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Salmon River Falls

Directions

From the hamlet of Orwell, proceed south on CR 22 and take a left on the Falls Road.  You are looking for the Salmon River Unique Area.  It is a popular attraction and clearly marked.

County: Oswego
Town: Orwell
USGS Map: Orwell
Waterway: Salmon River
Latitude: N 43° 32' 52"
Longitude: W 75° 56' 27"
Drop: 110'
Type: Traditional cascade
Region: East of Pulaski
Parking: Unpaved lot
Trail type: Gravel/wood/stone walkway
Length of hike: 0.2 mile
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Accessibility: Public
Name: Official

Orwell Quadrangle

Salmon River FallsWithout a doubt, Salmon River Falls is the largest and most popular waterfall in Oswego County.

The Salmon River Unique Area is well maintained by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.  The trail from the parking lot to the upper overlook area is less than 0.2 miles long.  This gravel trail is smooth and a leisurely walk.  Part way through that trail is a gorge trail that descends to the river below.  This is a combination path and stone steps.  The descent is moderate but beware.  The return to the top will wind most hikers.  This trek is not for everyone!

NOTE:  Please refer to this posting from the NYS DEC ...

Due to deteriorating conditions, the Gorge Trail at Salmon River Falls is CLOSED for the foreseeable future.

UPDATE: The Salmon River Falls property, including Falls Trail (and viewing platforms), Riverbed Stairs and Riverside Trail are still open to the public. This closure only affects the Gorge Trail leading to the base of the falls.

Please check the DEC webpage for up-to-date information regarding trail conditions: http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/63578.html

At the end of the upper trail are a number of observation areas.  There is also an area with wooden bordered steps that take you to the riverbed above the falls.  Please use caution above the crest.  Deaths have occurred at this location.  In fact, if you look closing in our video, you will see a couple at the extreme left on the crest.

These pictures were taken in late July.  In the spring of the year, the water cascading can cover the width of the river.

The Salmon River flows into Lake Ontario.

Last update:  June 14, 2017

Hover on any of the thumbnails to see an enlarged image

Salmon River Falls Salmon River Falls
Salmon River Falls Salmon River Falls
Salmon River Falls Salmon River Falls

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