Full of adventure and scenic beauty, those who take the time to explore the Empire State will find that there are actually thousands of waterfalls here. Hiding in nearly every region of our state, there’s something particularly peaceful and exciting about discovering our Adirondack waterfalls. If you’re wondering, “where are the best waterfalls near me?” you’ve found the right list! Within the epic Adirondack Park there are hundreds of flowing falls but according to helpful sites like Dig The Falls there are at least 87 specific destinations inside of Essex County where you can find one, if not multiple waterfalls.

Your latest reason to head up north, below we’ve highlighted some of the most amazing waterfalls on this long list that are worth acknowledging. A mixture of easy falls that you can view and get to from right off of the road and full-day adventurous hikes that will take you out into the serene forest, this list will have you feeling eager to explore Essex County.

1. Ausable Chasm - Keeseville
Ausable Chasm, NY 12911, USA
Simcha Leiner/Flickr
America's oldest natural attraction, Ausable Chasm is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks. Full of history and natural wonders, you'll get to discover beautiful waterfalls along the Ausable River at this adventurous park. Read more about Ausable Chasm.
2. Beaver Meadow Falls - St. Huberts
Beaver Meadow Falls, Keene Valley, NY 12943, USA
Layal Marie-Anne/AllTrails
At 60 feet in height, Beaver Meadow Falls is part of a beautiful yet slightly difficult hike that you'll never forget. Accessible from the St. Huberts parking lot and trailhead right off of Route 73, the waterfall is generally visited by those who are on their way to see Rainbow Falls - one of the tallest waterfalls in the Adirondack Park. Learn more about Beaver Meadow Falls.
3. Blue Ridge Falls - North Hudson
Blue Ridge Falls, North Hudson, NY 12855, USA
Roy Saplin/Flickr
Right across the road from Blue Ridge Falls Campsites in the town of North Hudson, Blue Ridge Falls is a favorite spot to visit for its easy accessibility. From the parking lot right off the road you'll be able to view the falls, making it a great place to check out if you're in the area but don't have a ton of time to do some exploring. Read more about Blue Ridge Falls.
4. Bushnell Falls - Keene Valley
Bushnell Falls, Keene, NY 12943, USA
Allan Beaufour/Flickr
A beautiful hike that's popular to enjoy during the summer, Bushnell Falls is a 20-foot tall waterfall right in Keene Valley. Not far from John's Brook Lodge, the waterfall beautifully flows over bedrock out in the gorgeous Adirondack forest. A roughly 5-mile long hike, the trail will bring you right to the base of the falls. Learn more about Bushnell Falls.

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5. Flume Falls - Wilmington
Flume Falls, 5257 NY-86 Scenic, Wilmington, NY 12997, USA
James St. John/Flickr
Along the West Branch of the Ausable River in Wilmington, you can discover the beautiful cascading waterfalls just off of Route 86. In town you'll find the The Hungry Trout, it's just past the restaurant that you'll find the trailhead for the Flume Trail System. The trail system features ten miles of trails that will give you amazing views of the river and waterfalls. Read more about Flume Falls.
6. Jay Falls - Jay
49 Covered Bridge Ln, Jay, NY 12941
Michael Kreho/Flickr
A family favorite spot to visit and cool off at during our hot and sunny months, the falls in the charming Adirondack town of Jay are easy to find and amazing to experience. The small town has a covered bridge not far from Route 9, with beautiful smaller sized waterfalls flowing along the Ausable River. Learn more about Jay Falls.
7. Roaring Brook Falls - Keene Valley
Roaring Brook Falls Trail, Keene, NY 12943, USA
kezee/Flickr
One of many endless natural wonders you can get to off of Route 73, Roaring Brook Falls is an easy hike to enjoy. The trail will take you to the base of the falls, where you'll get to see the breathtaking water flowing through Adirondack bedrock. Towering tall above you with tons of large boulders at the base of the falls, you'll want to be extra safe exploring this scenic area. Read more about Roaring Brook Falls.
8. Split Rock Falls - Elizabethtown
Split Rock Falls, Elizabethtown, NY 12964, USA
Roy Saplin/Flickr
Another waterfall that's quite easy to get to, Split Rock Falls is in Elizabethtown just off of Route 9. One of the most beautiful waterfalls that you'll find in the Adirondack Park, Split Rock Falls is a favorite swimming spot to check out. The beautiful clear and vibrant water of the Boquet River makes for the perfect spot to cool off in. Read more about Split Rock Falls.

Tell us in the comments which Essex County waterfalls is your favorite! Believe it or not, this isn’t the only county in our state where you can find hundreds of waterfalls. Head out to the Finger Lakes and read about how There’s A City Of Waterfalls In New York That’s Guaranteed To Steal Your Breath Away!

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Danielle Schwartz | April 25, 2022

What are the most beautiful hikes in New York?

The most beautiful hikes in New York are Devil's Hole Trail and the Constitution Marsh Trail. Devil's Hole Trail is located in Devil's Hole State Park in Niagara Falls. This trail is a great place to see amazing views of the Niagara River. The "Devil's Hole" is actually a whirlpool that will mesmerize you when you down into it. The Constitution Marsh Trail is another gorgeous choice for a hike. It is located in Storm King State Park and is an ideal choice for those who love bird watching. You'll find lots of beautiful bird species, and the lovely songs they sing will fill the air around you. You can also visit the aquarium at the visitors' center to learn more about marine life in the Hudson River.

Are there any swimming holes in New York?

There are several nice swimming holes in New York where you can spend your day, and one of the most popular is Split Rock Falls in Elizabethtown. It's an idyllic picture to behold, with the waterfall flowing right into the small pond where you can enjoy a swim. It's a wonderfully peaceful way to spend your afternoon. This swimming hole certainly will offer you an experience you can’t have in a backyard swimming pool.

What is the best wildflower hike in New York?

The best wildflower hike in New York is the Bear Mountain Loop Trail, a flowery trail located inside Bear Mountain State Park. The trail is 3.8 miles long and takes just over two hours to hike. You can bring your dog along to frolic along the trail in wildflower season and take some pictures that you will definitely want to frame when you get back home.

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