This list provides the best Adirondack hikes of varying difficulties and seasons. New York State has beautiful views every season that are definitely worth the trip. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway to clear your mind in nature, the Adirondack mountains are the best place to visit. The Adirondacks have beautiful views all year round and a chance to see New York wildlife in its most natural environment. There are 46 high peaks in this region that offer unmatched views, along with additional mountains throughout.
History
The best Adirondack hikes are just one element of this region, there are over 1,000 named mountains and an abundance of history in the area.
Click here to learn more compelling facts about the Adirondacks.
Preparation
I highly recommend using the app AllTrails, which provides in-depth trail maps and information. Since cell phone service is scarce in this area, downloading a trail map before heading out is a safe way to make sure you stay on the path. AllTrails also provides information about the location of trailheads, which can sometimes be difficult to find. This resource additionally provides up to date reviews on trail conditions and parking fees, so you have an idea of what to expect on your hike.
I am not sponsored I just LOVE this app! AllTrails provides all of the information you need about a specific hike.
Click here to download AllTrails.
It is important to be environmentally conscious and safe when hiking. The Adirondacks is a beautiful area that is protected to remain “forever wild”, so please research the ADK hiking and camping guidelines to keep yourself and nature safe.
Click here to learn more about safe backcountry travel in New York State.
Proper attire and gear is crucial to a safe and happy hike. Be sure to dress for the weather and note that conditions are subject to rapid change at high elevations. Adirondack hiking gives you a little bit of everything from rain, mud, sun, snow, or ice. Pack the right gear to stay comfortable on your journey.
Click here to shop some of my essential hiking gear items.
1. Best Short Hike
Hadley Mountain
At 3.2 miles round trip, Hadley mountain is a perfect trail for a day hike. This mountain is reported to be a moderate hike. On this hike, the peak sits at about 2,651 feet. This trail begins near Stony Creek, NY and offers 360 degree views at the summit. This route also has a fire tower lookout spot to elevate the view. This mountain has encountered forest fires so there is sign of this throughout the trail as nature continues to restore itself. Early spring to late summer is reported to be the best time of year to hike this mountain.
2. Best Long Hike
Mount Marcy
Mount Marcy is one of the best Adirondack hikes overall. This trail is a must-do when visiting the region. The summit sits at 5,343 feet, the highest peak in New York State. At the peak, you are on top of the state, which is an inspiring accomplishment and offers views of the surrounding high peaks. This hike is considered moderately difficult, so trail research is recommended before heading out. There are multiple trails that lead to the summit of Mount Marcy, and can be found on AllTrails with distinct mileage and trail head locations. This mountain offers beautiful views and waterfalls throughout the trip, making the trail just as alluring as the summit.
After various treks to the top of Mount Marcy, I recommend backpacking and camping out to split the trip into multiple days. Camping on this mountain is unmatched to breathe in the mountain air and catch beautiful stargazing opportunities. The New York State website provides information about backcountry camping, so follow the guidelines to keep nature wild and avoid fines and repercussions.
3. Best Mid Range Hike
Lyon Mountain
Lyon Mountain is one of the best Adirondack hikes at the mid range level. Sitting at almost 4,000 feet high, the trail is about 7 miles round trip, offering views of neighboring states at the peak. At the top of Lyon Mountain, you are able to see all the way to Canada in one direction, Vermont in another, and the high peaks mountain range. This hike also features a fire tower at the peak. If you’re looking for a hike that is moderately difficult, not too short and not too long, Lyon Mountain is a must!
4. Best Beginner Hike
Stewart’s Ledge
If you are new to hiking, Stewart’s Ledge is one of the best Adirondack hikes for beginners. This mountain is considered easy hiking, at about 1.5 miles round trip. Shorter hikes are perfect for going slow and appreciating wildlife along the way. It is reported that this trail takes less than an hour to accomplish, making it a short trek with great views of Lake George and the Adirondack mountain range.
5. Best Difficult Hike
Mount Colden
Colden is a unique mountain that neighbors multiple high peaks. Among the 46, Mount Colden is considered a difficult hike at about 13 miles round trip. This peak is a great view from neighboring mountains, featuring a giant rock slide that makes Colden easy to recognize. This is another peak that has multiple trail heads with varying mileage, which can be found on AllTrails. Although difficult, this mountain offers wild views that are worth the trek. Mount Colden is recommended only for experienced hikers due to the nature of difficulty, so it is suggested to work your way up to this one.
6.Best Double Summit
Wright and Algonquin Peak
Rated a difficult hike, this double summit rounds out at about 10 miles in total. On your way to the summit of Algonquin Peak, you pass a short route to the summit of Wright peak. This trail is abundant with wildlife and incredible views. At the summit, you can see the amazing rock slide on Mount Colden. These peaks are great for photography with Colden in the background. The best time of year to trek these peaks is spring to early fall, although the views are great all year round. Both Algonquin and Wright mountain are high peaks, if you’re working toward all 46 this is a great way to knock out two in one trip. The Adirondack Loj is a popular trailhead for multiple mountains, so keep in mind the parking area may be congested.
7. Best Summer Hike
Big Slide Mountain
On a clear summer day, Big Slide Mountain is a must do. Via the three brothers trail, this hike offers views all the way to the peak. This trail is considered a fairly difficult hike, at about 8 miles round trip. Big Slide is number 27 of the 46 high peaks at about 4,300 feet in elevation. This trail features 3 additional peaks along the way, the “brothers”, with views of the range and Big Slide from their vantage points. AllTrails provides information which states that the parking area of Big Slide can fill up quickly, so plan for this if you aim for this trail. Although the summer can be a busier time for the Adirondack mountains, weather obstructions like snow and rain can prevent you from seeing the worthwhile views.
This hike is also perfect in the early fall, where you can catch the leaves changing color across the mountain range. The fall season in the Adirondacks is a must see, no matter which mountain you conquer.
8. Best Winter Hike
Cascade and Porter Mountain
Wintertime in the Adirondacks is unmatched. Fresh snow on the mountain trails is a must see, and snowshoeing is perfect throughout the winter season. Cascade and Porter is one of the best Adirondack hikes especially in winter, because you get to complete two peaks in under 6 miles. Winter hikes can be difficult due to the icy and snowy terrain, and the summit can sometimes be very harsh. This moderate hike offers incredible 360 degree peak views any time of year. If hiking in the winter, be sure to research safe winter hiking practices as it can be dangerous if not prepared. Winter road conditions can also be dicey in the Adirondacks during winter.
Printable Hiking Log
Keeping track of your adventures is easy with a hiking log. This printable hiking log provides space for the name of your hike, mileage, dates, weather conditions, and the initials of your group.
Click here to get your printable hiking log now!
Printable Hike Log
Any hike in the Adirondacks will leave you speechless. This list of the best Adirondack hikes provides some choice picks. The high peak summits are typically alpine areas with fragile endangered plants. Follow all signs and guidelines to keep the Adirondacks forever wild. The alpine plants are extraordinary to see, and worth the journey. If you’re looking for a nature filled relaxing getaway, head to the Adirondacks. This region offers unmatched views and experiences no matter which mountain you conquer!
Comment below a goal hiking destination, or your favorite hike of all time!
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