Get set for an exhilarating day of outdoor adventures at Ausable Chasm, a dramatic gorge that’s been sliced out of 500-million-year-old sandstone. Scale vertiginous heights on a rock climb, rappel across the canyon high above the Ausable River and hike through a picturesque landscape.
The geological wonder stretches for approximately 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) and is up to 200 feet (61 meters) deep in places. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the chasm, whether you like to experience your outdoor activities at full throttle or at a more leisurely place.
Ausable Chasm has a network of well-maintained trails. Go hiking on footpaths that skirt the edge of the gorge. Along the way, learn about native flora and fauna by reading the interpretive signs. Rent a bike and cycle along 15 miles (24 kilometers) of trails. There are routes for beginners, intermediates and advanced cyclists.
Travel through the gorge on a raft or inflatable tube that float on the river past towering cliffs and unusual rock formations. Get your adrenaline pumping on a rappelling tour or by rock climbing. Under the supervision of an experienced instructor, scramble up a rock face or rappel across the gorge from a height of 130 feet (39.6 meters) above the river.
There are even more fascinating ways to experience Ausable Chasm. Go on a guided tour of the gorge at night, where the only light is coming off the lanterns that you and your group are holding. Winter tours add another alluring dimension to the gorge when much of the water is frozen and transformed into spectacular ice formations.
This fascinating natural attraction is located just a 5-minute drive outside downtown Keeseville. Stay overnight at the gorge in one of the accommodation options. Rent a log cabin, pitch a tent or park your RV in the campground.
Ausable Charm is open daily throughout the year, except for major holidays with slightly reduced hours during the winter season. There are different entry fees depending on what you see and do. For the up-to-date list, visit the chasm’s official website.
