One of the notable High Falls in northern New York, this particular waterfall is quite remarkable. To reach it, you need to enter through the park store, located at the end of a short access road. The entrance fee is modest: $5 for adults (as of 2024). Although many enthusiasts prefer more rugged, untouched waterfalls, the cost at this privately operated campground is reasonable and worth it. Note that this is a seasonal facility, open only from May 1 to October 15, or later if weather permits.
The trail to the falls is less than 0.2 miles, but the final 350 feet involves descending a staircase leading to the base of the gorge. There are approximately 210 steps, consisting of both wooden and natural stone. The descent is manageable, but the climb back up may be strenuous for those less agile. The convenience of these steps makes the modest admission fee worthwhile, as the hike would be significantly more challenging without them. The waterfall, cascading in four stages over a height of 120 feet, is truly stunning. The most impressive views are from the base, though you can also see it from an upper trail that offers views of the top of the falls. The Chateaugay River flows northward and crosses the New York-Canada border a few miles downstream from this location, eventually emptying into the St. Lawrence River near Montreal. The Chateaugay is relatively small compared to other rivers in northern New York. Its source is a few miles upstream, where various streams feed Upper Chateaugay Lake in neighboring Clinton County. The water then flows through an area known as the Chateaugay Narrows and Lower Chateaugay Lake before officially becoming the Chateaugay River in Franklin County. Generally flowing north from High Falls, the Chateaugay enters Quebec, where it is known as the Châteauguay River. The distance from the source to High Falls is roughly equivalent to the distance from High Falls to the Canadian border. Excluding the Narrows and two lakes, the river extends slightly further in Canada than in the United States. Location ID #LS0030
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