Just a few miles south of Tupper Lake, you will find a “must visit” location during your Adirondack Vacation! In the Horseshoe Wild Forest in the Town of Piercefield, the babbling Bog River pours into the southern tip of Big Tupper Lake via a beautiful set of falls. The upper portion of the waterfall splits around a small island. The bottom and steeper portion of the falls travels under a beautiful stone bridge and then cascades into Big Tupper Lake. 

Year round, this is a beautiful location to visit. On both sides of the fall you will find a series of herd paths allowing you to approach the waterfall from different vantage points. Large flat rocks to the sides of the falls offer the perfect spot to sunbath or enjoy a picnic lunch as you listen to the rhythmic sound of the water. On the eastern side of the upper falls you may even find some brave swimmers sliding down the rocks when the water is calm and the temps are up. 

So, whether you are fishing, birding or simply relaxing you will be happy you visited the majestic Bog River Falls!

How to Get There

From the Village of Tupper Lake, take New York State Route 30 south to County Route 421. Turn right onto Route 421 and travel for .75 miles. At this point you will cross the falls via a bridge and will find a small parking area with room for approximately 6-7 vehicles to your right.

Hiking

From the trailhead there are herd path located all around the falls that can access you to both sides of the river. Paths lead to the top of the falls and to the Shore of Tupper Lake itself. Take in the spectacular picturesque view from the stone bridge as well.

Elevation:

1555 feet

Distance Round Trip:

Up to 0.2 miles depending on path

Approximate Time Round Trip:

Up to 10 minutes depending on path

Trailhead Location:

From the intersection of Route 30 and Route 3 in Tupper Lake, follow Route 30 toward Long Lake. Continue for 9.1 miles to Route 421 on your right. Turn down 421 and continue for 0.75 miles to the parking for Bog River Falls on the left.

Hiker Recommendation:

Excellent hike for all family members.

Swimming

Choose quiet water away from the current.

Birding

Loons are especially plentiful in this area. Be on the lookout for osprey, ravens, spruce grouse or even a bald eagle.

Snowshoeing

The waterfall takes on a totally new look in winter, but the best views in winter would be from the bridge. Snowshoeing and skiing not needed. Be sure to stay off any ice that may have formed, it will be very thin and unstable due to the moving water.

Fishing

Elevation: 1,740 feet
Area: 2,845 acres
Shoreline Length: 52.3 miles
Max Depth: 55 feet
Mean Depth: 5.2 feet

DEC hand launch site off Route 421 south of the Village of Tupper Lake in Franklin County. No motors permitted.
Fish Species: Brook Trout, Largemouth Bass, Brown Bullhead

This was historically a brook trout fishery, with largemouth bass introduced in the 1980's with great success. Look for the brookies where tributaries enter the lake.

Camping

Thirty-nine numbered campsites have been constructed and designated (site number, fire ring, and round 4.5 inch yellow marker) for public use on a first-come, first-served basis.