Ausable Chasm: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

It’s been drawing visitors since 1870, which makes it one of America’s oldest natural attractions. Ausable Chasm, the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks,” is a two-mile sandstone gorge carved by the Ausable River, and it’s one of the most popular day trips in the Champlain Valley. Here’s what to know before you go, and how to make the most of a visit from our nearby campground.

What Exactly Is Ausable Chasm?

The chasm is a deep, narrow gorge where the Ausable River has cut through layers of Potsdam sandstone over thousands of years. The result is towering cliff walls, waterfalls, potholes, and rock formations with names like Elephant’s Head and the Devil’s Oven. A network of stone walkways and bridges lets you explore the rim and the gorge floor up close.

Things to Do at the Chasm

Hiking the Trails

The classic visit is a self-guided walk along the rim and down into the gorge, following well-maintained paths and footbridges. It’s scenic, manageable for most fitness levels, and packed with photo opportunities.

Rafting and Tubing

On warmer days, floating the calm lower stretch of the river by raft or tube is the highlight. It’s a gentle, family-friendly ride that ends the loop back near the entrance.

The Adventure Trail

For thrill-seekers, the Adventure Trail adds rock scrambles, a cliff walk, rope bridges, and rappelling. It’s a guided experience that turns a scenic walk into a small expedition.

Hours, Tickets, and What to Bring

Ausable Chasm is typically open daily from spring through mid-fall, with reduced or seasonal hours at the edges of the season. Because pricing and operating hours change year to year, it’s best to confirm current rates and times on the official Ausable Chasm website before you head out. When you go, bring:

• Sturdy, closed-toe shoes with grip. The rocks get slick.
• Water and a light snack.
• A swimsuit and towel if you plan to raft or tube.
• A waterproof phone case for photos near the water.

Where to Stay Nearby

One of the best parts of visiting is that you don’t have to rush. Our campground sits about a 10-minute drive away in Peru, NY, so you can spend a full day at the chasm and still be back at your site for a campfire that evening. We cover the area in detail on our RV Park Near Ausable Chasm, NY page, and you can review camping options here.

Best Time to Visit

Mid-summer is ideal for rafting and tubing thanks to warm water, while September brings cooler air and the first hints of fall color along the gorge walls. Mornings are quieter if you’d rather beat the crowds.

Nearby Stops to Pair With Your Visit

Because the chasm sits so close to camp, it pairs perfectly with a bigger day out. Combine it with a morning swim at a Lake Champlain beach, a picnic with a lake view, or an afternoon drive toward Lake Placid and the High Peaks. History buffs can detour to nearby Revolutionary and War of 1812 sites along the lake, while families often turn the float trip into the centerpiece of an easy, low-stress day everyone can enjoy.

Photography Tips for the Gorge

The chasm is a photographer’s dream, but the deep walls create tricky light. Soft, overcast days actually produce the most even, dramatic images, and mid-morning or late afternoon light slants beautifully down the gorge. Bring a wide-angle lens if you have one, keep your gear in a waterproof bag near the rafting section, and watch your footing. The best angles are often right at the edge of the spray.