The Ausable River is one of the most notable rivers in the Adirondacks. Known for fishing and other recreational opportunities, its swimming holes, put ins, and fly fishing spots are popular with locals and tourists alike. The Ausable also hosts a variety of scientific studies and community based conservation efforts.
Running through many of the larger communities in our region, the Ausable flows in two sections: the East Branch and the West Branch. Both branches merge into the main branch in Au Sable Forks which continues flowing through the scenic Ausable river valley into Lake Champlain. With headwaters in the Adirondack Mountains near Lake Placid, the Ausable’s branches flow 94 miles through Wilmington and Keene and ultimately to Lake Champlain.
In addition to offering a variety of outdoor recreation activities, the Ausable also provides excellent opportunities to purchase waterfront property in the Adirondacks. With so many miles of shoreline and flowing through several unique communities, potential buyers are likely to find a match that ticks off the important boxes on their property wishlist. Read on to learn more about the benefits of living close to the beautiful Ausable river!
Getting to Know the Ausable River – Outdoor Recreation
Fishing
The Ausable River offers world class trout fishing. A cold flowing stream with a variety of rocks and downed branches provides ideal habitat for trout. The most sought after fishing can be found on the West Branch of the Ausable river that flows from Lake Placid to Wilmington. This section of the river has multiple wade in areas for fly fisherman to vie for a prized catch.
All anglers should check the regulations of the specific area you plan on fishing. Note that some corridors of the Ausable are catch and release only, or artificial lures only. If you plan on wading, the Ausable River Association offers wader wash stations at multiple points along the river. Washing waders waders before fishing to prevent the spread of invasive species is highly encouraged.
Paddling
While the Ausable River is most known for its trout fishing, it flows into a few different areas that offer the opportunity to paddle. This is a great way to experience the waterway if you are not an angler. If you are looking for an easy paddle in your canoe, kayak or on your SUP, check out the Chubb River area of the Ausable or the Lake Everest section.
Chubb River
The Chubb River can be found on the West Branch of the Ausable River in Lake Placid. The Chubb River is a main tributary to the Ausable. The upper section of this river provides several miles of paddling to enjoy the nature of the Adirondacks. As you paddle upstream you will see Street and Nye mountains.
Lake Everest
This hidden gem in Wilmington, NY offers easy access to the river with a put in at the public beach on Lake Everest. During the summer months, the town offers canoe and kayak rentals. Approximately one mile of paddling is available with spectacular views of Whiteface and the Sentinel Mountains.
Swimming
Popular on hot summer days, the Ausable River also offers a few areas to enjoy swimming where the river slows and pools. Both branches of the river have public access swimming areas. Be sure to check recent rainfall amounts and current river height, and brush up on your swift water safety before swimming near any rapids during high water times. Also, follow any posted safety guidelines where you choose to swim.
East Branch
Park Near Marcy Field – Right across from Marcy Field between Keene and Keene Valley, a charming park offers a place to cool down during the warmer summer months. Much of this area is shallower than other areas along the river making it ideal for all ages.
Jay Covered Bridge – Enjoy exploring the historical Jay Covered Bridge, and cool off with a quick dip in the water. The river flows beneath the bridge, and there is a pathway down to the river.
Johns Brook – While this is not directly on the Ausable River, it does connect to it in Keene Valley. If you are looking to swim this brook, be prepared for a short hike (3.5 miles) to reach the swimming hole near Johns Brook Lodge.
West Branch
Lake Everest – This is the most known swimming area for both residents and visitors. Lake Everest offers a sandy beach, kayak & canoe rentals, picnic area, park area and even some small trails to take a little hike while enjoying the lake.
The Flume – Just outside of Wilmington heading toward Lake Placid is a parking area for The Flume. This is a faster flowing waterway, so use caution if you plan on swimming here, especially if the region has had a rainy summer and the river is higher. This swimming area offers stunning scenery as well as the opportunity to see waterfalls!
Getting to Know the Ausable River – Real Estate
If you are interested in purchasing waterfront real estate, the Ausable River could be the perfect fit to meet your budget and needs. As with all waterfront property, prices can vary depending on location and property features. Many properties on lakeshores in the Adirondacks fetch a higher price, so limiting your search to lakes only might make it difficult to find a property that fits your needs.
The Ausable River in particular has a wide variety of available properties due to its length and path through uniquely different communities. The Ausable River runs 94 miles from the Adirondack Mountains to Lake Champlain, providing many miles of shoreline. It also flows through a variety of communities, creating ample opportunities to find the perfect property in a town that has just the right Adirondack vibe you are seeking.
At Adirondack Premier Properties, we know the area and take pride in helping potential buyers find properties that match their Adirondack waterfront dreams. To stay in the loop on new properties as they become available throughout our region, keep an eye on our Adirondack Riverfronts page . Whether you have already found a property that interests you, or want to get more familiar with the region, contact one of our spectacular real estate agents today at 518-523-3333!