If you’re searching for a day hike, it would be difficult to find one that exemplifies the varied topography and sheer beauty of the area more than a climb along the 50-foot Shelving Rock Falls.

Located on the east side of the lake, it’s easily accessible by boat or by car.

Usually, the falls are reached by the roadway, but to get the full Lake George experience, you should begin the hike in Log Bay.

A short, 2.5-mile canoe or kayak paddle from the Lake George Kayak Company on Green Island makes the trip just long enough to enjoy the splendor of the water.

Log Bay is directly across the lake from the Sagamore.  At the north end of the bay, you’ll find picnic tables where you can enjoy a nice lunch and store your boats. From there, you’ll embark upon a 1.5-mile hike to the falls.

Following the old carriage road, you’ll proceed south along the lake and come to a wooden bridge. After crossing the bridge, there are several footpaths meandering up the incline away from the lake.

Keeping to the stream crossed by the bridge, follow any of the footpaths up to the falls.

If you’re feeling adventurous, walk up the stream, where there are a few spots where you can stop and swim. But be forewarned: the rocks are slippery.

Once you’ve walked for about ten or fifteen minutes, the woods open up and you’re at the base of these splendid falls.

The water here is usually chillier than in the lake, so it’s the perfect place to cool off after the hike.

Trails lead to the top, but if you climb up the waterfall, you’ll find a naturally formed mountain pool called the Giant’s Bowl. Sitting in the bowl, you can enjoy a shower-like sensation as the waters cascade from the falls.

Although this trip does not yield spectacular views, the paddle across the lake and the hike up to the falls can be enjoyed by practically everyone, no matter what the level of their skills, and is a perfect introduction to the beauties of Lake George.