A trip to the Adirondacks isn't complete without experiencing one of our hiking trails. They're accessible year round, and there are hundreds of miles of paths to explore. Some people flock here for the big mountains but our short hikes are a great place to start, especially if you're new to hiking. 

Be prepared

We love our mountains, and you should too! Please help us protect them by enjoying them responsibly. Before heading out, review Leave No Trace principles, make sure you're prepared for the journey ahead, and familiarize yourself with regulations and weather in the mountains.

The Department of Environmental Conservation is a great resource for more outdoor recreation related information.

Short, sweet, and what a view!

Many of our short hikes offer up a great outdoor experience that's complete with a beautiful view. There are a variety of walking and easy hiking options for you and your family to enjoy in the Lake Placid Region — find your favorite and make some great family memories! 

So get out there and stretch your legs, get in touch with nature, explore something new and go home saying you hiked in the Adirondacks.

If you're looking for hikes and mountains that are a little more challenging, check out some of the 2 to 4 hour hikes that the Adirondacks are known for.

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.

Seven Principles of Leave No Trace

walking
Take it easy!

Not in the mood for a big, day-long adventure? No worries. These scenic walks are full of scenic delights and are perfect for a short adventure.

Let's explore
winter trees
Need more?

Curious for some more adventure? Try these trails are that are a bit longer, but totally worth every step.

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Little Cherrypatch Pond
State Route 86Lake Placid, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Hiking Route Overview At the back of the parking area there is a herd path that leads to the shore of the pond. The path is easy enough to follow but not marked. There is minimal elevation change as you hike the roughly quarter mile. Trailhead From...

  
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
115 John Brown Road, Lake Placid
(518) 523-3900

Hiking John Brown Farm in the town of North Elba is the home and gravesite of abolitionist John Brown. John Brown died in the pursuit of freedom of slaves, and after an assault on Harpers Ferry to obtain arms in 1859 he was hanged in Virginia. His...

  
Henry's Woods
Bear Cub Lane, Lake Placid
(518) 523-3061

Henry’s Woods, which is owned and maintained by the Uihlein Foundation, is a community preserve located just outside the village of Lake Placid. The caretakers of this beautiful property and the Uihlein Foundation invite the public to use these trails.

  
Balanced Rocks
Route 73, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Hiking Note: The parking area for Pitchoff often fills quickly, especially in the summer. Consider choosing a less popular, and less crowded, trail. The Balanced Rocks are located 1.6 miles up the trail to Pitchoff Mountain. The 2.7-mile long Pitchoff...

  
Rocky Falls is a gem of a hike.
Rocky Falls is a gem of a hike.
Rocky Falls
Heart Lake, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

This is a gentle walk to a lovely, miniature waterfall. This hike's charm is the easy route and the lovely setting. At the Adirondack Loj, follow signs to the Indian Pass trail, which first proceeds along the shore of Heart Lake and then heads to the...

  
First ice on the edge of Echo Lake.
First ice on the edge of Echo Lake.
Echo Lake
Mount Whitney RoadLake Placid, Lake Placid
(518) 523-3441

From the parking area, follow the trail and turn left on the Long Trail. You will descend back down along an old road and eventually reach a foot trail to the south shore of Echo Lake. The lake is quite small, and the best views are at the far end. At...

  
South Meadow
Meadow Lane, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

You may think of South Meadow is simply as a place to park your car when hiking into the High Peaks Region, but it’s so much more than that.

  
Mt. Jo
Adirondak Loj Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

A great mountain for families and beginners, Mt. Jo's open summit ledges provide one of the best views of the High Peaks for relatively little effort.

  
Cobble Hill
Mirror Lake Drive, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Cobble Hill, a local favorite, is a great hike, but please be aware of new trail and parking conditions in 2021.

  
Monument Falls
Route 86, Wilmington
(518) 523-2445

Hiking Follow the path to, and along, the Ausable River for an easy trip suitable for small children. The Monuments commemorate the 50th, and 100th Anniversary of the establishment of the Adirondack Park. Find out more Read our blog post about...

  
Little Crow to Big Crow
959-839 County Hwy 13Hurricane Road, Keene
(518) 523-2445

The actual summit of Little Crow Mountain is a large rock cairn in the woods on the blue trail. Snowshoeing From the Hurricane Road Trailhead start by snowshoeing past a private residence, this is very close to your right. Soon the trail begins to...

  
Flume Knob
Route 86, Wilmington
(518) 523-2445

The Flume Knob is another hidden gem in the Wilmington Region that should not be missed. Using the region's mountain biking trails as an approach makes for an outstanding day trip for the entire family. Primary Trailhead: From the intersection of...

  
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