Hiking New York's 39th tallest mountain

Colvin is the 39th tallest of the Adirondack 46 High Peaks. It is a steep, serious hike that requires significant preparation. A successful hike of Mount Colvin involves research, physical fitness, the right gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles. Colvin was named after Verplanck Colvin, the great surveyor of the Adirondack Park, and is often climbed with Blake Peak.

SPECIAL INFORMATION

This hike is accessed through a conservation easement with the Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR). A parking reservation is needed from May 1 - October 31. Although it is called a “parking reservation,” everyone will need a reservation to access hikes leaving from AMR, whether you drove yourself, rode a bike, got dropped-off, or walked. These reservations can be made online via the AMR website. For more information, please read these FAQs or contact the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Key takeaways

• Elevation: 4,507 feet
• Elevation gain: 6,400 feet
• Distance: 20 miles round trip
• Hike includes trail junctions, steep rock slab, and ladders

Hiking Colvin

The primary way to hike Colvin is via the AMR. Hiking via Elk Lake, described below, is seldom done. It is a strenuous hike with serious elevation gain that leads over Pinnacle Ridge and Blake.

Starting along the trail to Panther Gorge and Mount Marcy from Elk Lake you will drop to cross The Branch. After that, you'll start a flat approach to the beginning of a wet hike to the shoulder of the Pinnacle Ridge. At around 3.7 miles there is a newer lean-to. Drop down to the Pinnacle Ridge Trail. From this point the trail, after a flat section, is very demanding and encompasses several smaller peaks with no official names. There is a spur trail to the summit of Pinnacle, which is recommended for outstanding views. Blake will be at the end of the ridge.

From Blake you drop down very steeply through a highly eroded area where footing is difficult. From the col you will pass the trail down to Warden's Camp, and then start an equally steep ascent up Colvin. There are a couple excellent viewing areas along the ridge to enjoy along the way. It is recommended to continue the traverse over Colvin and out to the AMR and a second car. Unless an overnight is planned this round-trip outing would be too demanding for most hikers. 

Colvin in the winter

It is recommended to hike Colvin via the AMR in the winter, as this way in the winter will be unbroken and sees very little traffic.

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Colvin 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

Get off at exit 29 on the Northway 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.

Hiking New York's 26th tallest mountain

Allen Mountain is a long, steep, and serious hike that requires significant preparation. A successful hike of Allen involves research, physical fitness, the right gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles. 

Key takeaways

• Elevation: 4,340 feet
• Elevation gain: 3,700 feet
• Distance: 18 miles, roundtrip
• Hike includes water crossings, unmarked trail, steep rock slab, bridge, and trail junctions

Hiking Allen Mountain

From the trailhead you will descend a bit to a bridge crossing of the Hudson River. After a short walk through an attractive forest you will come to Lake Jimmy and a sharp left turn for a new bypass that avoids the not-so-good floating bridge. Much of the hike will bring you along a state trail that follows not only foot trails but old woods roads and even a gravel road or two. The bridge over the Opalescent River was destroyed in a storm in October 2019. At this time, there is no plan to replace it.

At 5 miles go right on an obvious, but unmarked, trail. As you approach the top and start following Allen Brook the terrain gets much steeper. Along Allen Brook there is a slide that can be climbed, but care is needed as it is very slippery – a rough herd path on the side will avoid the exposed rock. The summit is treed but off to the side there is an opening or two to take in excellent views of the area.

Allen Mountain in the winter

Allen 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 or crampons are needed to climb the steep upper sections of the peak. 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. Crossing the Opalescent River can be extremely dangerous in the winter. Do your research, and do not attempt to cross during the beginning or end of winter, or after warm weather. Always use caution at water crossings. Turning around is always an option. 

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Allen Mountain 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

Use the North Hudson exit on the I-87 (exit 29) and follow the Blue Ridge Road (CR 84) toward Newcomb. Continue for roughly 18 miles to the Tahawus Road (CR25) on the right. Follow this road for 6.3 miles and then left at a junction for another 3 miles to a trailhead on the right.

Hiking New York's 15th highest peak

Redfield is the 15th tallest of the Adirondack 46 High Peaks. It is a long, serious hike that requires significant preparation. A successful hike of Mount Redfield involves research, physical fitness, the right gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles.

Redfield was named for Professor William C. Redfield: meteorologist, organizer of, and participant in, the first recorded ascent of Mount Marcy.

Key takeaways

• Elevation: 4,606 feet
• Distance: 16.8 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 3,400 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions, unmarked trail, bridges, and ladders
• Based on an out and back ascent from Upper Works via the Calamity Brook Trail

Hiking Redfield via Calamity Brook

Mount Redfield is often climbed with Cliff Mountain. Below is a description of the approach via Upper Works and the Calamity Brook Trail. Redfield 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. Follow this trail to a second cairn.

The Redfield route is the main one and continues straight, right goes to Cliff. If you choose to tack on Cliff, expect to add 1.8 miles and 875 feet of elevation gain round trip.  From here you will hike along a gorgeous brook and at times in it. Be sure to take time to look back every now and then to enjoy the views as they open up. There are many attractive small waterfalls along the way as well. The summit of Redfield is a large boulder, offering nice views.

Redfield in the winter

Redfield 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 some of the steeper sections, particularly if you add on Cliff Mountain. 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. 

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Redfield 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's 7th tallest peak

Gray Peak is the 7th tallest of the Adirondack High Peaks. It is a steep, long, and serious hike that requires significant preparation. A successful hike of Gray involves research, physical fitness, the right gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles. 

Key takeaways

• Distance: 18 miles round trip
• Elevation: 4,480 feet
• Elevation gain: 3,655 feet
• Based on hiking from Upper Works
• Hike includes steep rock slab, trail junctions, and unmarked trail

Hiking Gray Peak

Gray sits right off the west shoulder of Mount Marcy, and can be approached from a few different directions. A hike of Gray via the Adirondack Loj is also a typical way to summit Gray Peak, by climbing over Mount Marcy and descending to Four Corners. There are great camping opportunities at Uphill and Feldspar lean-tos if you wanted to make a weekend of the hike. Described below is the hike from Upper Works.

From Upper Works follow the trail to Flowed Lands and Lake Colden. The trails around Flowed Lands and Lake Colden have ups and downs, which will slow you down a little as you climb over boulders. Continue past Uphill lean-to, and just before reaching Feldspar lean-to, continue a steady hike up towards Lake Tear of the Clouds and Four Corners. A couple hundred feet before Lake Tear of the Clouds will be an obvious, yet unmarked, trail that leads for just under a half mile to the mostly-treed summit of Gray. 

Gray Peak in the winter

Gray Peak 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 or crampons are needed to climb some of the steeper sections of the peak. 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.

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Gray Peak 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's 6th highest peak

Dix Mountain is the 6th tallest Adirondack High Peak. It is a steep, exposed, and serious hike that requires significant preparation. A successful hike of Dix Mountain involves research, physical fitness, the right gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles. Dix can be climbed by itself, but in many cases is combined with the rest or parts of the range. The Dix Range also includes Carson Peak (South Dix), Grace Peak (formally East Dix), Hough Peak, and Macomb Mountain.

Key takeaways

• Elevation: 4,857 feet
• Distance: 13.2 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 3.740 feet
• Based on an ascent from Elk Lake via the Beckhorn Trail

Hiking Dix Mountain

There are multiple approaches to this mountain. These are the most popular when climbing Dix by itself, with the trailhead at Elk Lake being the main way people hike this peak in the summer months. The views from Dix are some of the best in Northeast including views of the Green Mountains in Vermont. Below are brief descriptions of the two main marked trails to Dix Mountain. To visit the other peaks in the range, we highly recommend you pick up a guide book for more in depth detail or hire a local guide to assist you in your visit to the Dix Range.

Elk Lake: Please note, this route is closed during big game season. Hikers commonly choose to climb Dix from the south by taking the Hunter Pass Trail from Elk Lake toward Hunters Pass, then to the Beckhorn Trail and up for a 6.6 mile one way hike. Hunter's Pass is a longer trail but slightly less steep than the Beckhorn, and can be an alternative if you don't do well with exposure.

Round Pond: This is 13.2 miles round trip when doing Dix Mountain alone, with 3,725 feet of elevation gain. From Route 73, you will climb steeply above the road and follow a moderate course to the shore of Round Pond. After a hike around Round Pond, you will start a modest ascent to a four-way intersection. From here it's mostly flat to the Bouquet River Lean-to at 4.2 miles. From this point the climb starts to get a bit steeper to the base of the slides on the face of Dix. The slides do not access the summit. After passing along the base of the slides you will duck back into the woods and start a very steep and demanding hike along an eroded path. The steep terrain does not end until the summit is practically reached. This makes for a challenging, but rewarding, climb.

Dix Mountain in the winter

Dix Mountain is a challenging peak that should only be attempted by experienced hikers, especially in winter, so make sure you are prepared. Snowshoes are necessary, and snow spikes and crampons are needed to climb the exposed upper reaches of the peak, especially if ascending the Beckhorn Trail from Elk Lake. Most people, if tackling Dix Mountain only in the winter, choose to go from the Round Pond trailhead. 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. 

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Dix Mountain 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

Round Pond: To reach this trailhead, head south on NY 73 from Lake Placid and Keene about 1 miles past the parking area at Chapel Pond. The start is marked with a small DEC sign and there is a small parking area just north of the trailhead. Do not park on the shoulder of the road.

Elk Lake: To get there from the intersection of Route 86 and Route 73 in Lake Placid, follow Route 73 through Keene and Keene Valley. Continue on Route 73 to I-87. Merge onto the highway and continue until Exit 29 (North Hudson). Turn left on Blue Ridge Road and continue about 4 miles toward Newcomb, where you'll see a sign for the Elk Lake Lodge. Turn right here and follow this to the end of the road. Keep in mind, in winter, the lot at Elk Lake is closed and hikers will need to start at Clear Pond, 2 miles down the road, adding 4 miles round trip to a hike. 

Hiking New York state's fourth highest peak

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

Key takeaways

• Elevation: 4,926 feet
• Elevation gain: 3,800 feet round trip
• Distance: 9.4 miles one way
• Hike includes water crossings, steep rock slab, and trail junctions
• Based on the trail from Upper Works

Hiking Skylight

There are multiple trails to the summit of Mount Skylight. Information on this page describes the out-and-back hike from Upper Works. Find information on the approach from the High Peaks Information Center via the Van Hoevenberg Trail here. This peak is often climbed with in conjunction with Mount Marcy and Gray Peak. The Adirondack Mountain Club is asking that people stop carrying rocks to the summit as it can damage alpine vegetation and create hazards for hikers and the Summit Stewards.

From Upper Works follow the trail to Flowed Lands and Lake Colden. After reaching the lakes, the hike becomes more demanding. From the dam, hike along the Opalescent River and continue on the trail past the Uphill Lean-to and the intersection for Feldspar. The climb remains steady and eventually you will come to Lake Tear of the Clouds. You will hike near the shore of the lake and end up at Four-Corners, a major intersection on the south side of Marcy. (Trail left here leads to Mount Marcy.) At this point, take a right and climb up the shoulder of Skylight. This section tends to be a bit wet and slippery in spots. This final approach is the steepest section of the entire hike. After you reach the summit, head back down to Four Corners, and you'll have the choice to add on Gray and Marcy, or return back to Upper Works.

Mount Skylight in winter

Mount Skylight 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 or crampons are needed to climb the exposed upper reaches of the peak. 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. Do not attempt to cross Flowed Lands unless the conditions warrant.

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Skylight 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. 

Avalanche Lake is beautiful and remote, but well-travelled. It's well worth the trip for those who are prepared for the miles. Avalanche Pass is usually approached from the Adirondack Loj, but it can also be approached from the Upper Works, and when the two are combined make for an excellent through hike. Below both routes are described for those who want to hike the complete pass from Lake Placid to Newcomb or vice versa.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 13.6 miles round trip
• Elevation: 2,165 feet
• Elevation gain: 1,625 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions, bridges, and ladders
• Based on a hike from Upper Works

Hiking Avalanche Lake

Primary approach via Upper Works

This is a 6.8 mile hike, one way to the south end of Avalanche Lake. Starting from Upper Works it is a long day to the south shore of Avalanche Lake and back, but a rewarding through hike to Adirondak Loj.

From the parking area at Upper Works. the trail starts mostly flat, but starts its climb to Flowed Lands after a junction at 1.6 miles. Flowed Lands, reached at 4.5 miles offers amazing views through the valley past Mount Colden. From Flowed Lands you will hike its perimeter along a difficult trail of many ups and downs to the dam on Lake Colden. From the dam you will pass through a heavily-used camping are along the shore of Lake Colden. Past Lake Colden you will climb a bit to the south end of Avalanche Lake where the views are breathtaking.

Secondary approach via Adirondack Loj

This is a 4.8 mile hike, one way to the south end of Avalanche Lake. From the Loj follow the hikers' approach trail to the High Peaks that leads to Marcy Dam. From Marcy Dam, follow the trail toward Lake Colden. The first mile is a gentle climb, but the next half-mile is steep. Passing by a couple of newer (2011) slides on the side of Mount Colden you make your way through the apex of the pass where the temperatures are typically much cooler. Vast cliffs and wet rocks loom over you. The trail then descends to Avalanche Lake.

The hike past the lake is a bit demanding, especially with full packs, many choose to stop here and enjoy the views of the sheer rock cliffs of Colden and Avalanche Mountain. Past this point you will contend with boulders, ladders and a very windy trail, but the views along this section of trail are amazing and well worth the effort.

Avalanche Lake in the winter

Following the same route, winter hikers may snowshoe or ski to the lake. Note: Short winter daylight hours and a long route necessitate proper winter gear and emergency equipment. Do not snowshoe or ski out onto the lake during early spring or early winter, or when weather has been warm.

Find more trails in the Adirondack Hub

Does Avalanche Lake 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

Primary trailhead/Upper Works: From exit 29 on the I87, follow the Blue Ridge Road (CR84) toward Newcomb. Continue for roughly 18 miles to the Tahawus Road (CR25) on the right. Follow this road for 6.3 miles to a left at a sign for the High Peaks and then to its end at Upper Works at 9 miles.

Secondary trailhead/Adirondack Loj: Leave Lake Placid on Rte 73, follow Route 73 toward Keene. Continue for about 3 miles to Adirondack Loj Road on the right. Follow Adirondack Loj Road to its end at Heart Lake and park in the main parking lot. A parking fee will be required.

A long hike to the base of the mountain, a short climb, then 360 degrees of stunning views from the summit of the vast Pharaoh Lake Wilderness area.

How to get there

There are more access points for this mountain. Here is one: Take exit 28 off of I-87 and continue south on Route 9 to Alder Meadow Road. Turn left on Alder Meadow Rd. for 2.2 miles, then left on Crane Pond Rd. The road beyond is quite rough but still drivable with high clearance vehicles but not recommended. Park here and walk the easy road to a flooded area with a trail bypass to the left that leads to Crane Pond, 2.0 miles from the parking area.

By the numbers

• Distance: 4.9 miles, one way from the parking area before the rough road starts
• Mountain elevation: 2,556 feet

Hiking

Cross the bridge over the outlet and continue on the flat for 0.7 miles to a junction. Turn right and soon start a gradual climb that steepens at 1.9 miles from Crane Pond and reaches the rocky summit at 2.9 miles. 

Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing

Skiing Crane Pond road would be enjoyable, but we recommend switching to snowshoe for the mountain ascent.

For a short but sweet walk in the wilderness, check out the Grizzle Ocean loop in the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area.

Getting there

Follow Route 74 out of Schroon Lake toward Ticonderoga. After about 13 miles turn right on Putts Pond Road. Follow that to the end at Putnam Pond State Campground. There will be a small fee to use when the campground is open, but this time of year it is closed and free to enter. Pass by the booth and turn left to go up a small hill and into a parking area on the left. The trail is located at the far end of the trailhead parking.

Hiking

From the trailhead, you will follow a nice flat trail that passes by Putnam Pond to your right. The trail soon turns into a short, moderate climb before reaching a rather long descent to a major intersection. Right leads toward Treadway Mountain and Rock Pond, and left leads to Grizzle Ocean and beyond.

After a short climb you will soon come to the split for the loop, which is a fantastic hike that approaches and leaves the shore of this small backcountry pond. Certain areas of the pond are known for their cranberry growth. Once you finish the loop, return using the trail you followed in.

• Elevation: 1,475 feet
• Ascent: 150' of elevation change
• Distance Round Trip: 5 miles

Snowshoeing

This route makes for a fine snowshoe. Just be aware distances may increase as roads may not be plowed in the winter. Be prepared for a longer outing.

Camping

There is an attractive lean-to located in the open pine forest that is a perfect spot for a campfire and a snack. 

Crane Pond is a beautiful gem in the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness. 

How to get there

Take Exit 28 off of Interstate 87 and follow Route 9 south, toward Schroon Lake. In just over a half mile, take a left onto Alder Meadow Road, follow it for about 2.2 miles, then turn onto Crane Pond Road. Follow that for 1.5 miles to the large parking area at the end of the road. Crane Pond Road is typically not in very good condition so be prepared for a longer walk or ski if it is not drivable. 

Hiking

This dirt road is one of the major northern access points for the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness. The road is becoming very rough since it is NOT maintained. The road travels 2 miles to Crane Pond. Hiking is the best option for travelers to the area, since the road often becomes impassable due to mud. From the DEC: Crane Pond road "extends 1.7 miles from the Crane Pond Trailhead at the edge of the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness to the western shore of Crane Pond. The trail ascends 160 feet in the first 1.2 miles to the highest point on the trail and then descends 60 feet to the end of the trail. The last 0.7 mile of the trail parallels the north shore of Alder Pond... This trail is neither designated nor maintained for motor vehicle use. DEC discourages the use of the trail by motor vehicles, however, hikers should be alert for motor vehicles on the trail."

Fishing

Crane Pond is 167 acres. There is plenty of shoreline fishing available. This pond is great for bass and panfish. The road back to Crane Pond is typically not very good, so driving it is not recommended. Consider this a pond you need to portage to. The portage is 2 miles along the dirt road, upon which a cart could easily be used. No motors are allowed in this Wilderness Area. Insider tips: troll the deep portions of the lake on the west end for lake trout, use the shallows for panfish and perch, and the south side of the pond and a northwest peninsula are decent for smallmouth bass. Cast out and reel back slow to bring them out from the steep slopes. Fish species types: bullhead, lake trout, bass, perch, and panfish.

Ice Fishing

Look for lake trout, northern pike, and yellow perch. The lake trout are open season all year, with a minimum length of 15 inches and daily limit of three. Use or possession of baitfish prohibited.

Paddling

Crane Pond is the most popular paddling location within the wilderness because it is the most easily accessed and has shoreline tent sites. The pond can be accessed from Crane Pond Trailhead via Crane Pond Trail. Be prepared for a portage.

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing

A not-oft used road leads through old growth forest to this lovely pond, offering wonderful winter scenery!

Camping

There are nine designated tent sites on the shore of Crane Pond, which can only be accessed by water.