Full Day & Half Day Hiking Adventure

A full day or half day hike in the high peaks region is a great way to spend your vacation in the Adirondacks. These hikes usually take 4 - 8 hours and are best for adults and older children as they are longer and typically more challenging hikes, which might not be suitable for the littlest of hikers. We suggest 1 - 2 hour or 2 - 4 hour hikes for kids under 10. 

There are a variety of half day to full day hikes in the Adirondacks, so many you can always find a new trail to try! A popular hike is Giant Mountain with a trail head located right off Route 73 just outside of Keene.  Whiteface Mountain, our 5th High Peak, offers access at a few start off points, and is a hike not to be missed. Browse our other half day and full day hikes below and find one perfect to complete your trip to Lake Placid.

Gear Check List

When planning a half or full day of hiking in the High Peaks there are a few things you should be sure to include:

• Water, and plenty of it, there may be water along the trail, but you shouldn't count on it
• Water filter or Iodine tablets, are another option, especially on hot days, note: plan to go through more water than you'd expect
• Sturdy and supportive shoes, don't try to hike in sandals or flip flops
• Backpack
• Food for the day
• Protective clothing, sometimes the tops of the mountains are much cooler than you'd expect, consider brining a waterproof jacket
• Napkins, toilet paper, plastic bags, and remember to carry out what you bring in
• Flashlight (or headlamp) with extra bulbs and batteries  and yes, this is a day hike, but for safety sake, it's easy to come down off the mountain later than you intended; making the flashlight indispensable
• First Aid kit
• Gloves, in case you reach steep portions and need to use your hands, but also extra warmth may be needed at the summit
• Camera
• Sunblock
• Insect repellent
• Extra pair of socks 

If you're looking for a more challenging hike, consider a full day hike in the Adirondacks and satisfy your wilderness needs.