Add hiking at Ausable Chasm in Plattsburgh to your summer bucket list

New York State is filled with such incredible natural beauty and thousands of hiking trails to explore them all. And while some get more attention than others, we shouldn’t make the mistake of overlooking the lesser known ones. Niagara Falls, Watkins Glen, Letchworth Falls get a lot of attention. And rightfully so. But there are so many more waterfalls and gorge trails to experience. Plus they each have their own unique history to tell. So this summer, plan a trip just south of Plattsburgh, New York to go hiking at Ausable Chasm.

The History of Ausable Chasm

Like many of the gorges and waterfalls across New York State, Ausable Chasm was formed as a result of melting glaciers at the end of the Ice Age. Estimated to be about 500 million years old, the chasm’s rock walls are roughly 520 feet deep. Visitors can see years of shale and bedrock that was carved out by the Ausable River. And if you look closely, you may be able to spot some very old fossils.

Did you know… The term “Ausable” comes from the French term “Au Sable”, meaning sandy.

Ausable Chasm is actually older than the Adirondack Park! Established in 1870, the chasm was one of the country’s very first tourist attractions. Now, over 150 years later, it remains one of the most popular activities in the Adirondacks.

While you’re in the area, grab a bite to eat these breweries and restaurants in Plattsburgh.

Hiking at Ausable Chasm

Ausable Chasm features 5 miles of hiking trails that follow the pathway of the Ausable River. Open year-round, many sections of the trail hug tight to the chasm walls, with some sections butting up to small waterfalls. Visitors should expect a wide variety of walkways, including natural forest floor, rocky surfaces, metal bridges, and wooden stairways.

Admission to the trails is $19.95 for adults (age 13+), $11.95 for children 5-12, and free for children under 5. Local residents from Clinton, Essex, and Franklin Counties get discounted admission for $12. Basic trail admission is required for guests participating in any of the other activities at the chasm.

Don’t forget to pick up or take a photo of the trail map in the welcome center. Because of the extensiveness of the trails, visitors must plan to arrive 2 hours before the trails close (at 4pm or 5pm depending on the season). The trails at Ausable Chasm are gated, and they are promptly locked at closing time.

Are the trails accessible?

While the cafe, welcome center, gift shop, and museum are ADA-compliant, the natural terrain of the trails make it impossible for wheelchairs or strollers to travel the outdoor trails. Service animals are allowed on the Rainbow Falls and Elephant Head trails only; pets are not allowed on any trails.

What’s the best time of year to visit Ausable Chasm?

While the trails are open year-round, I personally think the best time to visit Ausable Chasm is the summer or fall. The Adirondack region in the summer is truly magical. Although it is also the most crowded. Fall wins for slightly cooler temperatures, smaller crowds, and beautiful foliage.

What can I bring with me to go hiking?

Supportive, closed-toed sneakers or hiking boots are a must. Given the uneven surface of the terrain and the proximity to water making some walkways slippery, don’t overlook good shoes! A light jacket, water bottle, and trail snacks are also recommended.

What can’t I bring with me to go hiking?

Drones are prohibited at Ausable Chasm. As is alcohol. Weapons and firearms of any kind are also prohibited.

Once you’ve experienced the Adirondack Coast’s natural beauty, visit downtown Plattsburgh to discover dozens of murals.

Other Activities at Ausable Chasm

There are many reasons why Ausable Chasm is a summer destination in the Adirondacks. And the hiking trails are just one of those reasons. Ausable Chasm is unique in that it also offers guests more adventurous tour options.

Basic trail admission is required for guests doing any additional activities.

If the 5 miles of trails aren’t quite enough for you, consider upgrading to the river walk or adventure trail. No reservations are required for these trails.

River Walk Tours

Get as close to the water as you can without actually going in with a river walk tour. Beginning with a 200-step descent into the chasm, guests can walk alongside the water’s surface. Here you can get unique views of the waterfalls along the river’s edge and suspension bridges. Helmets are required and provided, but no reservations are required for this trail.

Adventure Trail Tour

Take it up one more notch with an adventure trail tour. Think of a ropes course but with the most incredible backdrop. Guests will be helmeted and harnessed as they make their way through the chasm along the steel cable. No reservations are required for the adventure trail.

Scenic Float Tours

One of the most popular activities at Ausable Chasm is the scenic float tour. Guests can choose between a raft or a tube. Children must be over 54″ tall and weigh over 30 pounds to be able to participate in a river tour. River tours do not need advance reservations.

Rappelling & Rock Climbing

If you’re feeling truly adventurous, consider doing a rappelling or rock climbing tour inside the chasm. These tours last between 1.5 and 2 hours, and are available for both beginners and experienced guests. All necessary equipment is provided along with a professional tour guide and safety demonstration. Guests must meet weight requirements for safety reasons. (A discreet weigh-in may be required.) Reservations for rappelling and rock climbing tours are required.