Climbing at Salmon River Gorge

The definitive repository of photographs and the guidebook to Salmon River Gorge can be found at Jim Lawyer's Site.

Pictures from previous trips

• 31 January 2009
• 16 February 2008
• 4 February 2007
• 4 March 2006
• 6 March 2005

Recommended gear list for Salmon Day Climbing

• harness
• "belay kit" (locking biner and belay device)
• plastic boots suitable for crampons
• crampons
• helmet

Appropriate winter wear -- climbers will be outside all day long in winter conditions with the possibility of wind. We suggest the gear below, but generally insist on the winter no cotton rule. That means, no cotton shirts, no cotton pants (this means no jeans). Cotton gets wet, stays wet, and has little to no insulating value when it gets that way. Wear wool and synthetics.

• base thermal layer of polypro or polyester thermal underwear, bottom and top
• fleece or wool insulating layer(s) that can be removed or unzipped for flexibility.
• windproof and waterproof outer shells
• two pairs wool socks
• insulating hat/cap/scarf or balaclava
• insulated waterproof or water resistant gloves or mitts.

• water bottle -- we'll be out all day long and will get thirsty.
• bag lunch and snacks to share -- food and services are not available locally.
• (optional) small backpack to keep your extra layers and lunch in.

Salmon River Amphitheatre

Map of Salmon River Falls

Directions to Salmon River Falls

The following paragraph is excerpted verbatim from Jim Lawyer's Salmon guidebook as mentioned above. Thanks, Jim, for discovering, opening, and documenting this wonderful location.

"From Syracuse and points south, go north on Interstate 81, getting off at exit 34 (the exit for Mexico). Turn right onto route 104. Follow 104 east for several miles and turn left (north) onto route 22 (following signs to the Salmon River Fish Hatchery), and follow into Altmar. Turn right onto route 13, go about 100 yards and turn left (just after the Citgo station) onto route 22 (also marked “Cemetery Street”), again following signs to the Salmon River Fish Hatchery. At the stop sign, continue straight on route 22 and past the Salmon River Fish Hatchery. After several miles, Falls Road intersects from the right (just after Wooliver Road). Turn right onto Falls Road and go a couple miles to the DEC parking area on the right."

-- DonBarry - 03 Mar 2008