Spring may mean more muddy trails, but it also means waterfalls are at their peak. At Robert V. Riddell State Park, use the Gersoni road trailhead (just south of I-88 exit 17, main parking lot for the park is on the north side of I-88. Park on side of Gersoni Road for the Mud Lake Trail). The hike to the waterfall (pictured above, photo by Alicia Klein) is a 3.5 mile out and back. See the Riddell State Park listing which includes a map.

Emmons Pond Bog has a waterfall just off the trail. Being a bog, this trail is often muddy in places and crosses two small streams. The reward for making your way through is a wonderful waterfall. The path to the waterfall is steep, walking poles are helpful. Emmons is also a wonderful place to spot spring ephemerals.

The Robert B. Woodruff Outdoor Learning Center, on the campus of Owen D. Young Central School in Van Hornesville, features several waterfalls. Please note: As this trail is on school property, it is closed to the public during school hours of 7 am – 3:30 pm Monday through Friday during the school year and summer program. The trail is accessed on the north side of the school, parking is available by the community garden.

Let us know about other area waterfalls, and send in your photos to outdoors@otsego2000.org.