High Falls Gorge is a gem of the Adirondacks
Waterfalls are a magnet for me. No matter where I am in the world, I seek them out. Tall and thundering, small and trickling – I like them all. Their sights and sounds are soothing to me and help me relax and de-stress. There’s actually proof to this phenomenon, as scientific studies have shown that the sound of running water can contribute to an overall sense of well-being.
On a recent trip to Lake Placid, NY, I made a beeline for nearby High Falls Gorge to enjoy some of Mother Nature’s therapeutic effects. This 22-acre, privately owned park has been operating since the 1890s, providing safe trail access to an otherwise inaccessible, narrow, granite walled gorge with dramatic waterfalls – four in all with the tallest being 35 feet.
Cross bridges for spectacular views
Au Sable River
The Gorge is a deep crevice carved by the Au Sable River a billion years ago. “Au sable” in French means “of the sand.” When Samuel de Champlain explored the region in 1609, he chose that as the river’s name. The sands in question were in the mouth of the river, where it flows into Lake Champlain.
Native Americans gave the gorge the name “The Ancient Valley of Foaming Water” due to the natural foam that develops within the Gorge. The rocks that comprise this wonder are actually the same rocks that were found on the moon. Called anorthosite, they were formed fifteen miles below the surface, but over the years, they have been pushed up to the surface.
A quarter-mile round trip path brings you to the center of the waterfalls, while a half-mile round trip route brings you over steel bridges and walkways for a close-up view of these picturesque formations. You’ll be able to feel the mist of the falls along with the powerful energy of the river, while being in awe of the enduring strength of the ancient granite cliffs. All this amid the presence of stalwart Whiteface Mountain looming over the landscape.
The gorge is also home to a number of natural, unique potholes, which are formed by currents in the river to create a hole in an exposed rock layer. Master Pothole has the distinction of being one of the largest in New York State.
In addition to the bridges and walkways along the banks of the river and gorge, there’s a separate one-mile loop nature trail that leads you through some of the surrounding forest. The route climbs 300 vertical feet and is not on a boardwalk. It’s worth a stroll, as there are numerous hemlock trees on the property. And if you know anything about hemlocks, then you can appreciate the fact that these ancient beauties can live to be over 100 years old.
Use the set of stairs to reach various viewpoints
Feel the thunderous power!
High Falls Gorge is open year-round, so even when there’s snow on the ground, you can visit the place. I hear the ice formations are spectacular. Complimentary Yaktrax traction devices that slip on over your shoes are provided for optimal safety. If you opt to do the nature trail, however, you’ll need snowshoes, which can be rented from the facility. And on weekends and holidays during the winter, there’s even a campfire going with marshmallows to roast. Sounds like the quintessential Currier and Ives scene!
After you’ve partaken of all that the gorge has to offer, check out the gift shop. I’m not usually into gift shops, but this one has items that reflect the nature of the region with locally made souvenirs, clothes and gear for the outdoors and more. There’s also a café onsite, currently open on weekends only.
I chose to satisfy my hunger pangs at nearby Twisted Raven. Featuring craft beer, burgers, wraps, wings, BBQ and more, this fun joint is a bar and restaurant that both locals and visitors to the area frequent. You’ll find the staff friendly and efficient, the food tasty, and the ambiance upbeat and casual. Live music nights and special events are also on tap.
If time permits, Whiteface Mountain is another attraction to explore. Just twenty minutes from the High Falls Gorge, this 4,867 foot peak is a four-season attraction. In summer and early fall, take the Cloudsplitter Gondola to the top for panoramic vistas of Lake Placid, Lake Placid Village and Lake Champlain. Or you can drive up the mountain along scenic Whiteface Memorial Highway, then ride an elevator the final 276 feet to the summit.
Lunch at the Twisted Raven
If you’re in optimum shape, you can hike the strenuous 9.5 mile out-and-back trail for a memorable accomplishment. And if that’s not your thing, don’t despair, as there are trails galore taking you through verdant woods, along rivers and to waterfalls.
Come winter, skiers will rejoice. Whiteface boasts the greatest vertical of any lift-serviced mountain in the Northeast. It offers mile after mile of incredible runs, less time spent in lifts and less crowds. Novice and expert skiers and snowboarders have their choice from the wealth of trails available in this adventure playground.
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