Roaring Brook Falls

Roaring Brook Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the Adirondacks due to its size and ease of access. Its upper reaches can even be seen in passing from the road. For those taking the time to actually stop and visit the falls, it is well worth the trip to both the bottom and the top. The trail to the base of the falls is flat, wide, and only 0.3 miles. To reach it, bear right at the fork in the trail. Depending on the flow of the river, more adventurous hikers can scramble partway up the face of the falls and look directly up at the narrow band of water cascading down the mountainside. In early spring, or after heavy rains, the stream bed will be full and impassable. It's best to view the falls from downstream during these times. To reach the top of the falls, hikers will bear left at the fork, where the trail begins climbing steeply. This trail lasts 0.5 miles, but it eases in pitch at the 0.25 mile mark. At the top, bear to the right toward a small clearing where the ground is level. This is a primitive camping area, and the stream bed leading to the falls is just beyond. Only approach the edge of the falls when the river is very low. Even shallow water can create a significant hazard, especially when coupled with the slippery rocks above the falls. When flows allow, the views both down the face of the falls and out into the surrounding high peaks are excellent. Backtracking up the stream bed a short way will reveal a swimming hole narrow enough to jump across. It's only about waist deep, but it provides a welcome respite after a steep climb on a hot day.