Write-up: Mary Pat Connors
Leader: Mary Pat Connors
Co-Leader: Lu Blanchard

In a hiking club that is nearing its 100-year mark, it is difficult to come up with a new hike. But I had come across a flier from Adirondack Experience.com called “The Waterfall Challenge.” This became the foundation for our “Find the Waterfalls” hike.

Our club has been up and down routes 30 and 8 out of Speculator many times, but never stopped to find some of these falls before.

We started with the most challenging, Shanty Brook Falls. This is only challenging in that you must first ford the East Branch of the Sacandaga River. We had a large amount of rainfall during the week, so the water was at a high level for autumn and rock-hopping was not an option. So we donned our water shoes and rolled up our pants. A most “attractive” fashion look for the adventurous start of the day.

Some went directly across, ignoring the water lapping at our pants, others tried to find a less wet crossing. We then dried our feet, put on our boots and continued on.

The trail follows Shanty Brook with a slight incline. The falls were lovely and full after the rains, but we did not linger long because we had many more waterfalls to find.

My co-leader, Lu and I added a bit more fun by previously placing painted rocks at each trail or waterfall. This became a good-natured competition to be the one to find the prize.

Next was Griffin Falls, a short drive from Rt. 8 on a dirt road. Here the rocks beckoned many to scramble, or for others to sit and soak up the sun.

My favorite falls was next. E. Jimmy Creek is well-hidden, with only a very small pull-off on Rt. 8. It is a very short distance from the road, but the peaceful glen with its moss-covered rock and double waterfalls was a delight. Others seemed to feel the same because many photos were taken here.

Onward we went to Falls, 4, 5 and 6. First Auger Falls, outstanding with its force and volume of water cascading. Here we met a large group traveling together and shared our many baked goods.

Then Christine Falls, a dammed waterfall with multiple cascades.

And finally, two miles down old route 30 to Austin Falls. Again we had photo sessions, but it had been a long day and hikers were ready for refreshments.

All the hidden rocks were found, bringing smiles but “leaving no trace.”
We ended at what has become a favorite restaurant/bar, “The Oxbow.”
I loved the day, seeing some new, some familiar sights. I think others shared this sentiment also.