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Trail Information for the High Peaks

Image depicting the location of High Peaks region within the Adirondack Park

Updated: May 16, 2013

General Notices

Former Finch Pruyn Lands: Last year Governor Cuomo and DEC Commissioner Martens announced the commitment by New York State to acquire 69,000 acres of the former Finch Pruyn lands in the Adirondacks in phases over the next five years. See Governor Cuomo's press release on the planned acquisition.

Governor Cuomo recently announced the closing on five tracts of land totaling 9,300 acres. Some of these tracts lie just outside the Adirondack Park. State will actually acquire the tracts over several weeks and the transactions should be completed by mid-May.

When combined with the previously purchased 18,318-acre Essex Chain of Lakes Tracts, the State will own 27,618 acres of new forest preserve and state forest lands. The remaining 41,382 acres will be purchased in phases over the next three years.

More information on the acquisition of the former Finch Pruyn Lands, including announcements regarding public access opportunities, can be found on the Acquisition of Former Finch Pruyn Lands web page. (5/2)

WARNING: Wilderness conditions can change suddenly. All users should plan accordingly, including bringing flashlight, first aid equipment, extra food and clothing. Weather conditions may alter your plans; you should always be prepared to spend an unplanned night in the woods before entering the back country. Back country hiking trails can be rugged and rough - they are not maintained as park walkways - wear proper footwear!

Report back country emergencies, such as lost or injured hikers, and wildland fires to the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235.

Mountain Forecast: Weather is an important factor in preparing for hiking or camping in the Adirondack backcountry. Often there is considerable difference in weather conditions at the trailhead and those experienced in the higher elevations. The National Weather Service in Burlington has a product that provides a weather forecast for elevations above 3000 feet and spot forecasts for the summits of a handful of the highest peaks in Clinton, Essex and Franklin County. Use the link near the bottom of the right column to access the forecast.

Be Prepared

  • Know
    • Your own physical capabilities, knowledge of backcountry recreation and skill level
    • The distance you plan to travel and the terrain and conditions you will encounter
  • Check (before entering the backcountry)
    • With the Local Forest Ranger for current information.
    • Current weather conditions, snow depths and short-term forecast
  • Wear
    • Appropriate outer wear and winter foot wear (boots, gaiters and water proof outer wear)
    • Hat and gloves or mittens
    • Layers of non-cotton clothes
  • Carry
    • Map and compass - know how to use them and use them!
    • Flashlight or headlamp and extra batteries
    • Plenty of food and water
  • Pack
    • Extra clothes and socks
    • Ensolite pad to rest on and insulate your body from cold surfaces
    • Bivy sack or space blankets for extra warmth
    • Fire starter supplies - waterproof matches, butane lighter, candles, starter material, etc. (NOTE: Fires are prohibited in the Eastern High Peaks Wilderness)
  • Always inform someone of your itinerary and when you expect to return

Northville-Placid Trail Website: The Adirondack Mountain Club has created of a new web site devoted to the 133-mile Northville-Placid Trail. The new website provides information about planning a hike on the trail - whether a through-hike, section-hike or weekend-hike. It also provides information on the latest trail conditions. Use the link near the bottom of the right column. (2010)

Motorized Equipment in Wilderness, Primitive and Canoe Areas: DEC has adopted a regulation prohibiting the use of motorized equipment in lands classified as wilderness, primitive or canoe. Public use of small personal electronic or mechanical devices such as cameras, radios or GPS receivers is not affected this new regulation. See Section 196.8 in the DEC Regulations.

Camping Group Sizes in Wilderness, Primitive and Canoe Areas: DEC regulation requires that groups of ten or more persons camping on state land obtain a permit from a forest ranger. DEC policy prohibits issuing group camping permits to groups wanting to camp on forest preserve lands in the Adirondacks that are classified as wilderness, primitive or canoe area. This policy was developed to protect natural resources, the primeval character of the area and exceptional wilderness experiences for all recreationists, and follows Leave No Trace practices. Except for the eastern High Peaks Wilderness, Pharaoh Lake Wilderness and the William C. Whitney Wilderness, where the group size is 8, camping groups in wilderness, primitive and canoe area lands are limited to 9 people or less.

Camping Permits: Camping for more than three nights or in a group of ten or more in Wild Forest lands requires a permit from a Forest Ranger. The following information must be provided to the forest ranger to obtain a camping permit: Name, Address, City, State, Zip Code, Vehicle License Plate Number, Telephone Number, Date of Birth, Number in Group, Camping Dates, and Location of Campsite.

Backcountry Campsites: Camping at designated campsites in the backcountry is done on a first come, first served basis. There is no reservation system for these primitive campsites. Campsites in popular areas fill up quickly on weekends so plan accordingly.

Road & Traffic Information: Use the link in the right column to visit NYS Department of Transportation 511 New York for information on transportation services, traffic, and road conditions throughout New York State.

Trails Supporter Patch: The Trails Supporter Patch is now available for $5 at all outlets where sporting licenses are sold, on-line and via telephone at 1-866-933-2257. Patch proceeds will help maintain and enhance non-motorized trails throughout New York State.

Seasonal Notices

Fire Danger: Moderate. Check the current fire danger rating. Be careful with campfires. Campfires are prohibited in the Eastern Zone of the High Peaks Wilderness. (5/16)

Victoria Day Weekend: This is a Canadian holiday weekend. Trailhead parking lots and interior campsites reach capacity in the region, especially in the Eastern High Peaks. Plan accordingly and seek backcountry recreation opportunities in other areas of the Adirondack Forest Preserve to avoid crowds. (5/16)

Bear Activity: Black bears are becoming active in the backcountry. The use of bear-resistant canisters is required in the Eastern Zone of High Peaks and encouraged throughout the Adirondacks. Prevent attracting and creating nuisance bears by properly using bear-resistant canisters, by storing all food, toiletries and garbage in the canister and by following other practices to prevent attracting bears. (5/16)

Muddy Trail Advisory: Hikers are advised to avoid trails above 3000 feet to protect the trails and surrounding vegetation which are very vulnerable at this time of year. Melting snow saturates thin soils found on the steep slopes of the mountains and much of the vegetation growing in high elevations is surviving on the edge of existence. Hikers can cause severe erosion of trails and significant damage to vegetation. Steep, wet and muddy trails are also very slipper. Hikers are asked to hike in lower elevation areas until the trails have dried up. (5/16)

Biting Insect: Until the end of summer black flies, mosquitoes, deer flies and/or midges (no-see-ums) will be present. Take steps to minimize the nuisance of biting insects: (5/16)

  • Wear light colored clothing;
  • Wear long sleeve shirts and long pants, and tuck shirts into pants;
  • Button or rubber band sleeves at the wrist;
  • Tuck the bottom of pant legs into your socks;
  • Pack a headnet to wear when insects are thick;
  • Use an insect repellant with DEET, follow label directions.

Road Construction and Parking Area Closures: Road construction is underway on the Old Military Road which connects Route 73 and Route 86 near Lake Placid. Motor vehicles must detour through the village of Lake Placid. Construction should be completed by Memorial Day Weekend. Road construction on Route 73 along the Cascade Lakes has been postponed. Use the link in the right column to visit NYS Department of Transportation 511 New York for information on transportation services, traffic, and road conditions throughout the Adirondacks. (5/16)

Spring Conditions: Snow is gone except in the highest elevations. Temperatures are in the 50s and 60s with night time temperatures above freezing except in the higher elevations. Always check current weather conditions and forecasts before entering the backcountry. Use the link near bottom of the right column to view the current National Weather Service "Weather Forecast". (5/16)

Trail Conditions: Low and mid-elevation trails are mainly dry. High elevations trails and trails near drainages, streams, rivers, ponds and lakes. Snow is present in th higher elevations. Wear appropriate footwear for hiking through wet and muddy areas. Stay on the trail and hike through muddy areas to avoid widening the trails or creating "herd paths". (5/16)

Paddling Conditions: Water levels are below average and waters remain cold. Don't paddle alone, wear clothing that will keep you warm and dry and always wear a personal floatation device (PFD). Use the link near the bottom of right column to view the USGS Streamflows for selected waters in this area. (5/16)

Summits: Conditions on and near summits are more extreme - stronger winds and colder temperatures; snow and ice may be present summits above 4000 feet. Use the link near the bottom of the right column to view the National Weather Service's "Mountain Forecasts" for selected summits in this area. (5/16)

Blowdown: Blowdown may be present on trails, especially lesser used trails. Plan accordingly. (5/16)

Dogs on Leash: Dog owners are reminded that dogs must be leashed in the Eastern High Peaks when on trails, at primitive tent sites, at lean-to sites, everywhere above 4,000 feet, or at other areas where the public congregates. It is recommended dogs be kept leashed in most areas for the safety of your dog, the protection of wildlife and as a courtesy to fellow hikers. (5/16)

Possibility of Hanta Virus: The NYS Department of Health (DOH) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have confirmed the presence of Hanta Virus antibodies in a man from Suffolk County, NY. It is possible that the man contracted Hanta Virus from mice in Uphill lean-to in the Eastern High Peaks. (2012)

Although hanta virus is extremely rare, and has never been recorded in the Adirondacks, DEC has checked lean-tos in the area and removed food and other garbage from in, under and around the lean-tos. See the links to the DOH Press Release and the CDC Hanta Virus web page in the right column for more information.

Campers and hikers can help to avoid attracting nuisance wildlife, including mice, squirrels, martens and bears, by following these housekeeping practices:

  • Cook away from your campsite
  • Plan portions to avoid leftovers
  • Keep food in storage containers except when cooking or eating
  • Be neat and clean while cooking and eating
  • Clean up your hands, clothing and dishware immediately after eating
  • Never leave food unattended
  • Use bear resistant food canisters year-round to store food, toiletries and garbage
  • Carry out all garbage

Specific Notices

High Peaks Wilderness

High Use Periods: Visitors to the Eastern High Peaks Wilderness should be aware that trailhead parking lots and interior campsites reach capacity on many weekends throughout the hiking season. Visitors should plan accordingly and are advised to seek backcountry recreation opportunities in other areas of the Adirondack Forest Preserve during these high use weekends. Hikes Outside of the High Peaks provides a list of alternative day hikes in the Adirondacks.

While visitors can certainly expect capacity conditions to exist on holiday weekends, and most good weather weekends in July or August, they should check with DEC Forest Rangers (518/897-1300) prior to any weekend trip to the Eastern High Peaks Wilderness. The holiday weekends this year are:

  • Victoria Day Weekend (Canada): May 17-20
  • Memorial Day Weekend: May 24-27
  • 4th of July/Canada Day Weekend: July 4-7
  • Labor Day Weekend: August 30 - September 2
  • Columbus Day/Canadian Thanksgiving Weekend: October 7-10


  • Hikers are advised to avoid trails above 3000 feet to protect the muddy trails and surrounding vegetation which are very vulnerable at this time of year. (5/16)
  • The use of bear-resistant canisters is required for overnight users in the Eastern High Peaks Wilderness. Prevent creating nuisance bears. Properly use bear-resistant canisters by storing all food, toiletries and garbage in the canister, and follow other practices to prevent attracting bears. (5/16)
  • South Meadow Road is open. (5/16)
  • The bridge over the Hudson River on the East River Trail is out, use the nearby flagged ford (low water crossing). Crossing when water levels are high or when water temperatures are cold can be risky. (5/16)
  • Dog owners are reminded that dogs must be leashed in the Eastern High Peaks when on trails, at primitive tent sites, at lean-to sites, everywhere above 4,000 feet, or at other areas where the public congregates. It is recommended dogs be kept leased in most areas for the safety of your dog, the protection of wildlife and as a courtesy to fellow hikers. (5/16)
  • The Clear Pond Gate on the Elk Lake Road is open providing motor vehicle access to the Elk Lake-Mt. Marcy and Dix Mtn.-Hunter Pass trailheads. (5/16)
  • The public easement agreement for the Adirondack Mountain Reserve (Ausable Club) only allows hiking on the designated trails and roads. Accessing the Lower or Upper Ausable Lakes is prohibited. (5/16)
  • The Corey's Road Gate is open and the road is open to motor vehicle traffic. (5/3)
  • The town of Keene is staffing The Garden parking lot and a $7/day fee is being collected 7 days a week. The shuttle from the remote parking near Marcy Field is not yet running. (5/2)
  • The public easement agreement for the Adirondack Mountain Reserve (Ausable Club) only allows non-motorized travel on the designated trails and roads. (1/17)
  • Many of the herd paths found on Mount Marshall and some of the other trail-less peaks meander around the slopes of the mountain without reaching the peak. Those climbing these peaks should navigate with a map and compass rather than follow the paths created by others. (1/17)
  • The Northville-Placid Trail contains a large area of blowdown near the Seward Lean-to. A detour around the blowdown has been marked with pink flagging. (12/13)
  • The first bridge on the Bradley Pond Trail is damaged and unsafe to use. The stream can be forded at that location. The second bridge, which crosses Santanoni Brook, is tilting. It can be used with caution. (12/6)
  • The Southside Trail from the Garden Trailhead to John's Brook Outpost is closed and DEC is not maintaining it at this time. (2012)
  • The Cold Brook Trail between Lake Colden and Indian Pass is closed and DEC is not maintaining it at this time. (2012)
  • A new bridge has been constructed over Marcy Brook. It is located approximately 200 feet below Marcy Dam, upstream from the low water crossing that had been in use since Hurricane Irene washed away the old bridge over Marcy Dam. (2012)
  • Fixed ropes, harnesses and other equipment are often abandoned in the Trap Dike. Due to the age, weatherizing and wearing of these materials they are unsafe and should never be used. (2012)
  • The low water route through the Deer Brook Flume on the Deer Brook Trail to Snow Mountain remains impassable due to severe erosion. (2011)
  • The bridge on the road to the Garden Trailhead is restricted to 6000 pounds. (2011)
  • The Roaring Brook Bridge near Duck Hole is out. (2011)
  • The Calkins Creek Horse Trail has two bridges out, making it impassable for horse drawn wagons and difficult for horses. (2011)
  • A bridge on the Newcomb Lake to Moose Pond Trail has been flooded by beaver activity. The bridge is intact, but surrounded by water. (2010)

Dix Mountain Wilderness

  • Hikers are advised to avoid trails above 3000 feet to protect the muddy trails and surrounding vegetation which are very vulnerable at this time of year. (5/16)
  • The Clear Pond Gate on the Elk Lake Road is open providing motor vehicle access to the Elk Lake-Mt. Marcy and Dix Mtn.-Hunter Pass trailheads. (5/10)
  • The public easement agreement for the Adirondack Mountain Reserve (Ausable Club) only allows hiking on the designated trails and roads. Accessing the Lower or Upper Ausable Lakes is prohibited. (5/16)
  • The Carry Trail from Adirondack Mountain Reserve to the Colvin Range Trail and the Colvin Range Trail have been cleared of blowdown by the Adirondack Trail Improvement Society and open to hikers. (2012)
  • The Hunter Pass Trail has a small slide approximately 1 mile below the junction with the Round Pond to Dix Mountain Trail. (2011)
  • The Round Mountain Loop Trail has some minor erosion. (2011)

Giant Mountain Wilderness

  • Hikers are advised to avoid trails above 3000 feet to protect the muddy trails and surrounding vegetation which are very vulnerable at this time of year. (5/16)
  • All rock climbing routes on Lower Washbowl Cliffs near Chapel Pond are closed due to confirmed peregrine falcon nesting activity. The rock climbing routes are closed to allow Peregrine Falcons to raise their young. DEC will reopen the climbing routes once the young falcons have fledged which is typically by August 1. (5/16)
  • All rock climbing routes on Upper Washbowl Cliffs near Chapel Pond are open. (5/10)
  • Beaver activity has flooded the North Trail to Giant Mountain from 9N just past the lean-to. (2011)

Hurricane Mountain Wilderness

  • The Jay Mountain Road is open and passable by motor vehicles from either end. However, a bridge on the Carlott Road, one of the roads to access the Jay Mountain Road from the southeast, is closed. (2012)

McKenzie Mountain Wilderness

  • All rock climbing routes on Moss Cliff in the Wilmington Notch are closed at this time due to confirmed peregrine falcon nesting activity. The rock climbing routes are closed to allow Peregrine Falcons to raise their young. DEC will reopen the climbing routes once the young falcons have fledged which is typically by August 1. (5/16)
  • The Connery Pond Gate for access to Conery Pond and the Whiteface Landing Trail is open and motor vehicle access is allowed. However, hikers accessing Whiteface Landing should park at the newly developed and paved parking area along Route 86 immediately west of the bridge over the West Branch of the Ausable. A trail connects the parking area and Connery Pond Road. (5/10)
  • Trail to McKenzie Mountain from the Whiteface Inn Road has been cleared of blowdown to the summit of the mountain. (11/16)
  • The herd path between McKenzie Mountain and Moose Mountain has been cleared of blowdown to within 0.7 mile of the summit of Moose Mountain. (11/16)
  • Hikers accessing Whiteface Landing are encouraged to park at the paved parking area along Route 86 immediately west of the bridge over the West Branch of the Ausable. A trail connects the parking area and Connery Pond Road. (11/16)

Sentinel Range Wilderness

  • The Owen Pond Trailhead located on Route 86 between Lake Placid and Wilmington has been relocated approximately 0.2 miles north (towards Wilmington) of its former location. (2011)

Wilmington Wild Forest

  • A new trail segment has been completed connecting the hamlet of Wilmington's business district with a trail that leads to the remote and scenic Cooper Kiln Pond. The new three-mile trail segment will allow snowmobilers to travel from Wilmington, connect with the previously existing Cooper Kiln Pond Trail and travel another three miles to the pond. It creates a 12.6-mile round trip hiking opportunity. See the press release for more information. (2012)
  • The Flume Parking Area adjacent to the Route 86 bridge over the West Branch of the Ausable River, was re-paved by Town of Wilmington Highway crews. (2011)
  • A 3.5-mile system of multi-use trails has been opened for mountain biking and hiking on the Beaver Brook Tract off the Hardy Road in the Town of Wilmington. Information and map for the Beaver Brook Trail System. (2011)
  • The outlet of Cooper Kill Pond is flooded by beaver activity. (2009)

More about Trail Information for the High Peaks: