Moderate Hikes

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. 

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.

A little bit of effort goes a long way

We can't say these hikes are easy, but they will take you to some pretty amazing places. Get you up close and personal with one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the Adirondacks at Beaver Meadow Falls, or hike to Whiteface Landing and go swimming in Lake Placid, then contemplate whether you're up for the steep ascent of Whiteface Mountain, New York's fifth highest peak. If Whiteface seems like a bit much, try Hurricane Mountain

If 2 to 4 hours is stretching it, try some easier 1 to 2 hour hikes, or check out our 4 to 8 hour hikes if you want something more challenging.

The Adirondack Hiking Essentials

1. Navigation

  • Sign in at the trail head
  • Map of your route
  • Area trail guide book or maps
  • Compass
  • GPS 

2. Don't get burned- bring sun protection

  •  Sunscreen
  •  Lip balm
  •  Sunglasses

3. Proper clothing and insulation

  • Jacket, vest, pants, gloves, hat
  • See Clothing below based on season/weather

4. Don't get left in the dark

  • Flash light or head lamp with an optional spare
  • Extra batteries for any equipment

5. First-aid supplies

  • A complete First-aid kit 

6. Be prepared with fire essentials

  • Matches or lighter
  • Waterproof container
  • Fire starter for an emergency survival fire
  • Remember to never leave a fire unattended and to be sure it is completely out before abandoning the site

7. Tools and supplies

  • Knife, Swiss army or a multi-use pocket tool 
  • Kits for stove, mattress; duct tape strips

8. Keep energy up with proper nutrition

  • Energy food (bars, gels, chews, trail mix)
  • Energy beverages or drink mixes
  • Lunch
  • Extra day's supply of food

9. Stay hydrated- always bring enough water

  • Water bottles, camel back or another portable hydration system
  • Electrolyte tablets or powder
  • Water filter or other treatment system

10. Emergency shelter

  • Tent, tarp, bivy and a reflective blanket
  • More than the 10 hiking essentials
  • Multifunction watch with altimeter
  • Binoculars
  • Trekking poles
  • Insect repellent and a head net
  • Toilet paper
  • Hand sanitizer or hand wipes
  • Two-way radios
  • Camera
  • Cell or satellite phone
  • Interpretive field guides for fauna and wildlife
  • Post-hike snacks, water, towel, clothing change
  • Trash bag for clean up
  • Swim suits

Warm weather clothing options

  • Moisture Wicking T-shirt and underwear
  • Quick-drying pants or shorts
  • Long-sleeve shirt both for bugs and sun protection
  • Hat with a brim or neck cover for sun-shielding 
  • Fleece jacket or cover up with insulation
  • Bandanna, head scarf or buff

Cool weather clothing options

  • Thermal moisture wicking long-sleeve T-shirt
  • Long underwear
  • Hats, face mask or cover up
  • Gloves or mittens
  • Jacket providing insulation, temperature based
  • Rain jacket and waterproof pants
  • Insulated winter pants weather dependent

For winter hiking check out our cold weather preparedness blog and winter essential gear guide.

Proper footwear

  • Hiking boots or shoes suited to terrain, preferably with ankle protection
  • Synthetic or wool socks and a second pair
  • Gaiters
  • Sandals (for river fording, trip home)
  • Crampons for ice

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

Results for "2 - 4 Hour Hikes"

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Where
Marcy Field
Keene

Marcy Field is many things: a public-use airport, the site of a farmers market, a hiking trailhead, and a place where your dogs can run in an open field.

  
Haystack Mountain
Route 86, Ray Brook

Not to be confused with the High Peak Mountain Haystack, this one is in Ray Brook and offers a friendlier climb. It features a pleasant woods walk with afinal steep climb leads to an open rock face and ledge.

  
Catamount Mountain
Forestdale Road, Wilmington

Catamount Mountain in one of the more popular gems of the Whiteface Region. With its two open summits, it affords spectacular views of the entire region.

  
Beaver Meadow Falls
Route 73, Keene Valley

Beaver Meadow Falls is a popular, picturesque waterfall in the Adirondacks, commonly passed by when hikers are going up Gothics and the Upper Great Range.

  
Bloomingdale Bog Trail
Route 86, Saranac Lake

The Bloomingdale Bog Trail is a scenic, end-to-end path that follows an old railroad corridor that connects Saranac Lake to Bloomingdale. The entire route is wide, level, and mostly straight, making it perfect for a casual stroll or bike ride.

  
Bear Den Mountain
5021 Route 86, Wilmington

Bear Den Mountain is located high above the West Branch of the Ausable River and has really unique views of the Whiteface Mountain Ski Area. 

  
Round Mountain
Route 73, Keene Valley

Round Mountain is a rocky summit adjacent to the more popular Noonmark Mountain, and can be hike a few different ways. 

  
Rooster Comb Mountain
Route 73, Keene Valley

Full panoramic views and a fun trail make Rooster Comb an excellent choice for a hike!

  
Little Porter Mountain
12942 NY-73Marcy Field, Keene

NOTE: The trail up Little Porter Mountain from the Garden parking area is closed until further notice. This mountain can be approached from the Marcy Field and Cascade Mountain trailheads. Little Porter is a rocky ledge with an expansive view on the...

  
Cathedral Rocks and Pyramid Falls Loop
Route 73, Keene

This loop can be a wonderful family hike with some interesting natural features and fun terrain.

  
Noonmark Mountain
24-78 Ausable RdSt. Huberts Parking Area, Keene Valley

Noonmark is one of the higher mountains in the Adirondacks and is part of the Adirondack 100-highest peaks. With outstanding views and fun climbing experiences this tends to be a very popular hike in the summer and fall.

  
Blueberry Mountain
Route 73, Keene Valley

Although Blueberry Mountain is a gateway to Porter Mt. and Cascade Mt. it is typically hiked by itself and not in conjunction with the High Peaks.