OK Slip Falls, Indian Lake
A spectacular waterfall with a funny name in the Central Adirondacks.
OK, Slip Falls is one of the Adirondack’s highest waterfalls, at 250’. But it wasn’t until 2014 that hikers had public trail access to this gorgeous spot. Since then, it’s become one of the most popular hikes in the Central Adirondacks. It’s accessible year-round and is popular with snowshoers, too.
OK Slip Falls Trail. Courtesy NY DEC
OK Slip Falls is located on Route 28, about 7.5 miles east of Indian Lake or just over 4 miles west of North River. The parking area is less than a 5-minute walk (or four city blocks for you flatlanders) from the trailhead. We found everything well-marked.
One nice thing about this trek is that it’s a relatively easy ramble through the ADK forest. There is no steep, strenuous climb to a summit. Of course, there are no panoramic views across mountaintops, but the view of OK Slip Falls is a tremendous reward. The journey to the Falls is 3 miles each way or 6 miles roundtrip. Dogs are permitted but must be on a leash. You can get ticketed if your dog is caught off-leash.
The trail winds through forests of large trees, like red maples, white pines, birches and beeches. It also passes by several ponds. The terrain is varied — dirt road, forest trail, bog bridging. The area between Indian Lake and North River contains large areas of wetlands. The DEC maintains the trail, and they place boards where things are muddy — aka bog bridging. Mossess, wildflowers and fungi abound.
OK Slip Falls in Winter
As for the fauna, keep an eye-peeled for moose, known to inhabit these wetlands. This is also an excellent place for birders and spotting frogs, salamanders or reptiles.
Once you reach the Falls, you can extend your trek to the Hudson River. We did not do this, however. We are told it’s a steep drop down, making it a strenuous return back up to the trail. We were more than satisfied with our reward of stunning Falls views.
If you are interested in photographing the falls, the light is strongest in the morning, as the falls are shaded by afternoon, although still stunning.
The trail is accessible year-round, so if snowshoeing is your jam, the frozen falls are an incredible sight, as well.
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