From Inlet, paddle upstream for 11.1 miles to reach 15-foot High Falls (approximately 8 hours for most paddlers). There is a 450-foot portage trail on river right that goes around High Falls and leads to 2 campsites and a lean-to. The downsteam return to Inlet will take less time (around 5 hours).
The river here is about 30 feet wide in places and there are a few rapids which are Class II or less. Those that cannot be paddled upstream can be lined from shore. This remote stretch of river has 30 tent sites and 4 lean-tos (2 are at High Falls), so there are plenty of overnight options available.
On July 15, 1995, a violent windstorm blew down thousands of acres of trees in this region. The area has more young forest growth, which benefits of wildlife such as deer and snowshoe hare. You will see signs of this storm on shore, as you paddle this part of the Oswegatchie.
This portion of the Oswegatchie River is entirely in the Five Ponds Wilderness, managed by the NY Department of Environmental Conservation:
Parking and a hand-carry boat launch are available at the end of Inlet Road in the town of Fine. This route is an out-and-back paddle, so no shuttle is necessary.
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