1 - 2 Hour Hikes

Trail Closures

Due to the recent Halloween storm, which brought damaging winds and floods to much of northern New York, the state Department of Environmental Conservation has announced that some trails, parking areas, and access roads are closed due to damage, wash-outs, or blow-down. Check here for more information on specific closures.

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 — check out the top of Cobble, and you'll be amazed that you're still right in the village of Lake Placid! 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

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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Spring is always a great time to hike to waterfalls.

Knoblock Falls

Route 9N, Keene

(518) 523-2445

This destination lies off any developed and mapped trail system; the use and understanding of GPS and/or map and compass is highly recommended. When traveling off-trail you will experience hazards not realized on a trail, expect more difficult and...

Washbowl

Route 73, Keene Valley

(518) 523-2445

Hiking The Washbowl is an easy hike for children or photographers. There is a nice view just before the Washbowl. A nice two-fer with Chapel Pond providing a popular swimming spot. Washbowl via Chapel Pond Trailhead: South on Route 73 from Lake...

Blueberry Cobbles

Route 9, Elizabethtown

(518) 523-2445

This aptly-named mountain is the first summit on the East Trail to Rocky Peak and Giant at 1.9 miles from Rt. 9. Berries in season? The best ones are beyond the first lookout (1.9 miles) on the summit ledges at 2.2 miles. This hike is good for the...

Owen, Copperas, and Winch Ponds

Route 86, Wilmington

(518) 523-2445

These three ponds are located in the Sentinel Range and offer excellent loop opportunities. There are two trails that lead into the area and either can be used to create a loop to the three ponds. Copperas Pond offers great camping potentials with a...

LaChute River Walk

Ticonderoga

(518) 585-6366

Hiking LaChute River Walk Trailhead: Ticonderoga Heritage Museum - 4 miles RT, Easy Walk Nature and Historic Walks Take a lovely loop around Bicentennial Park with many interpretive signboards to learn about history and nature. Time in hours: Family...

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...

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...

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.

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...

Adirondack Center Museum Nature Walk

7590 Court Street, Elizabethtown

(518) 873-6466

Visit a restored fire tower and the Colonial Garden with a .5 mile nature trail. Trailhead: on the grounds of the Adirondack Center Museum, Easy Walk Time in hours: Family with Young Kids: Round Trip: .75 Experienced Hiker: Round Trip: .2 Out of Shape...

Heaven Hill Trails

Bear Cub Rd, Lake Placid

(518) 523-2445

Heaven Hill is a multi-use trail system that offers breathtaking scenery with very little effort. It's great for families or anyone looking for an easy stroll with mountain vistas. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing The trails are open and...

Flume Knob

Route 86, Wilmington

(518) 523-2445

The Flume Knob is another hidden gem in the Wilmington Region that should not go unmissed. 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...