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Very easy trails, plus one tricky off-trail section.

The High Falls Conservation Area, Philmont, NY is a stunning destination and a great place to cool down in New York’s brutal summer heat.

This hike in is very short. Really, it’s more of walk — though there is a wet rock scramble to contend with so do be careful and make sure you bring proper footwear.

There are at least two glorious waterfalls, with the tallest falls being over 150 feet (tallest in Columbia County). And there are excellent viewing spots from above and at the base of the falls.

I explored most of the High Falls Conservation Area’s trails and clocked my stay at 1.6 miles.

Allow an hour to visit the falls, walk the trails, and see all the sights. Many people stay much longer to picnic around the gorgeous natural pool at the base of the falls.

Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times. (And please pick up any poop your pooch poops!)

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Table of Contents

High Falls Conservation Area Hiking Trails

The High Falls Conservation Area hiking trails include…

Short, easy, interconnected trails
Lots of beautiful stream-side forest (hemlock trees galore)
Stunning waterfalls
Two great views of the main falls

This trail guide is new. The hike was completed on 5/21/22 under which date this page will eventually be filed.
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High Falls Conservation Area Trail Notes & Gallery

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The parking area is large and well-tended. High Falls is home to several fragile habitats and unique plants. Please stay on the trails to protect them.

Upper Falls

Pass though the wooden door frame and follow the Waterfall Way trail to the upper viewing platform, on the east side of the conservation area.

On the way, make a note of this junction. You’ll come back here soon and head down the Agawamuck Trail to the lower falls.

High Falls Conservation Area trail signposts — High Falls Conservation Area trail signs

For now, continue along the Waterfall Way. In just a few minutes you’ll reach the Waterfall Overlook…

hikers enjoying view of waterfall — High Falls from above

High Falls Conservation Area waterfall seen from above — High Falls from above

Head back to the junction.

Lower Falls

Follow the trail signs down to the Agawamuck Creek — the “Creek of Many Fish” to the Mohicans. There are some nice short trails to explore before you head out to the main falls.

You’ll pass this small, gorgeous waterfall on the way out…

small waterfall seen on the Agawamuck Creek — Small waterfall

And you’ll need to scramble over some rocky barriers. The official trail ends at these rocks. From here on, you are technically off-trail and should proceed at your own risk.