May 15, 2013
The Balanced Boulders is a classic Adirondack Mountain hike for all makes and models of outdoor enthusiasts. It is also one of those hikes that I like to guide for those who only want a half day outing, but want some serious bang for their buck, no pun intended. Seriously, if you have not visited the Balanced Rocks you are truly missing out on the jewel of Sentinel Range. Yes, it's part of the daunting Sentinel Range, just like Stewart and Kilburn and about a half dozen other trailless peaks, but, what's nice about this, there's a perfectly good trail right up to them.

So over the last few days I had been planning were to take a small group of business men and women, but they only had 3-4 hours to spare before they needed to be back in Lake Placid for a meeting, the Balanced Boulders again, perfect! We loaded up the High Peaks van and off we went, shooting up some serious chitchat with a bit of historical sightseeing, and on the way we all become very comfortable with each other and our own brand of humor.

The hike, as always, kind of starts out with a bit of panting, at a slow pace, as it climbs steadily from Route 73 to the ridge, but with that came perfect timing to do a bit of wildflower education. We noted purple trilliums by the dozens and couple painted trilliums here and there. A few patched of Dutchman's breeches appeared along the base of some birch trees. Since it was early afternoon the spring beauties and trout lilies were opening up for the day, to suck in the warm sunshine. Then lastly the interesting witch hobble, that warmed the dull ground with its white spiral patterned flowers.

The ridge then welcomed us to our first overlook and then the second, before we finally scrambled to the top of the third amazing overlook. This view gave us perfect photographs of the #7 Slide on Cascade and the Cascade Waterfall, which was flowing white from hundreds of feet high.

From top of Balanced Rocks

The final push up the eroded trail and over rocky terrain, gained us more views before topped off on the main ridge.  The views along the spur trail to the rocks were awe inspiring, making everyone stand up and take notice. Once we removed our packs and snaps a few pictures I introduced everyone to the "Wind Tunnel." The "Wind Tunnel" is simply a cleft in the mountain located below the boulders that will lead out to a natural overhanging rock ceiling. This area is unique and is often missed by visitors.

Rock Ceiling

Hiking Down the Trail, Cascade in Background and #7 Slide

After a short break and a snack we were right on schedule for the climbers to be back at the

hotel for cocktails and a meeting of the minds. If you are interested in this same half day outing or want to make it a full day by traversing the entire ridge, check out a local guide service in the Lake Placid Region.

Route Map

 

From top of Balanced Rocks
Rock Ceiling
Hiking Down the Trail, Cascade in Background and #7 Slide
Route Map

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