Hike to Shelving Rock Falls

The hike to beautiful Shelving Rock Falls is only a half mile and well worth the side trip if visiting the east side of Lake George. 

Shelving Rock Road, the road to the parking area, is long, winding, and unpaved, but maintained pretty well and passable in a sedan. You'll want to take the road almost to its end and park in the small lot on the left side of the road just after the bridge on Shelving Rock Creek.

From the parking area, walk back over the bridge and turn right onto the Shelving Rock Bay Trail. There is a sign here indicating Shelving Rock Fall is only a half mile away. The trail runs along the creek shortly and is very scenic. You'll then arrive at a small pond just above a dam. Shelving Rock Falls is just below and you'll be able to hear the water falling nearby.

Continue along the trail as the waterfall comes into view on the right. Take the various side trails to explore the area around the falls. Be cautious around the rocks near the falls, which are very slippery.

There are more small falls and cascades downstream from the main falls, as well as an impressive pool that probably makes for a great swimming hole.

Shelving Rock Falls is close to a number of fantastic hikes on the east side of Lake George. On the day we hiked to the falls, we also hiked to the top of Shelving Rock Mountain. A swim in Shelving Rock Bay is also nearby. Plus hikes to Sleeping Beauty Mountain, Buck Mountain, and Pilot Knob are just down the road.