Another view of the falls.
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High Falls Gorge

4.5
·2k reviews·Wilmington, United States

Explore four stunning waterfalls in a 22-acre gorge with accessible trails, glass-bottom platforms, and family fun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Another view of the falls.

High Falls Gorge

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore four stunning waterfalls in a 22-acre gorge with accessible trails, glass-bottom platforms, and family fun.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"A perfect family adventure with accessible trails and stunning waterfalls!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Check their website for potential discounts before purchasing tickets at the counter. Save a little on your adventure!

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Some trails can be muddy, especially after rain. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended for exploring.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Four Cascading Waterfalls

Four Cascading Waterfalls

Throughout the gorge

Witness four stunning waterfalls carving through ancient rock formations. A truly breathtaking natural spectacle.

Glass-Bottom Platforms

Glass-Bottom Platforms

Over the gorge

Experience a thrilling perspective with glass-bottom platforms offering unique views into the deep crevice below.

Accessible Boardwalks and Bridges

Accessible Boardwalks and Bridges

Main trails

Wander through the gorge on well-maintained wooden paths, bridges, and boardwalks, ensuring easy access for all.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Best Views

Visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds. Weekends and peak hours can get busy, making the experience feel tight. Consider checking their website for online ticket discounts before you go.

Accessibility and Trail Options

High Falls Gorge offers a partially accessible pathway, perfect for strollers and wheelchairs. For a more immersive experience, explore the full loop with bridges and boardwalks, but be aware some trails can be muddy after rain.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
After rain
Why
Waterfalls are more powerful
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

See details 👇 Super Quick Waterfall hike for all ages. High Falls Gorge: A Perfect Family Adventure in the High Peaks! 📍High Falls Gorge Wilmgton, New York Accessibility: Easy and partially-accessible access to stunning waterfalls Trail Options: Wheelchair accessible pathway with no stairs Full 0.5 mile loop over footbridges and along the river 🎟️Tickets: $18 for adults / $14 for kids Hours: O...
purplehighways
14.7K likes • 1.2M views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Check their website for potential discounts before purchasing tickets at the counter. Save a little on your adventure! Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Some trails can be muddy, especially after rain. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended for exploring. Reddit

📍 @highfallsgorge | Wilmington, NY High Falls Gorge offers easy and partially- accessible access to view stunning waterfalls in the High Peaks! With a wheelchair accessible pathway with no stairs or the option to complete the full 0.5 mile loop over footbridges and along the river, this is a great exploration option for all levels. Wander through the trails and enjoy the cool mist of the water ru...
adirondackbucketlist
52 likes • 1.5K views
🔐 Bucket List Dream 🔐 🔑Officially Unlocked 🔑 . . High Falls Gorge, NY . . #explore #hike #travel #vacation #ny #lakeplacid #adirondacks #waterfalls #trails #gorge #rapid #bridges #boardwalks
thehappy_hiker_
0 likes • 2.4K views

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning waterfalls and unique perspectives from the glass-bottom platforms. Instagram

👨‍👩‍👧 Engage the Kids

Scavenger hunt sheets are often provided for children, making the exploration more fun and interactive. Reddit

A 22-acre, privately owned nature park. They provide safe trail access for all ages to an otherwise inaccessible area. An easy access 30 minute walk/hike to view four stunning waterfalls cascading over rocks into a deep crevice carved a billion years ago. 📍 High Falls Gorge 🎟 Adult Admission: $14.50 Child Admission: $10.00 Kids 3 & Under Admission FREE 🚗 Parking: Free on-site parking is availa...
withsunshinesol
35.3K likes • 1.3M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Check their website for potential discounts before purchasing tickets at the counter. Save a little on your adventure! Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Some trails can be muddy, especially after rain. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended for exploring. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning waterfalls and unique perspectives from the glass-bottom platforms. Instagram

👨‍👩‍👧 Engage the Kids

Scavenger hunt sheets are often provided for children, making the exploration more fun and interactive. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise High Falls Gorge for its stunning waterfalls, accessible trails, and family-friendly atmosphere, with many highlighting the engaging scavenger hunts for children. While some find it a bit pricey for a short visit, most agree it's a well-maintained and beautiful natural attraction worth experiencing at least once. Occasional mentions of mud on certain trails and parts being under renovation are noted.

"The area features three trails—two nature walks (heads up can be muddy especially after a rain spell) and one that leads through the falls, offering a magnificent view. Although each trail is recommended to take about 30 minutes, we were able to complete most of them well ahead of time.

In terms of difficulty, the falls trail and one of the nature walks were moderately challenging, while the second nature trail proved to be a bit more demanding.

A unique and delightful feature: all the kids in our group received scavenger hunt sheets, which made the experience more engaging for them. They happily walked the entire trail in search of clues—motivated by the promise of a surprise gift at the end!"

Samadrita Choudhary

"You can spend 3-4 hours with your family here. The 3 falls are good experience to watch. The trail on the gorge seemed new, well protected with railings, so its safe for kids as well. The one mile Trail in the Woods is good, can be done with small kids as well. Usually there is some discount if you buy tickets online. So check their website before buying tickets at the Counter."

Varun Manohar

"What a beautiful spot! Wonderful, easy wooden path and stairs provide several stunning waterfall views. Nice hiking paths along the river and through the woods. Great picnic area and wonderful cafe and gift shop with a variety of souvenirs, clothing, etc."

Hermine Basso

What People Like

Beautiful waterfalls
Accessible trails
Family-friendly activities

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Admission price

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

High Falls Gorge is located in Wilmington, New York, a short drive from Lake Placid. You can reach it by car, and there is parking available on-site. Some Reddit users suggest parking further down the road at the Flume trails and walking across to see the falls for a different perspective. Reddit

Public transport options to High Falls Gorge are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Check local transit schedules for the Wilmington area if relying on public transport, though it may not be direct. Reddit

The gorge features a main accessible pathway, boardwalks, bridges, and some nature trails. The main path is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, while other trails offer more rugged terrain. Instagram+1

Yes, High Falls Gorge is situated in the beautiful Adirondack Mountains, close to Whiteface Mountain and Lake Placid, offering numerous hiking, outdoor activities, and scenic drives. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees vary for adults and children. It's recommended to check their official website for the most current pricing and to look for potential online discounts before your visit. InstagramReddit

Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the High Falls Gorge website for their current opening and closing times before planning your visit. Instagram

Yes, tickets can typically be purchased at the counter upon arrival. However, purchasing online in advance might offer discounts and save you time. Reddit

Many visitors find High Falls Gorge to be worth the admission for its unique natural beauty and well-maintained trails, especially for families. Some feel it's a great one-time experience. Reddit

Discounts may be available, particularly if you purchase tickets online through their website. Keep an eye out for special offers or group rates. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

At High Falls Gorge, you can explore four stunning waterfalls, walk on accessible boardwalks and bridges, and enjoy unique views from glass-bottom platforms. There are also nature trails and a picnic area. Instagram+1

Most visitors spend about 30 minutes to an hour exploring the main trails and waterfalls. However, you can easily spend 3-4 hours if you take your time, enjoy the picnic area, or explore all the trails. Reddit

The main gorge trail with boardwalks and bridges is generally easy and partially accessible. Some of the nature walks can be moderately challenging or more demanding, and may be muddy after rain. Reddit

Absolutely! High Falls Gorge is a fantastic family-friendly destination. The accessible trails, engaging scavenger hunts for kids, and beautiful scenery make it a hit with all ages. InstagramReddit

Yes, the main pathway through High Falls Gorge is wheelchair and stroller accessible, featuring no stairs. This makes it a great option for visitors with mobility challenges or families with young children. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The viewpoints overlooking the waterfalls, the glass-bottom platforms for unique perspectives, and the scenic bridges offer excellent photo opportunities. Capture the cascading water and the ancient rock formations. Instagram+1

Yes, photography is generally allowed at High Falls Gorge. Be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment while capturing your shots. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer glow on the waterfalls. Weekdays also offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

High Falls Gorge is an ideal family outing. The accessible main trail is perfect for strollers and little legs, and the scavenger hunt activity keeps kids engaged and excited. You can easily spend a few hours here, enjoying the waterfalls and the picnic area. InstagramReddit

Consider bringing waterproof shoes if it has rained recently, as some paths can get muddy. The park's well-maintained walkways and the thrill of the glass-bottom platforms add to the adventure for children. It's a safe and beautiful place for the whole family to connect with nature.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers or couples, High Falls Gorge offers a peaceful yet engaging experience. The well-maintained trails allow for a leisurely exploration of the four waterfalls at your own pace. The glass-bottom platforms provide a unique thrill and fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram

It's a great spot for a short, scenic walk and a chance to appreciate the ancient geological formations. The informative signs add an educational element, making it more than just a pretty view. It’s a perfect stop for a few hours of natural beauty and reflection.

♿ Visitors with Mobility Concerns

High Falls Gorge is highly recommended for visitors with mobility concerns due to its partially accessible main pathway. This route is wide, smooth, and has no stairs, allowing wheelchair users and those with strollers to comfortably navigate and enjoy the stunning waterfall views. Instagram+1

While some of the more rugged nature trails might be challenging, the core experience of seeing the waterfalls and walking over the gorge is fully accessible. The park's thoughtful design ensures that the natural beauty is available to a wide range of visitors.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Waterfalls and Gorge

High Falls Gorge is a privately owned 22-acre nature park renowned for its four spectacular waterfalls that cascade into a deep crevice carved over a billion years ago. The park offers a unique opportunity to get up close to these natural wonders, which are otherwise inaccessible. Visitors can explore via a network of well-maintained trails, bridges, and boardwalks. Instagram+1

The main gorge trail is designed for accessibility, featuring no stairs and a wheelchair-friendly path, making it suitable for all ages and abilities. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, additional nature trails wind through the woods and along the river, offering different perspectives of the gorge and its surroundings. Some of these trails can be moderately challenging and may become muddy after rainfall. Reddit

A particularly thrilling feature is the presence of glass-bottom platforms, allowing visitors to peer directly down into the gorge, offering a unique and exhilarating view of the water's powerful descent. Informative signs along the paths provide insights into the area's natural history and geology, enriching the visitor experience. Instagram

Accessibility and Family Fun

High Falls Gorge is celebrated for its commitment to accessibility, ensuring that everyone can enjoy its natural beauty. The primary pathway is a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk, making it a perfect destination for families with strollers, individuals using mobility aids, or anyone who prefers an easier walk. This main route provides stunning views of the waterfalls without the need for strenuous climbing. Instagram+1

Beyond the accessible path, the park offers a variety of trails catering to different fitness levels. For families, the experience is often enhanced by interactive elements. Many visitors mention that children receive scavenger hunt sheets, which turns the exploration into a fun game, motivating them to discover clues throughout the gorge and leading to a small reward. This makes High Falls Gorge an engaging outing for younger visitors. Reddit

The park also features a pleasant picnic area, allowing families to extend their visit and enjoy a meal amidst nature. With its combination of natural beauty, accessible infrastructure, and family-friendly activities, High Falls Gorge stands out as a great destination for a memorable day out in the Adirondacks. Reddit

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