I spent a lot of my childhood camping in the Adirondacks. However, it wasn’t until I was an adult, bringing my children, that I began to appreciate the magnificent scenery. The massive rocks that fill every river and creek create dramatic waterfalls that don’t necessarily have to be tall to be spectacular. Auger Falls is one of these waterfalls. While not particularly tall, the rocks create dips and rises that result in a fantastic waterfall.
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The Falls
Auger Falls is a stunning waterfall, but not just for the falls themselves. The Sacandaga River flows through a narrow channel filled with large rocks and is lined by an erosion-chiseled wall along the far side of the River, creating one of the most exquisite vistas imaginable. If you walk along the River as we did, the scene becomes more dramatic the further you walk.
Once you reach the falls, you need to proceed with caution. The giant rocks slope downwards towards the River and can be slippery. If the water is rough and running fast, it can be hazardous to creep along the rocks on the River’s edge. You can get a good view of them from a safe vantage point above the falls.
The Trail
The main trail of Auger Falls is a loop trail. Most sites will tell you that once you park in the parking lot, head back out towards the highway, where the trailhead is. We drove to the end of the parking lot, where the trail runs alongside the Sacandaga River. I prefer taking the trail from this direction because you get to see the falls develops as the River gets rocky and narrow.
The trail follows along the River, weaving in and out of the surrounding woods. The scenery on this trail is fantastic, as it loops around old trees and hollows, the trees close in around the path. These are old woods that have a splendid mystic energy and add character to this hike. Beware, several short trails shoot off from the main trail. The best way not to get lost is to follow the River. This is a gorgeous hike with lots of opportunities to appreciate the rustic beauty of the Adirondacks.
Out and About With Nova
This was one of Nova’s first big hikes, and she was thrilled to be trotting along through the woods, jumping over logs, and sniffing all the new smells. However, she got apprehensive as we got closer to the waterfall. The roar of the rushing water was thunderous and scared her to the point where she didn’t want to travel up the trail any further. Beware that when the falls are really flowing, they are loud and very close to the trail. We ended up carrying Nova pass the falls (good thing she was tiny at the time!)
We saw many other dogs on the trail, and their owners were very courteous, respecting dog/trail etiquette. Remember that if your dog does not immediately recall when called, they need to be on a leash – not just for the protection of other dogs and hiker, but for their own protection. There are large predators in these woods.
Nova wants to remind everyone that the #1 rule of Dog/Trail etiquette is to always clean up after your pets and bring the bagged poop with you to be disposed of when you reach a trash receptacle.
Camping
There is a camping spot with a firepit up near the top of the falls. This is a flat area with a fantastic view of the falls. It is quite a trek from the parking area. Another area not far from the parking area appears to be a large camping spot, suitable for large groups.
Getting to Auger Falls
Address: Wells, NY 12190