touch one of the oldest rocks in the world: Our Anorthosite boulder is over 1.5 billion years old. Anorthosite is the base rock for the Adirondacks. It is similar to the rock that was found on the moon.

Admire one of New York’s largest natural potholes: Natural potholes are formed by currents in the river to create a hole in an exposed rock layer. High Falls Gorge has several unique potholes to view along the walk including our Master Pothole which is one of the largest in New York.

In the summer season, operating May through October, you will see the beautiful wildflowers, fall foliage, and lush colors within the Gorge.  Two glass platforms (Summer Season Only) suspend you over the mighty waters of the AuSable River. Enjoy the riverside Woodlands Picnic Area for some respite or refreshment while nature’s beauty surrounds you.

In the winter season, operating November through March, view the spectacular ice formations along the granite cliffs.  For safe walking, we provide traction devices over your footwear. Be sure to dress warmly and in layers to see this spectacular place.  After viewing the waterfalls, and weather permitting, give snowshoeing a try on our separate one-mile, wooded nature trail.