Indian Falls

Essex County, New York

Your visit at a glance

Waterfall height: Not recorded
Location: Essex County, New York
Access status: Wilderness trail; long day hike from a fee trailhead
The walk: About 4.3 miles each way
Ground & access: Rocky, rooted wilderness trail with a steady climb. Wilderness regulations apply.

Northern New York Waterfalls: Indian Falls

Indian Falls is on Marcy Brook in the High Peaks Wilderness, on the main route to Mount Marcy. From the Adirondack Loj parking area, follow the blue-blazed Van Hoevenberg Trail to Marcy Dam (2.1 to 2.3 miles). Cross the wooden bridge below the former dam, turn left toward Mount Marcy, pass the Phelps Mountain trail junction at 3.0 miles, and continue to Indian Falls at about 4.3 miles, where the trail crosses the brook on open ledges. The view of Algonquin from the slabs above the falls is the main attraction. To see the falls from below, take the Lake Arnold Crossover Trail down about 75 yards. Return the same way.

Plan your visit

Van Hoevenberg Trail from the Adirondack Loj trailhead past Marcy Dam to the Indian Falls crossing of Marcy Brook

The onX trail guide gives 4.3 miles from the Adirondack Loj trailhead to Indian Falls. Northern New York Waterfalls gives 4.5 miles one way.

Rocky, rooted wilderness trail with a steady climb. Wilderness regulations apply.

Where to start

Adirondack Loj trailhead parking, which requires a daily fee and can fill early in summer and during fall foliage.

Timing & water

Year-round wilderness trail; winter conditions require proper gear.

Before you go

Daily parking fee at the Adirondack Loj trailhead. No permit is needed for day hikes.

Visitor information

Visit sources

More waterfalls nearby

Within 40 straight-line miles. Road and trail distances will differ.

Explore New York

Waterfall location

Essex County, New York.

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