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

heaven hill
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
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Adventure ahead

We're biased, but we really think Lake Placid has it all, especially for hiking and walking. Lake Placid has excellent short hikes and walks in close proximity to downtown, so you don't have to go far to get in some sweet exercise and adventure.

Onward!
Want something longer?
Want something longer?

It's the perfect day — lunch on a mountain followed by a satisfying dinner in town. The best thing about half-day hikes is finding yourself someplace scenic with plenty of time to enjoy the view before the sun sets.

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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...

  
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...

  
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...

  
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...

  
Peninsula Nature Trails
Brewster Peninsula Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Hiking The Brewster Peninsula Trails are located on the shores of Lake Placid and are tucked back on a dirt road. The DEC has worked to use old access roads and selected new trails to develop this year-round destination for short, fun afternoon outings.

  
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...

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

The lowdown 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. There are two trails to the top so it's easy to make a loop hike out of this adventure...

  
Roaring Brook Falls
Route 73, Keene Valley
(518) 523-2445

Hiking Keep the river to the right and you will arrive at the base of Roaring Brook Falls. Slides from 1963 widened this site to the spectacular look it has today. Roaring Brook Falls Trailhead: Route 73, 3.3 miles South of the High Peaks sign in...

  
Giant's Nubble
Route 73, Keene Valley
(518) 523-2445

The first mile follows the Zander Scott Ridge Trail toward Giant Mountain's summit. After a stiff climb, the path passes a nice view of the Chapel Pond slab -- it's a lovely spot for a breather. After the view, a short straightaway ends at Giant's...

  
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...

  
Stag Brook Falls
5021 New York 86, Wilmington
(518) 946-2255

Stag Brook Falls is an excellent couple hours of hiking along an attractive brook with numerous waterfalls and cascades. Picnic benches, nature signs, and swimming are available along the way. Primary Trailhead: From the intersection of Route 73 and...

  
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. Hiking Soon the trail begins to climb slightly as it makes its way through an open hardwood forest up to some very rocky sections. Soon you come to a...

  
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