Clarks Gully is a unique place to hike as there are two different ways to hike this gorgeous gully. The upper end of Clarks Gully is known for being one of the most difficult hikes and having the steepest ravines in the area. The lower end, at the bottom, is a super easy hike that ends at a waterfall. Each provides hikers with a completely different experience, however, they do have one thing in common, strikingly beautiful scenery.
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Lower Clarks Gully
Of course, the major draw of this destination is the waterfall. There are several small ones along the trail, which for the most part, is flat. This is a short and easy hike. Lower Clarks Gully is a great hike for a hot day when you can splash in the creek. There is a path that runs alongside the creek in case you aren’t up for walking in the creek. As you get closer to the waterfalls, the path disappears. This is a really lovely waterfall. Most people stop at this waterfall and this is a good idea if you aren’t an experienced hiker. There is a larger waterfall further up the Gully but it isn’t easy to get to.
Upper Clarks Gully
Upper Clarks Gully looks like a nice easy hike when you pull into the parking area. Don’t be fooled. This one is a monster, at least coming back up anyway. It is super steep in areas and as I was heading down, I felt immediate dread knowing that I was going to have to climb back up. If you want to get down to the creek, there is a trail that comes off on your left-hand side. If you blink, you’ll miss it. When you reach the creek there are several little waterfalls, you are on top of the biggest falls, and although you really can’t get down them from here.
If you decide to hike further down the trail rather than head down to the creek, the trail gets hard to follow and it’s easy to wander off the path. Careful to watch where you are going, it is easy to stroll off a cliff if you aren’t paying attention. The best part of this hike is the amazing views. There are several places along the trail where it opens up and you can see for miles. Feel like you are on top of the world from here.
Backwoods Camping
If you are interested in trying backwoods camping, Clarks Gully is a great place to go. You will need to get a permit from the wildlife manager at the DEC and adhere to all backcountry camping rules. We saw quite a few stone fire rings near the creek. It seemed like a really great place to pitch a tent and spend a night to me. Just a reminder that this is very much black bear country, so always be careful and contain food properly.
Getting to Clarks Gully
Lower Clarks Gully
Near Middlesex take Route 245 and turn onto Sunnyside Road. Follow this for about 1/2 mile until you see a parking area and the sign for Clarks Gully.
Upper Clarks Gully
continue past the parking area on Sunnyside Road, and follow it until you come to S. Hill Rd. Take S. Hill Rd and the parking area will be on your right at the top of the hill.
Other Places to Visit in the Area
Have you visited Clarks Gully? Which end did you visit? What did you think of it? Did we miss anything? We would love to hear from you. Please leave us a comment below.
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