Exploring 5 Of The Best Adirondack Hiking Trails: Where High Peaks And Iconic Views Meet

The Adirondack hiking trails are some of the most unforgettable in the entire Northeast. This region isn’t just scenic, it’s a massive playground of High Peaks, waterfalls, and chasms carved out over thousands of years.

Whether you’re chasing panoramic views, training for the 46 Adirondack high peaks challenge, or just want a solid hike, understanding what you’re getting into makes all the difference between an epic adventure and a miserable slog. the Adirondacks offer trails that stick with you long after you leave.

The Adirondacks aren’t just mountains, they’re a legitimate hiking playground that’ll test your limits, and reward you with views that make every blister worth it.

People travel from all over to hike these mountains, not because they’re easy, but because they’re beautiful, challenging, and completely unique to Upstate New York.

Uncovering 5 Of The 46 High Peaks:

There are a total of 46 high peaks in the Adirondacks. We will discuss and uncover 5 of the high peaks and what to expect. I have also added various photos, but keep in mind that the photos don’t do the actual beauty of being there, justice.

Planning Your Adirondack Hiking Adventure

Having a successful hiking adventure in the Adirondacks requires planning and preparation. The weather changes rapidly at elevation, and without notice, so be sure to bring layers of clothing even on warm days.

The AllTrails app gives detailed and updated information such as: trail conditions, difficulty ratings, and recent reviews that help you choose appropriately.

Be sure to bring a backpack, and plenty of needed gear. Snacks, plenty of water to stay hydrated, a small emergency kit in case of accidents, are all essential things to bring along on your hike.

Black flies are the worst, and mosquitoes aren’t fun either, so be sure to prepare for them.

The 46 high peaks represent a serious undertaking that typically spans over several years for most hikers.

Starting with accessible peaks like Cascade and Porter builds skills and confidence before progressing to more demanding objectives like Giant or Marcy. There is no shame in turning around if conditions deteriorate or you’re simply not feeling up for the challenge. The mountains aren’t going anywhere, and will be there tomorrow.

Whether you want to take selfies, you have personal goals, or just want an excuse to spend time in stunning wilderness, the beauty of the Adirondack hiking trails alone will give you experiences that stick with you for a long time.

Mount Marcy: The Crown Jewel of the Adirondacks

Mount Marcy is one hike every outdoors lover should do at least once. Not only is it the highest peak in New York state, standing at 5,344 feet tall, but the entire trail feels like you’re walking upward into an entirely different world. The forest changes slowly as you climb, and when you break through the treeline near the summit, you understand instantly why Marcy is legendary.

The summit delivers unbelievable, panoramic views that stretch for miles, with nearby Mount Skylight adding even more beauty to an already stunning landscape.

This hike isn’t a casual stroll. Be sure to expect a full day commitment with roughly 15 miles round trip and over 3,000 feet of elevation gain.

The view stretches out across the High Peaks, and on a clear day you can even make out Skylight, another stunning peak that sits close by. Marcy is long and demanding, and you’ll absolutely feel it in your legs. However, it’s one of the most rewarding hikes in the Adirondacks.

The quest to conquer the 46 High Peaks defines the region’s outdoor culture. At the pinnacle of this challenge sits Mount Marcy, the highest point in New York State. The rewards are legendary, with one trail leading past Lake Tear of the Clouds. The true source of the Hudson River before the final, exhilarating ascent.

Most hikers tackle Marcy from the Adirondack Loj trailhead, though several routes exist depending on your fitness level, and how much punishment you enjoy.

Summer weekends get crowded, so consider weekday trips or early morning starts if you prefer solitude with your satisfying suffering.

Cascade & Porter: Two High Peaks, One Perfect Day

If someone wants their first taste of the 46 High Peaks without committing to something brutal, Cascade and Porter is the perfect place to start. They’re considered some of the more accessible High Peaks, and you can actually hike both in a single outing.

Cascade Mountain serves as the perfect introduction, and it’s the most frequently climbed peak in the range. It’s relatively short at 4.8 miles round trip, manageable elevation, and absolutely amazing views from the bare rock summit.

The trail stays well maintained and is clearly marked, making it ideal for families or anyone building confidence before tackling tougher objectives.

Cascade gives you that classic open rock summit with wide, sweeping mountain views. Porter is quieter, less crowded, and gives you more of that peaceful Adirondack feel.

They both offer a “real” Adirondack mountain experience, which is why they’re among the most popular High Peaks in the region.

Porter Mountain sits right next door to Cascade, and experienced hikers often hike both in a single trip. The connection trail between them adds minimal mileage while doubling your peak count for the day.

Smart hikers bring the AllTrails app to navigate the junction and track their progress. Because the app has so much information tied to it, it has become essential gear alongside water and snacks.

Giant Mountain: Difficult, Steep, and Completely Worth It

For hikers who want a challenge, Giant Mountain never disappoints. This mountain doesn’t mess around. It’s steep, and it does not ease up. You earn every foot of elevation, but it’s extremely rewarding.

The views from Giant are dramatic, rugged, and far reaching, making it one of the most photographed, and beautiful High Peaks in the Adirondacks.

This is the kind of hike that humbles you in the beginning, and rewards you at the top. If you like tough climbs with huge summit payoffs, this one belongs on your list.

This beast of a mountain ranks among the more challenging Adirondack hiking trails, serving up steep, relentless climbing that’ll have your quads screaming by the summit.

The exposed ridge walking near the top provides some of the most dramatic scenery in the entire region, with sheer drops and sweeping vistas that justify every moan, groan, and whine on the way up.

The trail from Route 73 near Keene Valley stretches about 6 miles round trip with roughly 3,000 feet of vertical gain packed into that distance. Be sure to come prepared with proper footwear, plenty of water, and realistic expectations about your fitness level.

Keene Valley: The Heart of the High Peaks

Keene Valley is known as the “Home of the High Peaks,” and it’s slightly south of Lake Placid. Almost every major High Peak trailhead is either in Keene Valley, or right next to it.

Located slightly south of Lake Placid, Keene Valley functions as the unofficial headquarters for serious peak hikers chasing the 46 high peaks. This small mountain town provides convenient access to multiple trailheads while maintaining that authentic Adirondack character. The small town has local shops, hearty breakfast places, and people who actually use their hiking boots.

While we’re not diving into all 46 peaks here (that’s a multi year commitment for most people), Keene Valley serves as a local hiking community. The town is welcoming and generous with trail information, making it easy to get current conditions and route recommendations.

It’s the perfect home base if you’re planning multi day hiking trips, tackling several peaks, or just want quick access to some of the region’s best trails. Even many shorter hikes in this area offer viewpoints that look like something pulled from a National Geographic cover.

Ausable Chasm: The Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks

Ausable Chasm proves that not all Adirondack adventures involve big mountains. It is a massive 2 mile long, sandstone gorge. It’s one of the oldest natural attractions in the United States, and offers a totally different kind of outdoor experience.

At Ausable Chasm you’ll find:

• Whitewater rafting to navigate the river’s rapids, giving adrenaline rushes for those who’ve had enough of uphill grinding.
• More than 15 miles of mountain biking trails for mountain biking enthusiasts.
• Unique cavern formations.
• Scenic walking paths through the gorge.
• Suspension bridges and river views.
• Stunning geological formations like the Devil’s Oven cavern.

It’s dramatic, fun, and it’s perfect for anyone who wants an unforgettable adventure without climbing a mountain to get it.

Not every Adirondack adventure requires summiting peaks. Ausable Chasm offers a completely different experience.

Final Thoughts On These 5 Adirondack Hiking Trails

The Adirondack hiking trails combine everything people love about the outdoors. It has towering peaks, peaceful valleys, deep canyons, and trails that range from beginner friendly to seriously intense.

Whether you’re hiking Mount Marcy, exploring Ausable Chasm, knocking two High Peaks off your list, or pushing yourself up Giant Mountain, every trail leaves you with a story worth telling.

The Adirondacks aren’t just a place to hike, they’re a place to feel alive. If you enjoyed this article, be sure to check out the winter carnivals in the Adirondacks for even more fun things to do.