John Boyd Thacher State Park
This is such a great state park, and we were really surprised that we hadn’t heard about it before. As a scenic area we thought it was one of the best. There is no swimming on this hike, but there is camping and swimming at Thompson Lake State Park, which is part of the same preserve.
Park in the Mine Lot (or Minelot) Creek parking lot and follow the paved trail to the fence, and then down a very steep set of stairs. This trail is also called Indian Ladder. There was no fee at this lot, and this route allows you to hike a loop that ends in the main parking lot a little up the road, and you can walk back along the road to get back to your car. Taking this direction means you’ll go down the steepest part of the trail, and up the more gradual climb.
There are two waterfalls massive waterfalls on this loop, Mine Lot and Outlet Creek. They fall off of a high ridge above the trail, and the path leads beneath them. We couldn’t get many pictures of the second fall because the mist was soaking our camera, and you should be prepared to get a little wet on this trail. Absolutely beautiful rock formations and vistas, and lots of small falls flowing from under the rocks along the way. There is often no guardrail and at one point the trail goes under a huge over hang and you have to stoop. Even so, this trail is moderate with the steps up and down being the hardest part. No swimming, but there are tiny falls you can sort of “shower” in.
Facilities are at the main parking lot.
Location Details
- 40-50 min. loop
- +42 39.157, -74 00.883
- Moderate to Difficult
- (518) 872-1237
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