Mount Colden

  • Adirondak Loj Rd, Lake Placid
  • info@lakeplacid.com

Facilities

Lean-tos, Tent Sites, Wooded Sites

Hike Features

Summit, Ponds / Lakes
View from near summit of a mountain
Look back at the Trap Dike for a stunning view.
A snowy mountain view
Snowy mountain landscape

Hiking New York's 11th highest mountain

Mount Colden is the 11th highest of the Adirondack High Peaks. It is a steep, serious hike that requires significant preparation. A successful hike of Mount Colden involves research, physical fitness, the right gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles. 

Key statistics

  • Elevation: 4,714 feet
  • Elevation gain: 2,535 feet
  • Distance one way: 6.3 miles
  • Hike includes trail junctions, steep wooden ladders, and steep rock slab
  • Statistics based on an out-and-back hike via the Lake Arnold Trail

Hiking Mount Colden

Below are brief descriptions of the two major routes up Colden. These can be combined to make a long, rugged, and scenic loop.

Colden via Lake Arnold

The first 2.3 miles of this 6.3-mile route follow the popular and often busy trail to Marcy Dam. From the dam, continue on the trail toward Avalanche Camp at 3.4 miles. Make a left and start a moderate to steep climb up to Lake Arnold. At just under 3,800 feet, Lake Arnold is one of the highest bodies of water in the Adirondacks. Turn right and hike past and above the pond.

From the turn at Lake Arnold it's 1.4 miles to the summit. The terrain gets very steep in sections, but there are views as the path approaches the mountain's false summit. Note that the trail doesn't actually go over this small rock outcrop, but instead bears left near its summit. After the left turn, the trails makes its descent to the base of the true summit, then climbs steeply to the top of Mount Colden, where excellent views await.

Colden via Avalanche Pass

The longer approach to Colden first goes through Avalanche Pass. Follow the Colden via Lake Arnold trail to Avalanche Camp, 3.4 miles from the trailhead, then bear right to head toward Avalanche Pass. The trail ascends steeply, but then levels off as it enters Avalanche Pass.

At 4.4 miles, Avalanche Lake comes into view. The cliffs on the left are the base of Mount Colden. Bear right to follow Avalanche Lake's rugged shore and wooden infrastructure. This trail is demanding and consists of scrambling, boulders, and numerous ladders — allow a good amount of time just to get through this section. Once past the lake, the trail moderates and descends to a register at a junction at the 5.8 mile mark. Head left and follow the shore of Lake Colden a bit before going left again to start the very steep and strenuous 1,950-foot climb to the summit of Colden, which is just over a mile from here. Descend via the Lake Arnold trail. 

Camping

There are many options for backcountry camping in this area, just be aware that all sites are first-come, first serve. Marcy Dam has several options, including tent sites and a couple of lean-tos. There are more tent sites at Avalanche Camp and in the Lake Colden and Lake Arnold areas. Bear cans are required in the High Peaks Wilderness Area. 

Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing

Mount Colden 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. Only the most experienced hikers should attempt to go up or down Colden via Avalanche Pass trail in winter, as the slopes are particularly hazardous when icy.

The Avalanche Pass ski trail is designated for use by skiers only and is a great excursion for experienced backcountry skiers. This is a good option for an interesting ski-and-snowshoe winter tour.

Find your perfect trail near Lake Placid

Does Mount Colden sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? No need to stress, with over 2000 miles of hiking trails in the Adirondacks we are sure we can find the perfect hike for you. 

How to get there

Both of the routes described begin at the High Peaks Information Center parking lot, near Adirondack Loj. There is a parking fee to use this large lot. Leave Lake Placid on Route 73, turn right on Adirondack Loj Road, and follow it to its end. 

Packages and Promotions

Clear All Filters

Browse by:

Category

Date

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Stay More, Play More

Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa

Linger longer in the Adirondacks and be rewarded!

Valid Feb. 16

- May. 30

Valid Feb. 16

- May. 30

Stay and Sip

Eastwind Lake Placid

Unwind in comfort with a luxurious hotel stay while enjoying the added delight of two complimentary cocktails.

Valid May. 1

- Apr. 30

Valid Jan. 1

- Apr. 30

Stay & Save

The Devlin

Book a 3-night stay with The Devlin and get 10% off your visit.

Valid Jan. 11

- Apr. 30

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Ski with Olympic Medalist Andrew Weibrecht

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Ever dreamed of spending time on the slopes with an Olympic athlete? Well, now you can!

Valid Jan. 9

- Dec. 31

Valid Jan. 9

- Dec. 31

Babymoon

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Celebrate your growing family with $75 nightly resort credit!

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Play and Stay Package

Crowne Plaza Lake Placid

Includes stay at Crowne Plaza Hotel with Golf at our Lake Placid Club Courses

Valid Apr. 5

- Apr. 11

Valid Mar. 5

- Apr. 11

Winter Clearance - Helmets, Goggles and Poles!

Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort

40% off Helmets, Goggles and Poles!

Valid Apr. 12

- May. 1

Valid Mar. 5

- May. 1

Winter Clearance - 40% OFF!

Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort

40% Off Winter Merchandise

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Spa Escape

Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa

Our Spa Escape package is ideal for couples or friends traveling together.

Valid Mar. 22

- Mar. 24

Valid Jan. 8

- Mar. 24

Girls Getaway Weekend

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

$75 Resort Credit per room per NIGHT to pamper the Girls!

Valid Mar. 26

- Apr. 8

Valid Mar. 26

- Apr. 8

Solar Eclipse Lunch To Go

Green Goddess Natural Market & Catering

Get your eclipse provisions to go from Green Goddess Market & Cafe for just $14.99!

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Spa Experience

Enjoy an in-room spa experience for two with your stay. What better way to connect and relax with your partner after a long day on the mountain!

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

The Adirondack Elopement

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

The ultimate, intimate "I do" experience.

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Woof and Wander

Bluebird Lake Placid

Your pooch will be as comfortable as their owners with our pet friendly package!

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Valid Feb. 8

- Feb. 7

Rustic Romance Getaway Package

Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa

Experience the unspoiled Adirondacks while spoiling yourself and a loved one

Valid Jan. 5

- Jan. 5

Valid Jan. 5

- Jan. 5

Stay More, Play More

High Peaks Resort

Stay for FREE!

Valid Feb. 11

- Jun. 30

Valid Feb. 11

- Jun. 30

Stay 3 nights save 20%

Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort

Book a 3-night stay and save 20%

Valid Jan. 11

- Mar. 23

Valid Jan. 11

- Mar. 23

Savor & Stay

Lake Placid Lodge

Enjoy breakfast and dinner at one of our five star restaurants. Packaged with your stay!

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Romance Package

Package Details Surprise your significant other with a romantic evening waiting for you on the day of your arrival!

Valid Apr. 8

- Apr. 8

Valid Feb. 29

- Apr. 8

Solar Eclipse Viewing Party!

Specialty cocktails featuring Angel's Envy whiskey, delicious buffet offerings, live music and a prime viewing spot to experience totality.

Valid Jan. 8

- Jun. 27

Valid Jan. 8

- Jun. 27

100th Anniversary Package

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

100 years at the Inn gets you $100 Resort Credit PER DAY!

Valid Jun. 17

- Oct. 31

Valid May. 15

- Oct. 31

In-Season Golf Package

Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort

Stay and golf at the Van Kleek-designed Award-winning championship course at Whiteface Club & Resort. Package Includes: - 2 nights' stay at Cambria Hotel Lake Placid. - 2 rounds of unlimited golf with a cart for 18 holes.

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Romance Package

Surprise your significant other with a romantic Getaway!  Includes roses, wine glasses, and chocolates upon arrival.

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

MILITARY AND FIRST RESPONDER OFFER

Bluebird Lake Placid

10% off our Best Available Rate for all active as well as retired military personnel, and first responders on leisure stays.

Valid Feb. 6

- Feb. 29

Valid Feb. 6

- Feb. 29

Ampersand Bay Resort Sweetheart Package

Dinner for 2 at the Sunset Bistro ($150 value) Chocolate Covered Strawberries and a Bottle of Champagne in the room on arrival. 1pm late check out.

Valid May. 1

- Jun. 16

Valid Feb. 20

- Jun. 15

Pre-Season Golf Package

Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort

Pre-Season Golf from May 1- June 16. Stay two nights at the Cambria Hotel Lake Placid and play two rounds of unlimited golf and a cart at the Van Kleek-designed Award-winning championship course at Whiteface Club & Resort.

Valid Jan. 9

- Dec. 31

Valid Jan. 9

- Dec. 31

Couples Getaway

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Escape with your loved one to a truly romantic experience - sparkling wine and chocolate-covered strawberries overlooking spectacular views of Mirror Lake and the Adirondack High Peaks is just the beginning...

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Spa Experience

What better way to connect and relax with your partner after a long day on the mountain than to enjoy an in-room spa experience for two?

Valid Apr. 6

- Apr. 6

Valid Feb. 21

- Apr. 6

Solar Eclipse Storytime

The Bookstore Plus

Come learn about a solar eclipse and make cereal box viewers with us!

Valid Apr. 6

- Apr. 9

Valid Jan. 8

- Apr. 9

2024 Eclipse at the Mirror Lake Inn

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Join us for a once in a lifetime opportunity to view solar eclipse with luxurious accommodations, breakfast at 'The View' Restaurant, Eclipse Viewing Glasses & $50 resort credit per room per night.

Valid Jan. 8

- Jan. 8

Valid Jan. 8

- Jan. 8

Adirondack a la Carte

High Peaks Resort

Complete your Adirondack Vacation with a $150 dining credit to Dancing Bears!

Valid Jan. 11

- May. 1

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Nordic Ski With Olympic Medalist Andrea Henkel Burke

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Stay and Nordic Ski with an Olympic Gold Medal Recipient!

Valid Mar. 29

- Apr. 4

Valid Mar. 5

- Apr. 4

Winter Clearance at Whiteface!

Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort

40% off Select Items!

Valid May. 3

- May. 5

Valid Feb. 20

- May. 1

Immersion into Tantra Yoga

Cambria Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort

Nourish your body and mind by indulging in a weekend of growth with Todd Norian, founder of Ashaya Yoga.

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Golf & Stay Package

Crowne Plaza Lake Placid

Starting at: $119.00 * Weekend & Summer packages available at higher rates

Valid Jan. 11

- Mar. 31

Valid Jan. 11

- Mar. 31

Celebrate 2024 with 24% OFF!

Grand Adirondack Hotel

Winter adventure and snow-kissed peaks beckon! Celebrate 2024 with a 24% discount on stays Sunday-Thursday through March. Rate is 24 percent off our Retail rates. Rate is fully prepaid and non-refundable. Available select weekdays through March 2024...

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

4th Night Free!

Lake Placid Lodge

Enjoy a night on us! 4th night free when you stay 3.

Valid Jan. 12

- Jan. 12

Valid Jan. 12

- Jan. 12

Supper & Stay

Enhance your stay at The Lake Placid Stagecoach Inn with an exceptional 3-course meal.

Valid Apr. 5

- Apr. 10

Valid Feb. 23

- Apr. 10

Total Eclipse of the Park IPA

Lake Placid Pub & Brewery

Get your hands on some Out-of-this-World beer before its gone!

Valid Jan. 12

- Jan. 12

Valid Jan. 12

- Jan. 12

Outdoor Adventure Package

The Devlin

Maximize your time in the outdoors: book your room and a boat rental through HK Boat Rentals.

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Valid Jan. 11

- Jan. 11

Adirondack Guides

Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa

Get the most out of your stay - Guide Services Available!

Valid Jan. 11

- Jun. 15

Valid Jan. 11

- Jun. 15

Stay 2 Midweek Nights and Receive a 3rd Round of Golf with Cart FREE!

Lake Placid Club Golf Courses

Stay 2 Midweek Nights and Receive a 3rd Round of Golf with Cart FREE! *Rates are per person, per night based on double occupancy in a standard room. Available Sunday-Thursday, Opening Day-mid June. Tax not included. Subject to availability. US $

Load More