© 2000 Jon Binder
Overview
Ratings (ratings explained)
Power: 4/10
Beauty: 6/10
Ease of Access: 7/10
Rocky Falls is a very small falls, more of a series of little cascades, reachable by an easy 2.3 mile (4.6 mile round trip) hike.
Photos
Directions
Rocky Falls is located in the High Peaks of the Adirondacks. The beginning of the Indian Pass Trail, which provides access to Rocky Falls, is located at the Adirondak Loj. The Loj is just south of the village of Lake Placid.
From the intersection of NYS routes 73 and 86 in Lake Placid, travel south on route 73 for about 3 miles. On your right will be Adirondak Loj Road and a beautiful view of the High Peaks over a meadow. There is also a High Peaks Trailhead sign at this point, which is about 26 miles from I-87 exit 30. Follow the Adirondak Loj road south to its end, in about five miles. Park in the main lot (there is a fee) and follow the signs to the Indian Pass Trail.
From Heart Lake, the trail leads through the woods on a completely level trail for a little over 2 miles. A side trail turns to the right and brings you the rest of the distance towards Rocky Falls. The walk is very easy, and it should take no more than 45 minutes to reach the falls.
Description
Rocky Falls is barely big enough to even have a name. The largest drop single drop is no more than 10 feet high, and is really just a series of cascades. However, the stream and its setting provide a very pleasant and beautiful scene, despite the fact that it lacks the drama of a bigger falls.
Actually, Rocky Falls seems more attractive as a swimming hole than a falls. There are one or two exquisite little pools that would make for a great place for a dip, and some great rocks that would probably make wonderful places to sit and enjoy the feeling of the moving water. Whether you are going for a swim or just for the beauty, Rocky Falls is a worthwhile destination despite its smallness, especially because it is such an easy little hike. It really does make a pleasant, short trip from Heart Lake.
<< Back to List of New York Waterfalls
Page Last Revised: February 22, 2002
