Treadway Mountain has some of the best views in the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area, and is quite a popular hike when the Putnam Pond DEC Campground is open.
Key takeaways
- Distance: 7.8 miles round trip
- Elevation gain: 1,430 feet
- Mountain elevation: 2,218 feet
- Hike includes trail junctions, bridges, and an open summit
Hiking Treadway Mountain
From the trailhead, start along a flat trail that passes by Putnam Pond passing by a short spur trail that leads to Putnam Pond on your right. There is then a short climb before a rather long descent. Soon there is a major intersection on the opposite side of a small bridge and from that intersection take a right, left leads to Grizzle Ocean. Continue around Putnam Pond for a bit longer to another junction; this is where the Treadway Mountain Trail comes in on the left and to the right is another short trail down to Putnam Pond. From here you will start a moderate climb that will swing you through an attractive forest with mixed stands and rocky steps. While the climb is fairly moderate, it will be a 900 foot ascent to the very top from the junction. As you approach the summit, many views will start to appear and the summit ridge is an exceptional location for near endless photography. It is rocky and open, so take care to watch where you're stepping, staying off vegetation and sticking to the rock.
Treadway Mountain in the winter
Depending on where plowing ends, this hike may be a lot longer. Be prepared to walk additional miles on the road. Take note that while the pond may be frozen and provide an alternative approach to the southern trail, make sure to monitor ice conditions and cross at your own risk. This hike makes for a good snowshoe, but not crosscountry ski, and is quite isolated. Be prepared for all winter conditions.
Find more trails
Does Treadway 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!
Paddling
Combine the hike up Treadway with a paddle. Start from the campground and traverse the pond westward to a small bay, where a trail links up with the aforementioned hiking trail. See map in the photo slideshow for a general bearing.
How to get there
From I-87 in Schroon Lake, follow Route 74 toward Ticonderoga. Continue to Putts Pond Road on the left. Follow Putts Pond Road to the end at the Putnam Pond State Campground. Head straight through the booth area and head up the hill, the trailhead will be on the left at the day-use parking area. There is a day-use fee when the campground is seasonally operational.
