DEC Encourages Visitors to Salmon River Falls to 'Get Offline, Get Outside' Safely and Sustainably

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton today encouraged new and returning visitors to Salmon River Falls Unique Area in the town of Orwell, Oswego County, to follow site-specific rules and signage to prevent potential injuries and ensure sustainable use of this sensitive natural area. Visitors may be ticketed for entering restricted areas or violating regulations.

“New York State is home to beautiful natural treasures that attract visitors from across the state and the country, and following area regulations helps visitors protect themselves and others, as well as the Salmon River and its picturesque falls,” said Acting Commissioner Lefton. “DEC encourages visitors to enjoy Salmon River Falls safely, responsibly, and sustainably while they get offline and get outside.”

DEC continues to observe an increase in visitation to Salmon River Falls Unique Area and its focal point, the 110-foot waterfall located upstream of DEC’s Salmon River Fish Hatchery. Salmon River Falls site-specific regulations include:

• The area is open to the public from sunrise to sunset;

• Access to restricted areas is prohibited including within 15 feet of the falls edge, all cliff faces, and falling rock zones;

• Swimming and wading in the plunge pool is prohibited;

• Pets must be leashed and under control at all times;

• Camping, open fires, rock climbing, and the possession of alcoholic beverages, glass containers, or paint while on the property is prohibited;

• Parking is limited to designated areas and off-road motor vehicle use is prohibited (including snowmobiles, cars, trucks, motorcycles, and ATVs);

• Visitors must carry out all trash and refuse; and

• Cutting of live trees, building of new trails, throwing projectiles, or causing anything to fall over the gorge is strictly prohibited. 

Visit these nearby DEC lands for your outdoor adventures when the Salmon River Falls parking area is at or near capacity:

Altmar State Forest; Chateaugay State Forest; Hall Island State Forest; and Salmon River State Forest

DEC and partners continue to advance projects to enhance public access and safety at Salmon River Falls Unique Area. On the Gorge Trail, the Adirondack Mountain Club implemented a major restoration consisting of widening the trail to facilitate two-way traffic, widening and replacing portions of the upper stone staircase, and resurfacing the trail to improve drainage and tread. On the Falls Trail, DEC Operations staff resurfaced the trail and added additional drainage.

Governor Kathy Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative promotes physical and mental health by helping New York’s kids and families to put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, and enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings.

DEC encourages all visitors to be prepared and Hike Smart by staying on designated trails and wearing proper gear and attire, including footwear appropriate for trail conditions. Additional site-specific information is available on DEC’s website.