Adirondack waterfalls, like Shelving Rock Falls, have a special rustic quality about them that just sets them apart from other waterfalls in New York State. Perhaps it’s the enormous rock formations surrounding them (and the creeks flowing to and from them) or the dramatic wooded landscape that encompasses them. These waterfalls are distinctive and really are some of the most peaceful and stunning destinations on Earth.
Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn a small commission if you purchase products from our site at no additional cost to you.
The Trail
The trail to Shelving Rock Falls is extremely short (less than 1/2 mile) and fairly flat, except for a short section with a giant rock field that has to be navigated. The trail leads to the top of the falls, and you can get a glimpse of the top portion of the falls from above.
If you decide to see the falls from the bottom, the trail becomes slightly more difficult and is not very well marked. In fact, there are numerous beaten-down paths from the top leading down to the bottom.
If you decide to hike beyond the falls, the woods are full of huge rock outcroppings.
The Falls
Like most Adirondack destinations, this Shelving Rock Falls is popular. If you want to avoid having to deal with lots of other hikers competing for pictures of the waterfall, I suggest visiting early in the morning or during the week.
There are several places where you can see various views of the falls as you head down into the glen. But the most impressive view of the falls is, without question, from the bottom.
If you plan to visit the waterfall from the bottom, then this is a hiking boot or sneakers-only hike. Flip flops or crocs can be dangerous here, especially after it rains and the trails are muddy.
Other Things To See
The creek runs through a rough ravine and there are smaller waterfalls and pools throughout the creek, making this a great place to cool off on a hot day. As we were leaving, we saw a bunch of people in bathing suits and towels, looking like they were about to do just that.
In addition to the Falls, a trail leads to the summit of the mountain and provides a stunning view of Lake George below. We didn’t take the hike to the summit, but I have heard it is fairly easy for families with kids, as Adirondack trails go. The Mountain Summit Trailhead is just past the Shelving Rock Falls Parking Area.
Out and About With Nova
This is a very dog-friendly destination. The trail up to the falls is fairly flat and wide, so you can easily walk your dog without crowding other hikers (or their dogs.) As previously mentioned, the trails down to the fall are steep and narrow and might be difficult to keep a respectful distance from other hikers.
As always, please clean up after your pets. This doesn’t mean bag it up and leave it by the trailside. It means bag it up, take it with you, and dispose of it when you find a trash receptacle. I can’t tell you how annoyed it makes me to see bags of dog poop on the trail. We recommend purchasing an odor-free poop-carrying bag. This will give you a place to carry the bag of poop without having to hold it or smell it for the remainder of your hike.
Please note: There are no trash receptacles in the parking area. ( You will need to through it away when you get “back to civilization.”)
Parking Area
As you drive up Shelving Rock Road, you will see the Shelving Rock Falls Trailhead on your right, the parking area is just up the road from there. You will have to hike back down the road once you park in the parking area. The is absolutely no parking allowed on Shelving Rock Road. This is enforced, and cars are towed at the owner’s expense.
Getting To Shelving Rock Falls
The road to Shelving Rock Falls is a long, mostly dirt road that is narrow and winding in places. This road is a bit treacherous in some places, so mind your speed.