6 Peaceful Waterfall Hideaways in the Adirondacks You’ll Love

The Adirondacks in upstate New York cover more than six million acres, but some of its most soothing spots are tucked away along streams and forest trails. Waterfalls here aren’t always massive, but they create quiet corners where the sound of rushing water sets the pace. Over the years, I’ve come across a handful of retreats in New York’s Adirondack Mountains that feel worth the detour.

1. Ausable Chasm

If there’s one place in New York State that always leaves me wide-eyed, it’s Ausable Chasm. Locals call it the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks,” but its waterfalls feel much more intimate than its nickname suggests. The thunder of the main falls greets you near the visitor center, creating a genuine sense of arrival.

What I enjoy most are the quieter trails that slip away from the crowds. Walk along the rim and you’ll catch glimpses of sandstone walls and swirling water below, all framed by towering pines. Those willing to paddle the river get rewarded with up-close views of smaller falls and hidden grottos, far from the chatter of tour groups.

Ausable Chasm has been drawing visitors since the 19th century, yet there are still pockets where you can sit and listen to nothing but the rush of water and wind. Several interpretive signs share stories of the geology and history of the gorge. Whether you explore by foot or by water, you’ll find something to remember at every turn.

2. Buttermilk Falls (near Long Lake)

Ask anyone from Long Lake about a favorite place to unwind, and Buttermilk Falls comes up almost every time. The short walk from the parking lot makes it feel accessible, but the sound of the water and the dappled light through the trees gives it a sense of escape. I’ve spent hours here, sandwich in hand, watching kids skip stones and explore the pools formed by the tumbling water.

You don’t need hiking boots or a detailed map to enjoy this spot, just a little time and maybe a snack to share. The falls spill over broad ledges, with water spreading out in thin sheets that shimmer in the sun. It’s not unusual to see families spread out along the rocks, books open and shoes off.

Despite its popularity, Buttermilk Falls manages to hold on to its relaxed pace. Early mornings and weekdays tend to be quieter, if you’re after solitude. It’s a reminder that you don’t have to travel far from the main road to find your own peaceful corner in the Adirondacks.

3. Split Rock Falls (Elizabethtown area)

Sometimes, the best stops are the ones you can almost miss if you blink while driving. Split Rock Falls sits just off Route 9, its sound and mist hinting at what’s hidden beyond the trees. One morning last spring, I arrived before sunrise and found the falls all to myself, with only the birds for company.

The water here splits and tumbles in stages, creating a series of clear pools that reflect the surrounding woods. Each tier brings a different mood, some lively, others almost meditative. It’s easy to see why photographers favor this spot, especially when the first light hits the water and wakes up the forest.

Accessibility makes Split Rock Falls a favorite for a quick detour, but lingering pays off. If you’re willing to explore upstream or downstream, you’ll find smaller cascades, mossy rocks, and corners perfect for quiet reflection. Just remember: the rocks can be slick, so keep your footing sure.

4. Shelving Rock Falls (Lake George)

Finding Shelving Rock Falls feels like discovering a secret path in a favorite childhood story. The hike itself is gentle, weaving through a mix of pine and hardwoods. I always notice the sound of water long before I see the falls themselves, a soft, inviting rush that builds as you get closer.

When the trail opens up, you’re rewarded with water flowing over a staircase of stone shelves, surrounded by shaded glen. It’s easy to settle in for a snack or a photo before continuing on toward Lake George. The option to pair a waterfall visit with a swim in the lake makes this spot special, especially in warmer months.

The falls also attract hikers in all seasons. On quieter days, you might catch a glimpse of deer passing through the trees or spot wildflowers along the trail. The combination of forest, water, and lake views means every trip feels just a little bit different.

5. Beaver Meadow Falls (near Keene Valley)

Some places surprise you by feeling hidden, even when they aren’t far from popular trails. Beaver Meadow Falls is a perfect example. Tucked away near Keene Valley, this waterfall fans out in a dramatic sheet across a wide rock face, with moss and ferns softening every edge.

The walk in is peaceful, with fewer hikers than you’ll find at more famous nearby spots. When I first visited, I was struck by how the sound of the falls seemed to hush the whole valley. It’s not a place for rushing; the setting invites you to sit, breathe, and let the mist cool your face.

A quirky detail: the rocks around the base are often covered in vibrant green moss, which glows after a rainstorm. If you’re looking for a place to pause and recharge away from the crowds, Beaver Meadow Falls delivers. Just be ready for a few muddy patches along the way.

6. High Falls Gorge (Wilmington)

High Falls Gorge is the spot I recommend to friends who want the drama of waterfalls but prefer an easy stroll over a rugged hike. Privately run but open to the public, the gorge feels both accessible and wild, thanks to well-kept boardwalks and close-up views of four distinct waterfalls.

The short loop brings you face to face with tumbling water, mist on your cheeks, and the roar echoing off the stone walls. I especially love visiting during fall, when the foliage turns the whole area gold and red. On a recent visit, I watched kids counting rainbows in the spray as adults lingered on the bridges, taking in the scene.

Signs along the path share the geology and history of the gorge, making it as educational as it is beautiful. Whether you have an hour or an afternoon, High Falls Gorge feels like a complete sensory experience. Just don’t forget your camera, the light changes quickly here.