Lake George, nestled in the Adirondacks, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and Shelving Rock offers some of the most accessible and rewarding hiking experiences in the area. Among these, the hike to Shelving Rock Falls stands out as a must-do for novice hikers and families looking for a gentle adventure leading to stunning natural beauty. While Shelving Rock also boasts a summit trail with panoramic views, it’s the allure of cascading water and the ease of the Shelving Rock Falls trail that truly captures the spirit of a perfect Adirondack day hike.
Shelving Rock Falls Hike: A Waterfall Wonderland
The Shelving Rock Falls hike is an idyllic descent to the shores of Lake George, accompanied by the soothing sounds of water tumbling down the mountainside. This trail is known for its ease, making it perfect for hikers of all ages and abilities. Following a wide, unmarked dirt path, the journey to the falls is as enjoyable as the destination itself. Keep an eye out for hidden geocaches along the way, adding a touch of treasure hunting to your nature walk.
As you descend, the path unveils a fascinating glimpse into local wildlife with a beaver dam, a testament to nature’s engineers at work. The highlight, of course, is Shelving Rock Falls itself, where water gracefully cascades into a stony pool. This natural amphitheater invites you to pause, relax, and even dip your toes in the cool, refreshing water – so remember to pack your bathing suit for a delightful lakeside experience at Log Bay, a popular spot for boaters.
Map of Shelving Rock Trail – Lake George, NY
A map showcasing the Shelving Rock trail system in Lake George, New York, highlighting both the Shelving Rock Falls and Shelving Rock Summit trails.
Caution: While generally easy, the final path to the base of the falls can be steep and slippery, especially on wet rocks. Exercise caution and take your time to navigate this section safely.
Getting to Shelving Rock Falls Trailhead from Lake George
Navigating to the Shelving Rock Falls trailhead is straightforward. From Lake George, head south on Route 9 until you reach Route 149. Turn left onto Route 149 West and continue past a golf course. Keep going past Route 9L and make a left onto Buttermilk Falls Road. Follow Buttermilk Falls Road until it naturally transitions into Sly Pond Road as you bear left.
Sly Pond Road will then turn into a dirt road, leading you deeper into the beauty of the Adirondacks. You’ll pass a beaver pond on your left, complete with a beaver lodge – another wildlife spectacle to appreciate. Continue until you see Hog Town Road on your right, at which point Sly Pond Road becomes Shelving Rock Road. Remember, there are designated parking areas in the Shelving Rock area, and roadside parking is prohibited.
Directions to the Falls Trailhead: Continue on Shelving Rock Road for 2.8 miles. Look for an orange-painted steel gate guarding a culvert – the Shelving Rock Falls trail begins right there. You’ll find a parking area shortly beyond the gate on the left.
Shelving Rock Summit Hike: Panoramic Lake Views
For those seeking a bit more elevation and broader vistas, the Shelving Rock Summit hike offers a different, yet equally rewarding, experience. This hike, while still considered easy, involves a gentle uphill climb along what was once an old carriage road. The wide, zig-zagging trail is a testament to historical engineering, making it easy to walk side-by-side with family and friends.
The summit hike takes about an hour at a relaxed pace, with a quicker descent of around half an hour back to the parking lot. As you ascend, glimpses of the lake will tease you through the trees, building anticipation for the final viewpoint. While the immediate summit is a grassy knoll with limited views, a short, narrow path extending about 100 yards from the knoll opens up to a breathtaking panorama of Lake George and the surrounding mountains.
The Shelving Rock Summit trail is approximately 1.5 miles long and is considered moderate-to-steep in sections. The well-engineered trail features rock retaining walls and water run-offs, showcasing the craftsmanship of early trail builders.
Directions to the Summit Trailhead: Follow Shelving Rock Road for approximately 2.7 miles from the first parking lot area. The trailhead sign and parking lot for the Summit trail will be on your right.
Caution: Trail markers can become sparse near the summit, potentially leading to disorientation. It’s advisable to carry markers like cloth strips or extra hats to mark your path, especially at the trail’s end and at key landmarks. Remove them on your way back down to ensure others don’t get confused.
Suggestion: For avid hikers, the Shelving Rock Summit hike might feel relatively short. Consider combining it with a hike to nearby Sleeping Beauty Mountain for a more challenging and extended day of exploring the Adirondack trails.
Explore Both Shelving Rock Trails
Whether you choose the tranquil descent to Shelving Rock Falls or the panoramic ascent to Shelving Rock Summit, both hikes offer unique ways to experience the natural beauty of Lake George. Shelving Rock Falls provides an easy and refreshing escape into a waterfall wonderland, while the summit trail rewards you with stunning lake views. Why not plan a day to explore both and fully appreciate the diverse offerings of Shelving Rock?
