Ausable Chasm wilderness guide
Natural Attraction · NY

Ausable Chasm

Ausable Chasm is a stunning sandstone gorge in the Adirondacks, offering diverse outdoor activities and breathtaking views over its dramatic cliffs and water features.

Natural Attraction8003+ Trails

Designation

Natural Attraction

Total Wilderness Area

800

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Ausable Chasm

Ausable Chasm is a stunning sandstone gorge in the Adirondacks, offering diverse outdoor activities and breathtaking views over its dramatic cliffs and water features.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Ausable Chasm, located in the Adirondack Mountains of northeastern New York, is a natural wonder known as the 'Grand Canyon of the East.' This striking geological formation stretches approximately two miles and showcases 500-million-year-old sandstone walls towering up to 150 feet high. The chasm, carved by the Ausable River, features a variety of waterfalls, whirlpools, and rapids that highlight its dynamic geology. Since becoming a tourist attraction in the late 19th century, Ausable Chasm has drawn visitors with its mix of adventure and beauty. Rich in biodiversity, the area is home to lush forests and a variety of wildlife, making it an ideal spot for bird-watching and exploring nature. Key recreation opportunities include hiking, rafting, tubing, rock climbing, and cross-country skiing in winter. Ausable Chasm's appeal lies not only in its breathtaking landscapes but also in the unique outdoor adventures it offers, attracting nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers from around the region.

Field Guide · Natural Attraction
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Ausable Chasm

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Rainbow Falls – A picturesque waterfall located within Ausable Chasm that captivates visitors with its beauty.✦ Adventure Trail – A trail featuring trailside rope challenges providing a thrilling exploration experience.✦ Unique Flora – Provides a habitat for diverse plant species due to its microclimates.✦ Tubing and Rafting – Offers an exciting way to navigate the river and view the chasm from the water.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Ausable Chasm

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Ausable Chasm.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fees are required; special passes available for guided tours.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Ausable Chasm

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Ausable Chasm Campground

Located adjacent to the chasm, offering easy access and comfortable facilities for campers.

Reserve on Recreation.gov
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Ausable Chasm

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Ausable Chasm, New York
⌖ 1.27 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ausable Chasm, New York

Ausable Chasm in New York invites explorers to embark on thrilling hikes, rock climbs, and river paddlings. Amidst its scenic beauty, adventurers can also enjoy camping under the stars.

Summer
Explore Town
Keeseville, New York
⌖ 2.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Keeseville, New York

Keeseville offers a peaceful retreat for adventurers with its access to the stunning landscapes of the Adirondacks. Whether exploring Ausable Chasm or kayaking on Lake Champlain, it's ideal for outdoor exploration.

Fall
Explore Town
Au Sable, New York
⌖ 6.97 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Au Sable, New York

Au Sable, NY, is a hidden gem in the Adirondacks offering hiking, biking, and paddling adventures. With scenic river trails and awe-inspiring chasms, it's an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Plattsburgh, New York
⌖ 10.98 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Plattsburgh, New York

Plattsburgh is a charming Adirondack town offering outdoor adventures like hiking, paddling, and snow sports. Set on Lake Champlain, it's great for summer and fall explorations.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
South Hero, Vermont
⌖ 11.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

South Hero, Vermont

South Hero is a tranquil Vermont island town perfect for paddling and cycling along Lake Champlain. With gentle trails, abundant wildlife, and peaceful winter snowshoeing, it’s an ideal spot for lakeside outdoor adventures year-round.

Late spring through fall for paddling and cycling; winter for snowshoeing
Explore Town
Morrisonville, New York
⌖ 11.59 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Morrisonville, New York

Morrisonville, New York offers a peaceful outdoor retreat with hiking, paddling, and winter sports right by the Adirondack foothills. Ideal for adventurers seeking quiet rivers and snow-covered trails.

Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Ausable Chasm

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Maple Smoke and Trolley Bells: Burlington’s Sugarhouse Morning
ADVEXPEDITION
Burlington, Vermont
TrolleyADV Bookable

Maple Smoke and Trolley Bells: Burlington’s Sugarhouse Morning

A narrated Burlington trolley tour followed by a family sugarhouse visit delivers city scenes, a hands‑on look at maple sugaring, and a warm pancake breakfast—this guide explains what to expect.

TrolleyPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip