A little hamlet on the backside of Whiteface Mountain in the northern Adirondacks of New York, Union Falls is an unforgettable place to visit and live. Union Falls Pond is the jewel of the community. Originally dammed by Paul Smith for hydroelectric power, it is the ideal place for outdoor adventure. At 5.3 miles long and with a 25 feet max depth, there is no shortage of things to do around Union Falls Pond’s 18.4 miles of shoreline.
A quiet community most of the year, the Union Falls area gets a little busier once summer arrives. Part-time residents and camp owners, outdoor enthusiasts, campers and summer vacationers come to enjoy the remoteness and the lake. Even with a small summer surge, Union Falls offers plenty of peace and serenity compared to busier tourist communities in the region.
The Union Falls area provides a classic Adirondack retreat away from the hustle and bustle of more populated areas with endless opportunities to relax and connect with nature. If a change from the slow pace is needed, Union Falls is still close enough to larger communities with more amenities to provide a little excitement. Several nearby communities are just a short trip away and offer the perfect chance to catch a movie, show or meal.
Read on for more information on activities to enjoy around this unique Adirondack area.
3 Best Things to Do Around Union Falls Pond
1. Paddling & Boating
Union Falls Pond is one of the best areas in the region to kayak or canoe. While much of the Union Falls shoreline is developed with privately owned properties, public access is available at the lake’s north end near the dam. Parking spots in this area can be limited, so parking further away and doing a little carry may be necessary.
Additionally, one of the pond’s greatest assets for paddling is its shallow depth that makes it more difficult for motorized boats to access. Regulations allow motor boats with trolling motors under 10 horsepower, but many opt to explore by kayak or canoe to more easily overcome the difficulty of navigating tree stumps and lower areas.
2. Fishing
One of the best things to do around Union Falls Pond for anglers is to throw in a line. Low spots limit motorized boat traffic that disturbs fish, so Union Falls Pond provides the perfect location for fish to thrive.
Because Union Falls Flow is a reservoir, it is populated with many tree stumps that add the perfect hideaway for fish to grow away from potential predators. Prominent fish species that anglers can expect to catch here are Walleye and Perch.
3. Hiking
While there is not hiking directly off Union Falls Pond, there are multiple nearby mountains and hills to explore. Hikers looking for things to do around Union Falls Pond should check out Silver Lake Mountain, Catamount Mountain, Cobble Lookout, and Cooper Kiln Trail.
Silver Lake Mountain
Just a quick 4 mile drive away, Silver Lake Mountain is a short but steep hike that leads to a gorgeous vista. Views from the vista include Silver Lake, Catamount Mountain and Taylor Pond. The full hike is 1.8 miles making it perfect for a quick hike during the summer.
Catamount Mountain
If you are looking for a more challenging hike, Catamount Mountain is about a 10 mile drive away. A 1.8 mile hike to the top, much of Catamount trail’s terrain is moderate to steep. As you begin the hike, travel through flat and semi-open areas where you can find wild flowers in spring and summer. Begin to ascend and then go down a slight dip that leads to a crossing over a brook. After the brook, the steepest part of the hike leads to a chimney to summit the mountain.
Cobble Lookout
Cobble Lookout is one of the easiest hikes in the region. Cobble Lookout, located just outside of Wilmington, is a 13 mile drive away from Union Falls. A 2.5 mile out and back hike, the climb is a little more gradual than the last two hikes mentioned. From the vista, views of Whiteface, Esther, Giant and other High Peaks wait.
Cooper Kiln Trail
Cooper Kiln Trail is a 15 mile drive from Union Falls. An easier hike, this trail is located near Cobble Lookout. From the trailhead, travel 2.7 miles to Cooper Kiln Pond. From flat to slightly inclined terrain, the trail is beginner friendly making it an ideal trip for most hikers. During the wetter season, this trail can be very wet and is best avoided to avoid causing trail erosion. Cooper Kiln trail is multiple use and also popular for mountain biking, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Finally, if you enjoy fishing, Cooper Kiln Pond is home to native brook trout.
To enjoy all the things to do around Union Falls Pond, consider looking for a home in the area or booking a vacation rental for a classic Adirondack vacation. Our experienced forever agents at Adirondack Premier Properties are at the ready to assist. Call 518-523-3333 today to start your Union Falls Pond adventure!