Ausable Chasm: Walking the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks
A short, dramatic gorge with carved rock walls, wooden walkways and scenic river tours—accessible Adirondack drama
You step down onto a wooden walkway and the world shifts. The timber vibrates underfoot while the Ausable River, a narrow ribbon at this point, rumbles and bangs against polished granite walls that have been knifed by water for millennia. Spray catches sunlight and throws it like confetti across the narrow throat of the gorge; the air turns cooler, greener. The chasm doesn’t whisper— it speaks, and if you listen, the conversation is all river and stone.
Trail Wisdom
Start Early
Arrive at opening to avoid tour groups and catch morning light in the gorge for better photos and quieter trails.
Wear Grippy Shoes
Boardwalks and stone steps can be wet and slick—sturdy hiking shoes with good tread reduce slips.
Combine Walk and Water
Book a guided river tour if you want close-up river action—staffed trips include flotation and instruction.
Respect Closures
Trail sections may close seasonally for safety; follow posted rules and don’t shortcut barriers.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Keeseville historic village for stone mills and a quieter riverside walk
- •Downstream put-in spots for quieter paddling away from the main attraction
Wildlife
Bald eagle, Beaver
Conservation Note
The chasm is managed to protect fragile rock and riparian habitat; visitor fees contribute to trail maintenance—stay on marked paths and pack out waste.
Ausable Chasm has been a tourist destination since the late 19th century and was promoted as the 'Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks' to draw visitors by rail and carriage.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: waterfalls & high flows, wildflowers, fewer crowds
Challenges: muddy trails, cold water spray, variable access
Snowmelt swells the Ausable, making the gorge loud and dramatic; trail conditions can be muddy and some lower routes may open later in spring.
summer
Best for: river tours, family outings, warm weather photography
Challenges: crowds, hot afternoons, spotty cell service
Summer is peak season for guided tours and family visits—arrive early to beat crowds and heat.
fall
Best for: fall foliage, crisp light for photos, scenic drives
Challenges: shorter days, busy weekends, cooler temperatures
Fall is the most visually striking time with maples and birches framing the gorge—expect weekend crowds in October.
winter
Best for: ice formations, quiet solitude, winter photography
Challenges: ice on boardwalks, limited access, cold
Winter transforms the chasm into an ice-sculpted space; lower trails and tours may be closed—check availability before visiting.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy Hiking ShoesEssential
Provide traction on wet boardwalks and uneven stone surfaces.
Waterproof JacketEssential
Spray and sudden showers make a lightweight waterproof useful year-round.
2-Liter HydrationEssential
Keeps you hydrated on exposed rim trails and during river-side breaks.
Polarizing Filter or Lens Hood
Reduces glare on water and boosts color contrast for gorge photos.
Common Questions
How long does it take to walk the Ausable Chasm trails?
The main gorge loop is about 1–2 hours depending on stops; combine with a river tour for a half- to full-day outing.
Are guided river trips safe for beginners?
Yes—seasonal guided trips provide life jackets, helmets and instruction; operators tailor routes to ability and river conditions.
Is there an entry fee?
Yes—Ausable Chasm charges admission for access to the developed trails and guided activities; fees support maintenance and staffing.
Can I bring my dog?
Policies vary—dogs may be restricted on certain trails and tours for safety; check the attraction’s official site before visiting.
Is swimming allowed in the chasm?
Swimming in the gorge is generally prohibited due to strong currents and submerged hazards; follow posted signs and staff guidance.
When is the best time to see fall color?
Mid-September through mid-October is prime for fall foliage, though exact timing depends on elevation and weather that year.
What to Pack
Sturdy, grippy shoes for traction; waterproof jacket for spray; 2L of water to stay hydrated; camera with polarizer for river shots
Did You Know
Ausable Chasm has been a public attraction since the late 1800s and was a stop on early Adirondack tourist routes—visitors have been paying to see the gorge for more than 140 years.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Arrive early on weekends to avoid lines; 2) Confirm guided tour schedules before you go; 3) Download offline maps—cell is unreliable in the gorge; 4) Dress in layers—conditions inside the chasm are often cooler and wetter.
Local Flavor
After a walk, head into nearby Keeseville for diner fare and coffee—local cafés and roadside stands serve hearty sandwiches and pies. For a longer post-adventure evening, drive to Lake Placid or Plattsburgh for microbreweries and farm-to-table restaurants.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Plattsburgh International Airport (PBG) ~30–40 minutes; Driving distance from Lake Placid: ~35–40 miles; Trailhead: on-site parking in Keeseville; Cell service: spotty in the gorge; Permits/Passes: paid admission and separate fees for guided river tours—check operator websites for seasonal hours.
Sustainability Note
Stay on boardwalks, pack out all trash, avoid climbing on wet rock and do not disturb shoreline vegetation—visitor fees fund ongoing conservation and trail upkeep.