The Summer Adventures series focuses on affordable summer fun for families in Westchester and the lower Hudson Valley. It’s all about exploring our own backyard and is the perfect resource for planning a killer staycation or finding something awesome to do this weekend. Interested in more local love? Head here.
I’ve been completely obsessed with visiting a waterfall this summer. Maybe it started with our adventure at Croton Gorge Park. The water rushing over the dam is so damn beautiful (see what I did there?). The girls and I were completely entranced by it.
Still, I wanted to feel like we found some hidden gem in the middle of an enchanted forest.
After a couple of friends posted about visiting Indian Brook Falls in Garrison, I knew we had to check it out. Hidden right down the road from Constitution Marsh Audubon Center and Sanctuary, it was everything I had hoped for.
First of all, the falls are tucked away so that you would never know they were there if you weren’t looking for them. You park your car at the designated parking for the marsh (note: there are only eight spots there and cars have been ticketed and towed for parking along Indian Brook Road) and head up the hill in the opposite direction.
From here, I used directions from Half Pint Hikes. You basically keep walking up the road and under the 9D bridge (it’s huge and bright red. You can’t miss it!). Just after the bridge there’s an old gate. Make your way through the weeds and around the gate to the path on the other side (my girls thought this part was awesome). The path will wind you around a cool stone bridge that makes you feel like you’re in a fairy tale. At the end, head to the trail on the left (not back under the bridge). From here, the walk gets a little more difficult. It’s rocky and has some narrow spots and you have to be especially careful after heavy rain.
The water was crystal clear and running slowly when we went, making it perfect for visiting with kids. And there was so much to explore! Next time, we’ll pack a lunch to eat on the rocks while we’re there.
Tips for visiting Indian Brook Falls with kids
Wear good shoes and keep little kids close. While there is a lot of water to wade through, flip flops are not your best option. The end of the path can be tricky. It’s slippery from all of the water and some of the rocks are loose and move as you step on them. It can be tough for real little ones, so use your discretion.
Know that you’re not supposed to swim there. I didn’t realize until we were leaving, but there is a no swimming sign posted on one of the trees there. This Instagram post from Constitution Marsh says that park rangers come by sometimes to enforce the rule.
Bring binoculars! You never know what kind of fun wild life you’ll see.
All in all, this was a really fun adventure. The girls were thrilled to get so close to a waterfall and the setting was magical. Next time, I’m hoping to also check out the marsh!
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Hi! I'm Jen, a freelance writer and girl mom who loves reading the newest children’s books as much as I love a good psychological thriller. I believe fiercely in the power of kindness, empathy, and really good quality chocolate. When I'm not knee-deep in glittery crafts and girl talk, you can probably find me sprawled out on my couch in the middle of a Netflix marathon with dark chocolate smeared on my face. The struggle is real. 
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