The untouched wilderness of the Adirondacks is stunning, and there are so many wonderful hikes and scenic areas to check out during your weekend getaway in Upstate, NY. One of our favorite places to visit is Natural Stone Bridge and Caves in Pottersville, NY. Known as one of the most beautiful Adirondack natural wonders, this scenic area encompasses the old Sawmill Site Waterfalls, the Artists’ Gorge, spectacular potholes, and multiple surface caves.
One of the biggest attractions at the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves is witnessing the most significant marble cave entrance on the east coast. As well as crossing over this impressive stone bridge! On a self-guided tour at the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves, you’ll find rustic stone steps (more than 500 stairs) along the trail covering less than a mile, with 20 notable stops, benches, and beautiful sights.Â
Our hotel in the Adirondacks is just about 20 minutes from the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves area. It’s a perfect outing for those joining us for a weekend getaway in Upstate, NY. After you’ve felt the burn from those stone steps, our comfortable accommodations will welcome you back. You’ll have everything you need to relax and refresh in your private guest room. When it’s time for dinner, join us in the Main Dining Room for a delicious farm-to-table meal with a beautiful wine list and craft cocktails. Join us in the Adirondacks this summer and book your room today!Â
Explore the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves
The Adirondacks are known for their sweeping vistas, lush forests, and waterways. The historical geology of the area is fascinating, with some of the oldest rocks dating back to 1.3 billion years ago. The landscape was sculpted during the Ice Age, creating this intricate web of rivers, lakes, and natural stone features.Â
Here’s what to expect on a visit to the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves:Â
- The highlight of any visit to this nature area is the self-guided under-a-mile trail that takes you past the property’s stone bridge, caves, and waterfalls. It generally takes visitors about 45 to 60 minutes to complete. Be sure to sit on one of the benches for a moment to absorb the beautiful sights and sounds of the wilderness.Â
- You’ll pass by about 20 markers with signs and information along the way. Grab a map of the trails at the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves before you set out.
- One of the first stops is the Old Sawmill Site—little remains of the historic landmark, but the cascading falls are a lovely sight, and just around the corner, you’ll glimpse the stone bridge and the cave below.Â
- As you continue along the trail, you’ll discover the largest marble cave entrance in the east, and while these caves don’t offer underground explorations, the expansive opening and waterfalls are impressive. Don’t miss the Lost Pool Cave featuring a picturesque 30-foot-deep pool.Â
- For avid and experienced hikers, your ticket to the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves gives you access to the nearby hiking trails to the top of Catamount Mountain and Green Hill.Â
- On the property, you’ll also find plenty of family-friendly activities, fun souvenirs in the gift shop, and an 18-hole disc golf course for a rousing game pre or post-hike.Â
The Best Weekend Getaway in Upstate NY
There is no better place to stay for a weekend getaway to Upstate NY than Friends Lake Inn. Our luxury hotel in the Adirondacks offers a peaceful, elegant, and nature-focused retreat that is undeniably perfect for couples looking to escape the city for a few days. We have everything you need to enjoy a relaxing weekend away—and you’ll feel the excitement from the moment you start heading toward our woodland paradise.
If there’s one thing our hotel in the Adirondacks does right, it’s reflecting the area’s natural surroundings and creating an oasis for our guests. Our guest rooms are decorated to bring the rustic feel from the outside-in, and this interior design style creates a welcoming and calming atmosphere. When you step outside, you’ll have exclusive access to our curated miles of nature trails for those moments when you need a deep breath of fresh mountain air—which you’ll find at the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves too!Â
Another unique perk of joining us on a weekend getaway in Upstate NY is our on-site dining options. We offer a casual space in the Birch Bistro and a more up-scale dining area in the Main Dining Room. Whichever you prefer, you’ll experience fantastic service and indulge in our wholesome and thoughtfully prepared menu choices; for those heading to the Adirondacks to unwind and destress, having a great place to dine takes a lot of planning off your plate. We can’t wait to host you; reserve your room today!Â