Moss Island: Upstate New York's Hidden Treasure

If you are planning a trip to or through upstate New York, there's a unique place that has to be seen to be believed. The National Natural Landmark, Moss Island, along the Erie Canal in Little Falls, New York, is a place of uncommon beauty; the gigantic "glacial potholes" along the outer edges are amazing rock formations-towering, deep, cavernous.

Along with the potholes, there are many other features. Just getting to the island is simple, but an adventure in itself. Walking a short distance from a parking area, you'll find a lock-Lock 17, one of the largest in the world. If you're lucky, you'll be able to watch the opening and closing, allowing passenger and other boats to pass through.

Along the opposite side, is a very popular cliff face for rock climbers. A short distance from the cliff face is a historical marker, which marks the beginning of the trails. According to its text, the rock that comprises Moss Island is some of the most ancient in the world.

The island is a perfect for nature photography opportunities, picnics (there's a table at the beginning of the trail, and several places on the island that would make lovely picnicking areas,) and anything from a casual walk to all-out recreation. Very near the island, there are also bicycle, and walking/exercise trails.

The island is lined with easy trails that are suitable for even small children. Nicely too, it isn't bustling with hikers and tourists. We visited on Memorial Day weekend, which is a notoriously busy day for outdoor natural venues-and although there were several parties of rock climbers along the main cliff face, we only ran into one couple on the island itself.

Little Falls, located in upstate New York's scenic Mohawk River Valley, is located between halfway between Albany and Syracuse, on the toll free State Rt. 5, and along the New York State Thruway Interstate 90 at interchange 29A.

Aside from the attraction of Moss Island, Little Falls is a great place to stop while traveling. For the best French fries (seriously--the best!) in upstate New York, stop at Kristen's Cafe. Grab some natural snacks and products at the Community Co-op, or, even to take in a first run film at the quaintly 1970s-retro-non-megaplex Valley Cinema.

Below is the contact information for all the above mentioned attractions.

Moss Island Information and climbing permits: M-F 823-2400, weekends (315)823-1122

Kristen's Cafe: Open until 2:00, 28 West Main Street, (315)823-4354

Community Co-op: 589 Albany Street (315) 823-0686

Valley Cinema 1&2: 20 Albany Street, (315)823-1324

Sources:
Little Falls, Ny area Business Directory, http://www.littlefallsny.com/BusDir/Directory.htm