"Where wilderness meets water"
CLIFTON-FINE
 Oswegatchie River from High Rock |  Camp fire at High Rock |  Group skiiing to High Rock |
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in the heart of the "Five Pond Wilderness Area" lies a rock outcropping that overlooks the almost serpent like "Oswegatchie River", as it snakes ,slithers, and carves it's way through the remote, Adirondack landscape.
High Rock is actually part of the "High Falls Loop Trail", but makes for a great destination, or overnight trip for the entire family all on it's own.
From the trailhead you will be on an old railroad grade. you cross over Skate Creek a couple times and in some instances it can be very wet due to beaver activity in the area. (which in some years is very high).
Eventually, you will come to an area where you can see the "Oswegatchie River" off in the distance through the trees.
High Rock comes soon after with an outstanding overlook above the river. There is also good camping in this location, so enjoy an extra day in the "Five Ponds Wilderness" and explore around.
Trailhead Location:
From the intersection of Route 3 and CR61 (Wanakena Road) follow CR61 and stay straight on the main road to South Shore Road. Follow South Shore Road for around 0.25miles to the trailhead parking on the right. You will have to walk back up the road for a couple hundred feet to the road on the left and walk this to its end, which is about 0.1 miles.
Additional Important Information:
This trail is part of a much longer trail system. In the Winter, snowdrifts often cover the trail making for sporadic conditions in open areas.
In Winter, skiing over a frozen body of water is a cross-country skiing past time; it can access you to areas not seen by most in the summer. With that being said it is a dangerous activity to cross frozen water bodies and should be done with care and respect for your environment. Know the ice conditions and be prepared for anything including heavy winds, snow drifts, whiteouts, slushy conditions, and thin ice.
Trail uses: Hiking, Snowshoeing, XC ski