When we decided to visit Salmon River Falls, I knew it was a sizable and impressive waterfall, but I was unprepared for its enormous size. The 110-foot Salmon River Falls was even more fantastic than I ever imagined. We visited for the first time in winter, and it was one of the most incredible of all the winter waterfalls we have visited.
I was not disappointed when we revisited Salmon River Falls in the summer. The falls were completely full and seriously flowing. This is a unique waterfall because it is accessible to everyone, with a flat ADA path to several viewing areas.
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Scenic View From Handicap Accessible Trail
This is a popular waterfall and does attract large crowds. When we first visited in the winter, we anticipated that crowds wouldn’t be as intense as they are in the warm weather months, and we were right.
The trail that runs along the rim is handicap accessible with flat, hard-packed ground and a guardrail that runs the length of the trail. The two observation areas also have handrails. This trail is relatively short, so it’s perfect for almost everyone to get out and view this gorgeous waterfall. The observation areas both have fantastic views of the falls from different perspectives.
At the last observation area, the trail turns into the Upper Falls Trail, a foot trail (not handicap accessible) that runs along the river to the Salmon River Reservoir Dam.
Gorge Trail
The Gorge Trail provides visitors with an extraordinary view, but this trail can be dangerous and is closed at various times of the year, such as during the winter (Nov 15th – May 1st) and when the water in the river is high. The Gorge Trail is only open during the summer months.
The trail is extremely challenging and isn’t for everyone. I recommend only attempting this trail if you are a good shape and a seasoned hiker. The trail is steep, and proper footwear is a must. Also, the spray from the falls makes an already challenging hike more perilous by making the steep steps wet.
If you are up to the challenge, no other vantage point gives you a breathtaking view like this. DO NOT attempt to cross the river or swim in the pool at the bottom of the falls. This area is restricted.
The Gorge Trail is closed during the winter to everyone but registered ice climbers. Each climber must fill out a registration form before descending into the gorge and drop it in the registration box at the trailhead. This registration form alerts park authorities as to the number of climbers in the gorge in case of emergency. Due to the dangerous conditions, the DEC recommends that ice climbers climb in pairs.
Ice Climbing Guidelines and Area Restrictions
• No climbing is allowed without registering. To register, fill out the attached form and place it in the registration box at the trailhead kiosk prior to each day’s entry into the gorge.
• No climbing is allowed within the designated restricted area or on the face of the falls.
• Climbers are to use conventional ice climbing gear such as helmets, ice axes, crampons, etc.
• Climbing in areas without ice and or conventional rock climbing is prohibited.
• Ice climbing on this property is at your own risk.
• No open fires.
• No possession of glass containers or alcoholic beverages.
• No motorized vehicles (including snowmobiles) on the property.
• The area is closed from sunset to sunrise.
Riverside View from the Top
I was surprised to see that visitors were given access to the River at the tops of the Falls. It is prohibited to enter the River, but you can stand on the shore and watch the water flow over the top of the falls.
Salmon River Falls in Winter
This is a popular destination for snowmobilers in the winter, and chances are you will see quite a few in the parking lot. The parking lot, at least when we were visiting, is not plowed, and cars will need to park along the side of the road. Be sure to wear boots, as you will probably need to walk through deep snow in some places.
Getting to Salmon River Falls
GPS Coordinates: (43.549161°N, 75.942301°W)
Falls Rd, Richland, NY 13144
Google Map Link
Other Places to Visit
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Winter Waterfalls
Winter Waterfalls are truly magical with their ice formation and snow-covered rocks. We have rounded up a nice collection of waterfalls that a beautiful to see in the winter.