The Adirondack 46 High Peaks

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. A successful hike of any 46er involves research, physical fitness, the right gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles

Winter in the High Peaks

All of the 46 High Peaks are challenging in the winter, and should only be attempted by experienced hikers, so make sure you are prepared. Snowshoes and microspikes are necessary, and crampons are needed on many of them as well. Plan on temperatures in the higher elevations being at least 20 degrees colder than at the trailhead, not including the windchill. Bring several extra non-cotton layers, a headlamp with spare batteries, extra food, a windbreaker, goggles, a face mask, and supplies for spending the night in case of an emergency. Water crossings can be especially dangerous during the beginning and end of winter. Always use caution at water crossings, turning around is always an option. 

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.

 

 

 

 

Results for "46 High Peaks"

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Mount Skylight
Heart Lake, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Mount Skylight is the fourth highest peak in New York state, and is a challenging hike not to be taken lightly.

  
Street and Nye Mountains
Adirondak Loj Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 523-3441

A successful hike of Street and Nye involves research, physical fitness, the right gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles. 

  
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.

  
Tabletop Mountain
Adirondak Loj Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 523-3441 ext.121

Tabletop Mountain is the 19th highest of the Adirondack 46 High Peaks. It is a serious hike that requires preparation.

  
Wright Peak
Heart Lake, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Hiking This Adirondack 46 High Peak is #16 on the list and #1 for wind factor. A B-47 bomber crashed here in 1962, and most of the wreckage remains. Wright peak can also be combined with Algonquin Peak, Rong Peak, and Iroquois Peak for a long day. The...

  
Gray Peak
Adirondak Loj Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 837-5047

Gray Peak is the 7th tallest of the Adirondack High Peaks. It is a steep, long, and serious hike that requires significant preparation.

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

Iroquois is the 8th tallest of the Adirondack 46 High Peaks, and is most often climbed with the other two main peaks of the MacIntyre Range, Algonquin Peak and Wright Peak.

  
Mount Redfield
Adirondak Loj Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 523-3441

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.

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

Cliff Mountain is one of the most challenging High Peaks, with a hike up the cliff face that is extremely steep and in many situations slippery.

  
Mount Marshall
Lake Placid
(518) 523-3441 ext.121

Mount Marshall is the 25th tallest of the Adirondack High Peaks, and is a steep, serious hike that requires significant preparation and navigational skill.

  
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 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.