Over 4,000 Feet

Big, bold, and beautiful, the Adirondack High Peaks have been a magnet for explorers for more than 150 years. The original list of High Peaks included the 46 Adirondack mountains that were higher than 4,000 feet in elevation. Later, it was determined that one mountain had been overlooked and four of the original group were actually a little lower than 4,000 feet.

These days, people seeking the coveted 46er patch must summit the mountains on the original list. Most of the High Peaks are located in the Lake Placid/Keene-Keene Valley area.

Roughly twenty of the High Peaks do not have a marked trail to the top. On those mountains unmaintained, unmarked herd paths have developed over the years. These paths are generally easy to follow, but anyone attempting them should know how to use a map and compass. Hikers are urged to buy a good hiking guidebook or to hire an Adirondack guide.

Leave No Trace and Love Your ADK

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

In winter, it is especially important to come prepared and practice ways to Love Your ADK; the best way to avoid emergencies is to properly plan and prepare for your trip.

 

 

Results for "46 High Peaks"

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Iroquois Peak
Adirondak Loj Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Hiking Iroquois is the third peak along the MacIntyre Mountain Range and is most often climbed with Algonquin Peak and Wright Peak. The primary route as you see ascends most of Wright and all of Algonquin on the way. Iroquois is one of the High Peaks...

  
Gray Peak
Adirondak Loj Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Gray Peak is the tallest of the trailless High Peaks and has an act of putting on two totally different faces depending on the season. In summer it is slightly treed with stunted growth, in winter the trees are buried and it resembles that of a bald...

  
Phelps Mountain
Adirondak Loj Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Hiking Phelps Mountain is the 32nd highest peak in the Adirondacks. Phelps can be found east of Marcy Dam and north of Mount Marcy. Resting in the heart of the High Peaks Wilderness Area it boasts some of the best views in the park. The hike starts...

  
Cliff Mountain
Adirondak Loj Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Cliff Mountain is one of the most challenging High Peaks. While the views are decent along the climb, the approach to the climb is very demanding.

  
Street and Nye Mountains
Adirondak Loj Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Often climbed with Nye Mountain, Street is a more rewarding experience as it does have some views. While views are lacking from the true summit a faint herd-path leading a few yards southwest from the summit, opens up outstanding views of the...

  
Mount Marcy
Adirondack Loj, Lake Placid
(518) 837-5047

Mount Marcy is the highest of the High Peaks, and its impressive presence commands the view from many other peaks.

  
Algonquin Peak
Adirondak Loj Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 523-3441 ext.121

Algonquin Peak is the second highest mountain in New York state, and the hike up it should not be taken lightly.

  
Mount Redfield
Adirondak Loj Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Redfield was named for Professor William C. Redfield: meteorologist, organizer of, and participant in, the first recorded ascent of Mount Marcy. This High Peak is trailless so use of map/compass is required.

  
Cascade Mountain
Route 73, Lake Placid
(518) 837-5047

Cascade is generally considered to be the "easiest" of the 46 High Peaks, but that doesn't mean it's not a challenge! Sweeping views are only reached after ascending almost 2,000 feet...

  
Mount Marshall
Lake Placid

Marshall's tree covered summit is less impressive than the wondrous trail which leads up to it. With numerous waterfalls along Herbert Brook, and great views of the Flowed Lands, you will not be lacking for photographic opportunities.

  
Mountain Pass Lodge Hiking Center
31 Van Hoevenberg Way, Lake Placid

The new hiking center at the Mountain Pass Lodge at Mount Van Hoevenberg provides hikers with the opportunity to regroup before or after a hike, and use front country amenities before heading off on the trail.

  
Mount Colden
Adirondak Loj Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Mount Colden is one of the more popular mountains in the High Peaks, and with good reason: the hike is challenging and beautiful.