Don’t miss out: This Upstate NY waterfall trail opens twice a year; hike now or wait until 2025

If you love an Upstate New York waterfall hike, don’t sleep on this scenic trail which is only open to the public twice a year.

The Trenton Falls Scenic Trails, about 20 minutes north of Utica in the foothills of the Adirondacks, will be opening for visitors on its final hiking weekend of the year from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Oct. 5 and 6. Parking and admission is free.

Pets are not allowed on this trail to make sure to leave your dogs at home.

Located in the town of Trenton, the 150-foot waterfalls on this private property, owned by Brookfield Renewable Power, were used to produce hydroelectricity since 1901 and continues to do so today.

The power company and the Town of Trenton created the Trenton Falls Scenic Trail to give the public a chance to explore local history while taking in the area’s stunning natural beauty.

Visitors to the Central NY trails will have the option of two trails. The primary trail, made of stone dust, will take you from the parking area to the Trenton Falls Hydro Dam overlook. This trail is approximately one mile long. The secondary trail, covered in wood mulch, allows visitors to experience scenic vistas along the gorge.

The area is also of interest to geologists. According to the town of Trenton’s website, the rocks in the gorge are approximately 450 million years old. Trenton limestone is filled with fossils, including one spectacular trilobite fossil Isotelus gigas.

Other fossils that have been found at Trenton Falls include concularia, echinoderms, crinoids, cephalopods, gastropods, and bryozoans.

More information can be found on the town of Trenton website.