Summit Hikes

Explore Adirondack summit hikes

Here in the Adirondacks, you will find plentiful opportunities for hiking no matter what your ability level is. In addition to miles of scenic hikes and paths leading to lakes and ponds along with our Adirondack waterfall hikes, there are a multitude of summit hikes. Hiking to the top of a mountain and soaking in the panoramic views is the perfect reward for a day of climbing, knowing you reached the top! On the horizon, spot the beauty that surrounds you, along with the fun in identifying other mountain summits.

Leave No Trace

The magic of the Adirondacks is the result of previous generations taking a long view and protecting the mountains, lakes, and rivers within the Blue Line. That tradition continues today as we support and encourage everyone to practice Leave No Trace ethics, which help protect the lands and waters of the Adirondacks. 

The best way to cement your legacy is to pledge to always protect the wild lands and waters of the Adirondacks by practicing Leave No Trace ethics and good stewardship.

Endion Road
Long Lake, NY 12847
Owls Head Mountain is part of the Sargent Ponds Wild Forest, which covers an impressive approximate 45,000 acres. This rather prominent peak in the Long Lake area is made up of four separate summits, two of which are referred to as the horns.
The fire tower adds more scenic possibilities.
Route 30
Long Lake, NY 12847
As far as views go, this is one of the best in the area and should not be missed. The waters of Tupper Lake can be seen to the north as well and the wooded hills of the Horseshoe Lake Wild Forest to the west.
Great views and a sense of accomplishment when the summit is reached.
Cedar River Road
Indian Lake, NY 12842
Wakely Mountain’s 70-foot tower is one of the highest in New York state, and the tower stairs afford an excellent view of the West Canada Lakes Wilderness to the south and great views of the High Peaks to the north on clear days. 
The Wakely Mountain Firetower offers the best views from the wooded summit.
Route 10
Lake Pleasant, NY 12108
This route is NOT officially maintained. It is strongly recommended you bring a map and compass to navigate off-trail.
This is a non-maintained trail, but so well-marked it will not challenge those bushwhacking skills.
Route 421
Piercefield, NY 12973
Lows Overlook is such a beautiful destination; it's hard to put a description into words! Overlooking the breathtaking Bog River, the views here will surely leave you inspired to explore this area further!
The hike to Lows Overlook ends with a gorgeous vista.
Inlet, NY 13360
Black Bear Mountain is a gem in the Inlet area! One of the nice features of the Black Bear Mountain trail is that you can loop over the top and connect to another trail making for an interesting day in the woods.
Route 30
Blue Mountain Lake, NY 12812
Sawyer is one of the more popular routes in the Indian Lake Region, mainly due to its excellent payoff for little effort. Fun for the entire family, Sawyer should not be missed.
Gorgeous views from the summit of Sawyer Mountain.
Indian Lake, NY 12842
Combine paddling and hiking for this fun adventure!
Lake Pleasant, NY 12108
Pillsbury Mountain is one of those peaks that has a spectacular, remote, backcountry feel. A maze of scenic backroads will get you there, but you need to take it slow as they can be very rough at times.
Route 30
Indian Lake, NY 12842
Snowy is one of the more demanding hikes in Hamilton County and is also one of the 100 highest highest peaks in the Adirondacks. Its steep trail and rugged terrain will make you earn every bit of this mountain's elevation.
A wonderfully framed sunrise is the reward for a winter campout.
Piseco, NY 12139
This is a very popular hike located near Piseco, NY, with easy terrain. The trail to this popular destination is well worn and occasionally steep.
Green Lake Road
Arietta, NY ‎12139
In a quiet corner of the Adirondacks sits Kane Mountain. A 60-foot fire tower was constructed here in 1925, making it a very attractive destination.
Indian Lake, NY 12842
A small mountain with big views, Watch Hill follows an easy forest road to the base of the climb. Follow the foot trail up to some short, though extremely fun, sections of steep rock lips, and up to the ridge line.
Maple Lodge Road
Blue Mountain Lake, NY 12812
This is one of the most popular destinations in the Blue Mountain Lake Region, and rightfully so, it's got an amazing view. This is a great destination for the entire family to get out and enjoy the Adirondack backwoods.
A project for the whole family where everyone can have a favorite part.
Hunt Club Road
Inlet, NY 13360
With many good parking spots around the Red River bridge, this trail along the Red River offers miles of access to all types of terrain.
Keep our brook trout healthy. No baitfish.
Big Brook Road
Indian Lake, NY 12842
A quiet outing in any season. Enjoy this remote trail in a wilderness setting! 
Big Brook Road
Indian Lake, NY 12842
*Until further notice, parking and access to Chimney Mountain has been closed. Keep up to date on access on the NYSDEC website.
Rondaxe Road
Inlet, NY 13360
While not part of the Hamilton County Fire Tower Challenge, Bald Mountain is part of the Adirondack Fire Tower Challenge and is a great “bang for your buck” outing.
This is a fire tower hikes with an extra rocky ridge to walk on.