Tabletop was the first peak with a designated herd path to keep hikers on the more durable terrain.
How to get there
From the intersection of Route 73 and Route 86 in Lake Placid follow Route 73 toward Keene. Continue for just over 3-miles to Adirondack Loj Road on the right. Follow here to the end at Heart Lake and the Adirondack Loj. There is paid parking ($10 as of 2013).
By the numbers
- Elevation: 4.427 feet
- Elevation gain: 2,270 feet
- Distance: Approximately 9.8 miles, round trip
- Tabletop is High Peak #19
- Follow Leave No Trace principles
Hiking
This hike starts from the Adirondack Loj and follows a highly traveled route to Marcy Dam where unbelievable views can be had of the High Peaks and Avalanche Pass. From here it continues along a scenic trail following Phelps Brook toward Mount Marcy. The trail passes by the Phelps Trail, which is a short but steep 1-mile hike to another High Peak. You will approach a height-of-land along the trail at an intersection with a ski trail; the herd-path for Tabletop Mountain is here as well. This herd-path is about 0.1 miles before Indian Falls.
From the turn onto the herd path it is about 0.5 miles to the summit.
The herd-path has a trail sign marking its location. It is very narrow in areas, heavily eroded and has running water during most months of the year. Views back toward Avalanche Pass can be had as you approach the summit. The summit is totally wooded, but located just beyond the signed summit are open views of the Great Range and the High Peaks within.
Snowshoeing
Tabletop Mountain in winter is mostly protected from wind. Herd-path is typically broken out. Expect cold temperatures and heavy snow accumulation. Trail is very narrow with heavy snow on trees. Can be skied to the base of the mountain at the location of the her-path.