Artist's Falls

Artist's Falls

Though the Hudson Valley has not had much of a winter, some of the creeks and ponds have begun to freeze.  I wanted a waterfall to photograph on a weekly basis to capture the changes.  I could not think of one close by.  Last weekend my friend Pat went to Artist's Falls located in Round Top.  So I thought that would be a good one if there were not any access issues.

Artist's Falls are not located on public land.  They are located on the grounds of the Winter Clove Inn.  I parked my vehicle across from the main building.  I went inside to ask for permission but nobody answered my calls.  I proceeded to the Falls assuming there would be no problem.

The waterfall is located nearby the Inn.  After following a path for a few hundred feet that enters the woods near the entrance, I came a cross a covered bridge.  This bridge rests directly above the waterfall.  It's quite small and most likely built for the Inn's guests.

Apparently Stoppel Point can be reached from here

Covered Bridge

After wandering around a bit, I proceeded to find a way down to the bottom of the falls.  There was a path that skirted its way down.  It is quite steep on all sides, but the path is easy to negotiate.  The waterfall is about 15 feet high and it's a flume type waterfall.  It reminds me of a smaller version of Fawn's Leap.  There is quite a bit of ice that the waterfall rushes on top of.  I'm guessing a couple more weeks of freezing temps will freeze it entirely.    

Lots of ice

   As I walked back, a truck passed by that had the Winter Clove Inn logo on it.   I tried to wave it down, but the driver appeared to have no problem with my presence.  I will continue to seek permission each time I go.

Catskill Creek near Cairo with Blackhead in the distance