If you are looking for some scenic and refreshing hikes in Vermont and New York, you might want to check out Cohoes and Lye Brook Falls. These two waterfalls are among the most impressive in their respective states, and they offer a rewarding experience for hikers of all levels. In this post, we will share some information and tips on how to visit these beautiful falls and enjoy the surrounding nature.
Cohoes Falls Cohoes Falls is a waterfall on the Mohawk River shared by the city of Cohoes and the town of Waterford, New York. It is one of the largest waterfalls in New York State, with a height of 90 feet and a width of 1,000 feet. The falls are also known as the Great Falls of the Mohawk, and they have been celebrated by travelers and poets since the 18th century. The falls are especially spectacular in springtime, when they can flow at up to 90,000 cubic feet per second.
To visit Cohoes Falls, you can park at the Overlook Park or the Falls View Park, which are both located on North Mohawk Street in Cohoes. The parks offer viewing platforms, interpretive signs, picnic areas, and restrooms. You can also walk along the trails that connect the two parks and enjoy the views of the river and the falls. The parks are open from dawn to dusk, and there is no admission fee.
Lye Brook Falls is a waterfall in the Lye Brook Wilderness, just outside of Manchester Center, Vermont. It is one of the highest waterfalls in Vermont, with a drop of 125 feet over several tiers of cascades and horsetails. The falls are located along an unnamed tributary to Lye Brook, which tumbles down the side of Lye Brook Hollow.
To visit Lye Brook Falls, you can hike the Lye Brook Falls Trail, which is a moderate 4.6-mile round trip trail that starts at the Lye Brook Falls Trailhead on Lye Brook Falls Road in Manchester Center. The trail is marked with blue blazes and follows Lye Brook Trail for about 1.8 miles before turning right onto Lye Brook Falls Trail. The trail is mostly flat and shaded, but it becomes rocky and steep as it approaches the falls. The trail offers views of the forest, the stream, and the falls. The trailhead has a parking lot with room for 20 cars, and there is no fee to use the trail.
Tips for Visiting Cohoes and Lye Brook Falls Here are some tips to make your visit to these waterfalls more enjoyable and safe:
- Wear sturdy shoes and bring water and snacks. The trails can be rocky, muddy, or slippery depending on the weather and season.
- Respect the wilderness and practice Leave No Trace principles. Do not litter, feed wildlife, or damage plants. Stay on the marked trails and do not climb on or near the falls.
- Check the weather forecast before you go. Avoid hiking in thunderstorms or heavy rain, as they can cause flash floods or lightning strikes.
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for hazards. There may be poison ivy, ticks, snakes, or bears along the trails. Keep your distance from wildlife and do not approach or harass them.
- Have fun and take lots of pictures! These waterfalls are stunning natural attractions that deserve to be admired and appreciated.
- Cahoes Falls is handicapped accessible. Lye Brook Falls is not.
We hope this post has inspired you to visit Cohoes and Lye Brook Falls. They are both worth a trip if you love waterfalls and hiking. If you have any questions or comments about these falls, feel free to leave them below. Happy trails!