Hiking to the fire tower on Vanderwhacker Mountain rewards with views to the north of the High Peaks, the Boreas River Valley, and the smaller peaks in all other directions.

Key takeaways

• Distance: (from the trailhead) 2.7 miles, one way
• Elevation gain: 1,700 feet
• Mountain Elevation: 3,325 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions

Hiking Vanderwhacker Mountain

From the trailhead (where there are a few tent sites nearby), you will hike on a moderate trail with slight elevation change. The trail can be wet at times, with some small creek crossings. About half way to the top, a snowmobile trail will come in on the left. At around 1.5 miles from the trailhead, you will come to the old observer's cabins. From here the trail gets quite steep with much of the elevation remaining. It will level out again to a more moderate hike as it approaches the fire tower.

Vanderwhacker Mountain in the winter

Winter means the summit is thick with tall firs and birches, covered with snow, but there are fine views from the cab of the fire tower. Take care on the steps, as they are exposed and can be slippery. Please remove spikes or snowshoes before climbing the tower in the winter as traction devices can damage the steps. Due to steepness of the final push, skiing is not recommended. In the winter, it is recommended to park at the beginning of the road, and not at the official trailhead, This will add 2 miles and 200 feet of elevation gain round trip. Being prepared is necessary for any winter hike.

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Vanderwhacker sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With the Adirondack Hub being at the center of so many trails, we’re sure to find the best hike for you!

How to get there

From exit 28 in Schroon Lake, follow I-87 north for one exit to the North Hudson exit, #29. From here follow Boreas Road west toward Newcomb. Continue all the way to Newcomb and Route 28N. Take a left onto 28N and continue for just under 6 miles to the access road for Vanderwhacker Mountain on the right, just before the crossing of the Boreas River. Follow this road for 2.6 miles to the trailhead. The access road is dirt and very rough. OK for low clearance vehicles but take it very slow.

Looking for a backcountry pond that doesn't require a lot of work to get to? If so, Cheney Pond is perfect for you! It's all peaceful wild forest and beautiful scenery. Visitors in any season can enjoy a variety of activities, including: hiking, fishing, paddling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and camping. Make Cheney Pond your destination for the day, or combine it with a longer hike for more time on the trail.

How to get there

To get here, follow Blue Ridge Road (County Road 84) toward Newcomb from Exit 29 off I-87. It is 13.4 mile to the trailhead parking area on the left. The "trail" to Cheney Pond follows an old access road, and while travel is permitted, it it not recommended. At first, the access road appears to be a fine gravel road, but soon deteriorates with washouts, ruts, and extremely muddy sections. No worries though; it's only about a half mile walk to the pond with minimal elevation change.

By the numbers

• Round trip distance: about 1 mile
• Elevation loss: about 150 feet 

Hiking

Follow the old access road turned into an easy trail to a camping, picnic, and launch area at the pond. The hike is quite easy and all downhill to the pond. The wide trail is colorful in wildflower season. You will pass by an intersection with the trail to Lester Dam at 0.4 miles. Turn left here and the pond is 500 feet away. 

Fishing

Trout can be easily fished from shore and the bullheads tend to bite all day. There is a shallow bay on the north side of the pond, which is a nice location for panfish and floating a bobber for brookies. Fish species include: brook trout, bullhead, panfish, brown trout, and smallmouth bass. There are plenty of grassy areas where bass are said to hide.

Paddling

This lovely little pond is part of the Lester Flow. This is a hand launch only. Canoes and kayaks will likely need to be wheeled or carried the half mile to the pond.

Snowshoeing

Since it is not that long of a trail, this makes for a great snowshoe for beginners or even an excellent place to stretch your legs before a more rigorous adventure. Snowshoeing over a frozen body of water is a winter past time; it can access you to areas not seen by most in the summer. With that being said, it can be a dangerous activity to cross frozen waterbodies and should be done with care and respect for your environment. Know the ice conditions and be prepared for anything, including heavy winds, snow drifts, whiteouts, slushy conditions, and thin ice. 

Cross-country skiing

From the parking to the pond, it is all downhill, so it will be an exciting ski to your destination! Skiing over a frozen body of water is a cross-country skiing past time; it can access you to areas not seen by most in the summer. With that being said it is a dangerous activity to cross frozen water bodies and should be done with care and respect for your environment. Know the ice conditions and be prepared for anything including heavy winds, snow drifts, whiteouts, slushy conditions, and thin ice.

Camping

There is a large camping area on the pond, including a lean-to! This is a great choice for those looking to try winter camping. It's remote, yet only a little over a mile round trip to the car parked at the trailhead.

Hiking to the top of Mount Severance (also known as Severance Hill) offers views of Schroon Lake and Pharaoh Mountain. There aren't many marked trails in the Hoffman Notch Wilderness Area, so take advantage of this one.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 2.4 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 750 feet
• Mountain elevation: 1,693 feet

Hiking Mount Severance

After leaving the parking lot, the trail first passes under the Northway via two culverts and soon begins a steady, moderate climb before leveling off just before some plank bridges at 0.6 miles. Soon resuming the climb, the trail reaches the mostly wooded summit at 1.2 miles. The first ledge offers views of Schroon Lake and Pharaoh Mountain, while a second view adds in Paradox Lake. 

Mount Severance in the winter

This is a good snowshoeing option for beginners with a bit of experience. The trail is not recommended for cross-country skiing. Being prepared is necessary for any winter hike, make sure to bring your microspikes and snowshoes, along with all other winter hiking essentials.

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Looking for another hike? With the Adirondack Hub being at the center of so many trails, we’re sure to find another adventurous hike for you!

How to get there

The trailhead is located on the west side of Route 9, 0.6 mi. south of the junction of Routes 9 and 74 off Exit 28 on I-87, the Adirondack Northway. There are two parking areas marked by a large brown and yellow sign.

For a mellow hike in the wilderness, it doesn't get much better than this!

Getting there

From the intersection of Hoffman Road (County Route 24) and Route 9, follow Hoffman Road. Continue for 2.5 miles or so to the trailhead parking on the right. The trailhead has parking for several cars. The trail is on the left of the parking lot.  

By the numbers

• Elevation: 1,281 feet
• Ascent: 75 feet
• Distance: 1.5 miles to the pond

Hiking

This trail maintains an easy grade with very little change in elevation. It's mainly on a wide course through the forest but will get slightly narrower in spots.

Leaving the trailhead, the path soon drops slightly to a bridge near the outlet of a narrow pond. This narrow pond does not have a name, but it could be considered South Big Pond. The trail climbs gently from here. Big Pond is slightly off the main trail, but it can easily be seen through the trees to the left. A path will lead the 100 feet downhill to the shore, where there are outstanding vistas. The trail continues straight and connects to the Hoffman Notch Trail. 

In winter ...

This trail is also perfect in winter for snowshoeing and for a more adventurous skier!

Hiking New York's 25th tallest peak

Mount Marshall is the 25th tallest of the Adirondack High Peaks. It is a steep, serious hike that requires significant preparation and navigational skill. A successful hike of Mount Marshall involves research, physical fitness, the right gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles. 

Marshall was named to honor Robert Marshall who, with his brother George, is one of the original ADK 46ers. 

Key takeaways

• Distance: 13 miles round trip
• Elevation: 4,360 feet
• Elevation gain: 2,515 feet
• Hike involves unmarked trails, water crossings, and trail junctions
• Based on a hike from the Upper Works trailhead

Hiking Marshall from Upper Works

There are two herd paths that lead to the summit of Mount Marshall, the route below describes a hike of Marshall via the Herbert Brook herd path from Upper Works. There is also the option of hiking Marshall via the Adirondack Loj, which is a longer hike with more elevation gain. Please be aware that for most of this hike you will be on a marked trail, but the final ascent to the summit will be on an unmarked path. There are many worn paths around Marshall; it's critical you know which one to follow, and do your research before you go.

From the Upper Works parking area and historic MacNaughton Cottage, follow a long and somewhat flat approach which initially starts along an old woods road. As the route narrows back to a foot trail you will follow along some attractive waterways and eventually climb modestly to the shore of Flowed Lands. From Flowed Lands you will hike its perimeter along a difficult trail to the herd-path along Herbert Brook; a cairn marks the herd-path on your left after crossing a small stream. The route is now much narrower and follows along the brook to your left. The terrain starts out moderate with a couple steep ascent sections, and soon you will be crossing the brook several times. Once the herd-path leaves the brook, the terrain steepens. There is one excellent viewing area along the summit ridge before you reach the treed summit to your left.

*Another way to reach Mount Marshall from the Adirondack Loj is via Cold Brook Pass.If you are interested in taking this route, particularly to view the historic plane wreckage, do your research and consult with the experienced staff at the High Peaks Information Center. 

Marshall in the winter

Mount Marshall is a challenging mountain that should only be attempted by experienced hikers, especially in winter, so make sure you are prepared. Snowshoes are necessary, and snow spikes are needed to climb the upper reaches of the peak and around the icy sections by the brook. Plan on temperatures in the higher elevations being at least 20 degrees colder than at the trailhead, not including the windchill. Bring several extra non-cotton layers, a headlamp with spare batteries, extra food, a windbreaker, goggles, a face mask, and supplies for spending the night in case of an emergency. You will cross Herbert Brook several times. These crossings can be especially dangerous during the beginning and end of winter. Always use caution at water crossings. Turning around is always an option. 

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Marshall sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With the Adirondack Hub being at the center of so many trails, we’re sure to find the best hike for you!

How to get there

From exit 29 off I-87, turn west onto Blue Ridge Road (CR 84) toward Newcomb. Follow this route for 17.4 miles to an intersection with Tahawus Road (CR 25). Turn right on Tahawus Road and stay on it for 6.3 miles then turn left at a sign for High Peaks trails. Pass by the old blast furnace at 2.8 miles up this road. From the blast furnace, it is less than one mile to your destination. The road dead ends at the Upper Works parking lot. From here, you can follow the marked trail to Flowed Lands, eventually picking up the herd path to Mount Marshall.

This short hike ends at a particularly scenic pond. On the northeastern side of the pond is a long finger created by a beaver dam and on the north end of the pond is an attractive wetland where birding could be quite good. There is the option to explore the second pond on an unmarked trail.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 2.2 miles round trip for both ponds, 0.8 miles for Rankin
• Elevation gain: 280 feet round trip for both ponds
• Hike includes unmarked trail

Hiking to Rankin and Little Rankin Ponds

From the parking area cross the road carefully and quickly, as the trailhead is located on a corner where traffic tends to move quickly. Once at the trailhead, you will sign into the trail register and follow the trail behind the register, not the old road to the right. The trail is marked with blue disks. Along the 0.4 mile trail (one way) there is a sweep around a small knob on your right known as Crusher Hill, while not changing much in elevation. There is a slight descent at the end to reach the eastern shore of Rankin Pond.

If you wish to continue to Little Rankin Pond be aware that there is no marked trail or designated route to reach the small back-county body of water. Map and compass and GPS knowledge is highly recommended. Not recommended for inexperienced hikers or children. To continue on to Little Rankin Pond, locate a herd path to your right from the end of Rankin Pond Trail. This anglers herd path is very faint and blowdown does cover it in spots. This herd path will bring you to another small spot with a great view of the pond. The herd path from here starts to become much less apparent and eventually disappears, but keep the pond to your left and continue down the finger to a beaver dam crossing.

Once you cross the beaver dam you will need to make your way through a somewhat open forest and head northwest, keeping the slopes of Rankin Pond Mountain to your right. Remain in the valley. Little Rankin Pond is a quaint little pond with a faint trail, but gives a nice, backcountry, secluded feel.

Rankin and Little Rankin Ponds in the winter

From the parking area which should be plowed out regularly, you will need to cross the road to access the trail. This trail is a good, mellow introduction to snowshoeing to the first pond. Only experienced hikers should attempt to reach the farther pond. Be prepared for all winter conditions.

Birding

Most of these species are found during the migration and breeding season. This is considered a lowland boreal forest, with species like Black-backed Woodpecker, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Boreal Chickadee, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Cape May Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, and Pine Siskin.

Paddling

At the trailhead there is room for one car to unload a car-top boat, but park across the road (north via a slight curve) at the designated parking area. The trail is narrow, but overall fairly easy with a brief, somewhat steep, drop near the end. This trail is not the best option for a cart; it is recommended that you use a boat that you can carry.

Once on the pond you will have a wonderful secluded paddle, and most likely to yourself. The shoreline length is approximately one mile and the water is well-sheltered/mostly calm.

Fishing

There is a deep area good for brook trout, and only accessible by boat. As a result, there's not much angler competition. There is a limited amount of shoreline fishing but it’s decent in a few spots. At the end of the trail which is 0.4 miles from the parking area and slightly further along the shore on the east side via a short herd path. At the deepest it is around 20 feet, but the best fishing is had from the deeper portion and the finger on the NE side, which is accessed best by boat.

Fish species: brook trout, bullhead

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Do the Rankin Ponds sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With the Adirondack Hub being at the center of so many trails, we’re sure to find the best hike for you!

How to get there

From exit 28 in Schroon Lake, follow I-87 north for one exit to the North Hudson Exit 29. From here follow Boreas Road west toward Newcomb. Continue to Route 28N and take a left and head toward Minerva. Continue for just under 10 miles to the trailhead on the right, parking is on the left just prior to the trailhead.

By summer, it's a beautiful golf course. By winter, it becomes a lovely place to cross-country ski and snowshoe right in town. Enjoy the gentle slopes!

Goodnow is a very prominent peak when seen from Route 28N. This ragged-looking mountain is home to one of the remaining fire towers in the Adirondacks.

From the restored fire tower (originally built in 1922), excellent views of the High Peaks can be had. A map, used by former firetower observers to locate forest fires, will give you a better understanding of your surroundings while in the tower. And it’s a cool piece of history!

The trail to Goodnow is on private land owned by the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF). ESF staff and students continue to maintain the tower and trail. Please be respectful of their work and the environment. 

Key takeaways

• Distance: 4 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 1,075 feet
• Mountain elevation: 2,664 feet

Hiking Goodnow Mountain

As you move along, the trail climbs steady to moderate for about 1 mile. A small brook is passed at 0.5 miles from the trailhead. At 0.9 miles, the trail swings very sharply to the left, where it descends momentarily before resuming the climb. At 1.4 miles a concrete platform is reached. These are the remnants of a State Police radio repeating station.

Soon after, you’ll reach an old horse barn that dates to the early 1900s. The trail becomes rockier and steeper, and you’ll notice the trees changing from hardwood to spruce and balsam. Just before the summit, at 1.8 miles, there is a small open rock that provides a view. The summit and fire tower is reached at 2 miles. 

The fire tower is 60-feet tall, making it one of the tallest in the Adirondacks. There are some views on ground level but the best are seen from the tower. You can even look straight down onto the roof of the old fire tower observer’s cabin, which sits just below the fire tower.

Goodnow in winter

This trail is not recommended for cross-country skiing, but does make for an enjoyable snowshoe. At the fire tower, be extra careful in the winter, as the tower stairs can be very slippery and dangerous. Expect high winds and a serious wind chill from the tower. This trail is heavily used and typically gets broken out relatively fast after a snow storm. 

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Goodnow sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With the Adirondack Hub being at the center of so many trails, we’re sure to find the best hike for you!

How to get there

Take exit 29 from Interstate 87 and head west on Blue Ridge Road, toward Newcomb. After about 18.5 miles, turn right on Route 28N and follow that for about 9 miles as it goes through Newcomb. The large parking area is on the left, about 1.5 miles after the Adirondack Interpretive Center.

Hiking New York's 44th highest mountain

Cliff Mountain is one of the most challenging High Peaks, with a hike up the cliff face that is extremely steep and in many situations slippery. While, due to tradition, this is a 46er peak, it does not crest 4000’ in elevation. Cliff is often climbed with in conjunction with Mount Redfield. Cliff is a long, serious hike that requires significant preparation. A successful hike involves research, physical fitness, the right gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 15.5 miles round trip
• Elevation: 3960 feet
• Elevation gain: 3,450 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions, unmarked trail, bridges, and ladders
• Based on an out and back ascent from the Adirondack Loj via Lake Arnold

Hiking Cliff via Calamity Brook

Cliff is often climbed with Mount Redfield. Below is a description of the approach via Upper Works and the Calamity Brook Trail. Cliff via the Adirondack Loj is the other main way to approach this mountain.

From the Upper Works parking area and historic MacNaughton Cottage, follow a long and somewhat flat approach which initially starts along an old woods road. As the route narrows back to a foot trail you will follow along some attractive waterways and eventually climb modestly to the shore of Flowed Lands. You'll hand left around Flowed Lands, and in around 1 mile you'll cross Lake Colden and the dam. From there head towards Uphill lean-to. Once you reach this area you will see a small cairn on the right side which marks the start of the trail from Redfield and Cliff.

The Cliff Route is slightly up the joined herd-path and leaves right. If you decide to include Redfield on your hike, it will tack on 2.4 miles and 1,300 feet of elevation gain round trip.

After navigating through the muck and mire to the base of the cliff, take care going up the steep rock. Once over the cliffs, don’t be fooled into stopping at the next highest point, this is a false summit. Drop a bit and finish the climb to the true summit (with a wooden sign). Views are a bit lacking from the summit, so take in the nice ones along the steep climb.

Cliff Mountain in the winter

Cliff is a challenging mountain that should only be attempted by experienced hikers, especially in winter, so make sure you are prepared. Snowshoes are necessary, and microspikes or crampons are needed to climb the steep cliffs on Cliff. Plan on temperatures in the higher elevations being at least 20 degrees colder than at the trailhead, not including the windchill. Bring several extra non-cotton layers, a headlamp with spare batteries, extra food, a windbreaker, goggles, a face mask, and supplies for spending the night in case of an emergency. The water crossings on the hike can be especially dangerous during the beginning and end of winter. Always use caution at water crossings. Turning around is always an option. Only cross Flowed Lands when conditions dictate. 

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Cliff sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With the Adirondack Hub being at the center of so many trails, we’re sure to find the best hike for you!

How to get there

From exit 29 off I-87, turn west onto Blue Ridge Road (CR 84) toward Newcomb. Follow this route for 17.4 miles to an intersection with Tahawus Road (CR 25). Turn right on Tahawus Road and stay on it for 6.3 miles then turn left at a sign for High Peaks trails. Pass by the old blast furnace at 2.8 miles up this road. From the blast furnace, it is less than one mile to your destination. The road dead ends at the Upper Works parking lot.

Hiking New York state's 45th highest peak

Blake Peak, while one of the shorter Adirondack High Peaks, is still a serious undertaking with significant elevation gain and mileage. A successful ascent of Blake requires research, prior experience hiking in the High Peaks, physical fitness, proper gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles. 

Key takeaways

• Elevation: 3,960 feet
• Elevation gain: 5,200 feet round trip
• Distance: 8.7 miles (17.5 miles round trip)
• Hike includes multiple water crossings, steep ladders, steep rocky sections, and trail junctions
• Based on the approach from Elk Lake

Hiking Blake Peak from Elk Lake

The approach described here is not the typical way to hike Blake. It involves more miles hiked and more elevation gain than the approach from the AMR. If you are looking for the most popular way up Blake, check out the approach from the AMR over Colvin.

The trail starts across from the parking area at the Elk Lake Trailhead, which leads to Panther Gorge and Mount Marcy. You will drop to cross The Branch before starting a flat approach to the beginning of a wet hike to the shoulder of Pinnacle Ridge, reahed at 3.5 miles. A couple more small ups and downs, then you drop slightly to the Pinnacle Ridge Trail on your right. From this point the trail is very demanding and encompasses several smaller peaks with no official names. After 6.6 total miles, you'll reach a spur trail that leads right to the summit of Pinnacle, which has some views of Elk Lake. Turning left at this junction marks the start of the bumpy ridge to Blake. If you have the option of a second car, and can leave it at the AMR trailhead, that is recommended as it saves you mileage and elevation gain. If you cannot do this, once the summit of Blake is reached at roughly 8.7 miles in (which is wooded), you will have to go back the way you came up. 

Keep in mind, there is also no water along the Pinnacle Ridge. Being a long day, bring a water filter, and fill up before you start the serious ascent up Blake.

Blake Peak in the winter

Blake is a challenging peak in the winter, and best approached via the AMR. Approaching via Elk Lake is not recommended in the winter, unless you are an experienced hiker. In the winter, plan for an extra 3.5 miles round trip due to the gate at Clear Pond being closed, which accesses Elk Lake. Be prepared with microspikes, crampons, and snowshoes. 

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Blake sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With the Adirondack Hub being at the center of so many trails, we’re sure to find the best hike for you!

How to get there

Elk Lake Trailhead: Leave Lake Placid following Rte 73 to Interstate 87. Get off at exit 29 and follow the Blue Ridge Road toward Newcomb. Look for Elk Lake Road on the right in about 4-5 miles; follow it to its end.