Discover Stone Valley Trail

Running along both sides of the Raquette River, Stone Valley offers miles of moderate trail with views of several waterfalls and emphasis on local history.
TRAIL ACTIVITY
LENGTH
8.00 miles, Network
DIFFICULTY
Easy, Moderate
TOWNS
Colton, Parishville, Pierrepont
SURFACE
Dirt/Forest Floor, Gravel/Crushed Stone, Grass
PETS
Permitted
FEES
No

Description

The Stone Valley Trail is a scenic trail offering great opportunities for waterfall viewing, wildlife watching, and learning about local history. The 8-mile loop parallels the Raquette River, including the dramatic 1.5 mile stretch below the dam in Colton. Along the way, look out for several informational kiosks describing the natural surroundings and the history of the Raquette River.

Multiple iconic North Country waterfalls, including “The Tubbs,” are located along the trail. Most of the larger falls are located along the first 1.5 miles of trail from the southern (Colton) side of the loop. Many hikers opt for this shorter, but very scenic, out-and-back option.

During the summer months, whitewater kayakers can be seen braving the raging rapids through what is known as one of the most technical stretches of river in the Northeast.

 

Other Information

Be cautious, even during low-water periods, unexpected releases from the dam can cause rapidly rising water and potentially dangerous situations. Stay safe by staying on the trail. 

 
This trail is part of the Great 8 Challenge. Learn more!

 

 

 

Trail Manager

The Stone Valley Trail is a cooperative recreational effort funded by Brookfield Renewable Power and coordinated by the Laurentian Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club.

Adirondack Mountain Club - Laurentian Chapter (Stone Valley)

Adirondack Mountain Club - Laurentian Chapter (Stone Valley)
Stone Valley Trail Coordinator
Mark Simon
Phone: 315-262-2571
simonm@potsdam.edu
View website

Nearby Businesses

Trail Tips

Share the Trail
Respect other trail users and be courteous when passing. Limit your group’s noise.
Legend
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Trailhead Information

Northern Trailheads:

The northwest trailhead parking is located before the bridge on Browns Bridge Road, off of NY-56 in Colton. For the northeast entrance, continue on Browns Bridge Road and take a left onto Lenny Road; the parking area is located 0.5 miles on the right. For additional parking on busy days, there is a parking area one mile further on the right.

Southern Trailheads:

The southwest entrance can be found by taking the first left off of Main Street onto River Street in Colton. Parking is located along the road at the intersection. The southeast trail entrance and most popular parking area are located at the end of Riverside Drive, just past the firehouse.

Click on a parking icon to get custom directions
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jjlafave
June 28, 2024
I parked by the power station, and started on the water pipe side. I guess I didn't see the trailhead and wound up walking down an access road by the pipe for about 1.5 miles before I figured out getting through the woods towards the sound of the water got me on the trail. Definitely could use better signage for that starting point.
al_geremia
May 28, 2023
I haven't done 100% of this trail network but i have picked up parts and pieces of it in August 2021! Did this while geocaching than. Great trails and nice area! Some great views of the water. I will be back at somepoint as there is another geocache in the trail network i have to find!
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