The views from the Dix Range are some of the best in the Northeast! With five different mountains, this traverse offers something rugged and adventurous for hikers. This range includes five of the 46 High Peaks: Macomb, Grace Peak, Carson Peak, Hough, and Dix Mountain. 

This is a rugged hike and we highly recommended hikers use a map and compass (and guide book) or hire a local guide. The terrain is steep and there are exposed sections. And at over 15-miles, this loop covers a great distance with lots of elevation gains and descents. Hiking these mountains all together in a loop is the preferred option. One important thing to note: expect for the trails leading up to Dix Mountain, there are no official trails in this Range. Most of it is traversed via herd paths. Hikers should be prepared to navigate the backcountry with use of map and compass.

The Dix Range by the numbers

Dix is the 6th High Peak, at 4857 ft.

Macomb is the 21st High Peak, at 4405 ft.

Hough is the 23rd High Peak, at 4400 ft.

Carson Peak (formally South Dix) is the 37th High Peak, at 4060 ft.

Grace Peak (formerly East Dix) is the 42nd High Peak, at 4012 ft.

How to get there

The following descriptions describe hiking the Dix Range from the Elk Lake trailhead. To get there, take Exit 29 on I-87 and follow Blue Ridge Road to the west, toward Newcomb. Continue for 4-miles to Elk Lake Road on the right. (There is a sign for the Elk Lake Lodge.) Follow this road to the hiker parking, near the end.

Hiking

From the parking lot at Elk Lake Lodge, follow a very well used marked trail to the Slide Brook campsites and lean-to. After crossing Slide Brook, go right and up through a campsite to access the very plain (in most conditions) herd-path that proceeds high above the brook through a peaceful forest before descending slightly to the base of the slide. The slide is mostly rubble, scree, and loose sand. It's very steep making for even harder footing, especially if descending. The upper portion of the slide is a bit tough to exit but once you do, you will be back in the trees for a bit further to the summit. Once above the slide, the summit is still a steep climb through the forest, but not all that far away. The views from Macomb are quite nice, but only in one direction back toward and over Elk Lake. The herd path to South Dix heads over the summit area and down the ridge.

South Dix is the next mountain in the Dix Range loop. Keep in mind, this can only be climbed in combination with other mountains in the range; there is no direct trail or herd path. South Dix has a wooded summit with limited views, but excellent views can be had from the south shoulder, which is on the route from Macomb.

Next up is Grace Peak (formally East Dix). Grace Peak is not directly on herd path loop for the Dix Range; it's a bid of an outlier. That said, it's only a short jaunt over to it's summit. Remember still, while the paths are relatively plain, there are no markers on this route. The summit is a mix of open rock and trees. A large boulder marks the true summit.

Following a visit to Grace Peak, hikers continue on the loop to Hough (pronounced "huff"). Hough isn't the biggest mountain in the range, but it does offer some unique and mind blowing views of the area. Hough is possibly the most memorable of the five peaks in the Dix Range. Hough is one of the tougher sections in the range with tight herd-path conditions and rock scrambling to boot.

From Hough, descend steeply into a col between a sub-summit called "Pough" and Dix Mountain. It's another steep climb to the summit of Dix, where hikers are greeted with open views of the surrounding area. From Dix, hikers can descent back to the Elk Lake parking lot via the Beckhorn Trail or Hunter's Pass. Hunter's Pass is a longer trail but slightly less steep than the Beckhorn. After a long day on the trail, most hikers prefer to take the Beckhorn Trail, which is marked, along with Hunter's Pass. Eventually the trail levels out, and hiking along a flatter section will be a welcomed break for your knees. Keep in mind, though, this section may be muddy.

Read more on our blog here: The Dix Range Traverse.

Dix Range in winter

This route in the winter can be very challenging. There is a good chance it will not be broken out and hikers should be prepared to expend extra energy hiking through deep powder. In addition to winter conditions, parking is also a difference for hiking in this season. The lot at the end of Elk Lake Road is closed and hikers will need to park at Clear Pond, which is located 2-miles from the the trailhead, adding 4-miles to the trip RT. 

Camping

Along the trail from the Elk Lake parking area to Dix Pond, look for eight primitive campsites and the Slide Brook and Lillian Brook lean-tos.

Camping between 3,500 feet and 4,000 feet is limited to designated campsites. Camping above 4,000 feet is prohibited.

History

Two mountains in this range have a very interesting history, and names to boot! East Dix was renamed to Grace Peak recently in commemoration of Grace Hudowalski, who was the first woman to climb the 46 High Peaks. Grace became Forty-Sixer #9 August 22, 1937 on Esther. She worked for New York State to promote tourism and devoted the rest of her time to advocate the importance of stewardship, of protecting the mountains and of maintaining trails adequately. She was a founding member of the Adirondack Forty-Sixers and served as the Club’s first President (1948-1951) and Historian until 1995. South Dix is in the process of being renamed Carson Peak, in commemoration of Russell M.L. Carson, a charter member and past president of the Adirondack Mountain Club. He is the author of "Peaks and People of the Adirondacks," the first authoritative history of Adirondack mountains, their naming, and their climbing history.

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. Mt. Marshall is the southernmost peak in the MacIntyre Mountain Range and named to honor of Robert Marshall who, with his brother George, is one of the original ADK 46ers. 

How to get there

From exit 29 off I-87, turn west onto Blue Ridge Road (CR 84) toward Newcomb. Follow this route for 17.4 miles to an intersection with Tahawus Road (CR 25). Turn right on Tahawus Road and stay on it for 6.3 miles then turn left at a sign for High Peaks trails. Pass by the old blast furnace at 2.8 miles up this road. From the blast furnace, it is less than one mile to your destination. The road dead ends at the Upper Works parking lot. From here, you can follow the marked trail to Flowed Lands, eventually picking up the herd path to Mount Marshall.

UPPER WORKS PARKING UPDATE

Our friends at Open Space Institute have announced that effective June 18, 2021, please use the new parking lot adjacent to the MacNaughton Cottage. The old parking lot (terminus of Upper Works Road) will be closed for construction. Unauthorized vehicles in the old parking lot after June 18, 2021 will be towed away at vehicle owners expense. Signage has been placed throughout the old parking lot. They, and we, do not want any surprises for anyone. Thank you and Happy trails! This new parking will not add significant milage to your trip.

There is an alternative route leaving from the HPIC. From exit 29 off I-87, follow the highway north to exit 30. Follow Route 73 from here toward Lake Placid. Stay on Route 73 for just over 26 miles. Turn left onto Adirondack Loj Road. Follow Adirondack Loj Road to its end at Heart Lake and park in the main parking lot. Small parking fees will be required. ($10 as of 2013)

By the numbers

• Elevation: 4,360 feet
• Elevation gain: about 2,515 feet from Upper Works, 2,575 from HPIC
• See distances for each footpath below
• Marshall is High Peak #25
• Follow Leave No Trace principles

Hiking

There are two herd paths that lead to the summit of Mount Marshall. Please be aware that for most of this hike you will be on a marked trail, but the final ascent to the summit will be on a herd path. Map and compass are necessary to navigate the backcountry in these conditions. There are many worn paths around Marshall; it's critical you know which one to follow.

Leaving from Upper Works ... 

This is an approximate 6.5 mile hike, one way. Starting from Upper Works you will need to be prepared for a very long day. This route is typically used by those camping in the Flowed Lands or Lake Colden Region. From the parking you will have a very long and somewhat flat approach which initially starts along an old woods road. As the route narrows back to a foot trail you will follow along some attractive waterways and eventually climb modestly to the shore of Flowed Lands. From Flowed Lands you will hike its perimeter along a difficult trail to the herd-path along Herbert Brook; a cairn marked the herd-path on your left. The route is now much narrower and follows along the brook to your left. The terrain starts out moderate with a couple steep ascent sections. As you follow the brook, there are excellent views back into the valley; this is where the waterfalls start to come into view. Once the herd-path leaves the brook, expect the terrain to get much steeper, because it does. There is one excellent viewing area along the summit ridge before you reach the treed summit. A short walk to the north of about 20 yards will score you a nice view of Iroquois Peak.

Leaving from the HPIC ...

This is an approximate 9 mile hike, one way rolling to steep terrain. This route is used mainly by those camping in the Lake Colden Region and climbing multiple peaks over the course of 2-4 days.

From the Loj follow the hikers approach trail to the High Peaks that leads to Marcy Dam. From Marcy Dam you will need to follow the trail to Avalanche Pass. You will pass by Avalanche Camps, the mile or so past Avalanche Camps is where you begin to climb. Passing by a couple newer slides on the side of Mount Colden you make your way through the pass and descend to Avalanche Lake. The hike past the lake is a bit demanding, especially with full packs. You will contend with boulders, ladders and a very windy trail, but the views along this section of trail are hardly matched by many others. Once on the opposite side of Avalanche Lake you will descend and then go right at the junction at the register and hike the west side of Lake Colden to the dam at its outlet. Don’t cross the dam, but rather stay above it and continue toward Flowed Lands. Roughly 0.25 miles past the dam is Herbert Brook and the herd-path on your right marked with a cairn. The route is now much narrower and follows along the brook to your left. The terrain starts out moderate with a couple steep ascent sections. As you follow the brook, there are excellent views back into the valley; this is where the waterfalls start to come into view. Once the herd-path leaves the brook, expect the terrain to get much steeper, because it does. There is one excellent viewing area along the summit ridge before you reach the treed summit. A short walk to the north of about 20 yards will score you a nice view of Iroquois Peak.

*Another way to reach Mount Marshall from HPIC via Cold Brook Pass. As of 2011 DEC is no longer maintaining this route but it remains followable for the time being. That said, it's very narrow and tight with spruce trees. Long sleeves and pants are recommended. 

Snowshoeing

Do not attempt to cross Flowed Lands unless the conditions warrant. Remember, ice conditions can be variable and unpredictable. This herd path is tough to follow in areas if the route has not been broken out. Most of the route up Mount Marshall is wooded so exposure to winds on open summits, as is the case with other High Peaks, is not as much a factor here. However, the elevation does create serious temperature changes. 

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. Cliff sits back behind Mount Marcy and requires a long approach, then a hike through an exceptional mud pit, then up the cliff face which is extremely steep and in many situations slippery. While, due to tradition, this is a 46er peak, it does not crest 4000’ in elevation.  Cliff is often climbed with in conjunction with Mount Redfield. We recommend you pick up a guide book for more in depth detail or hire a local guide to assist you.

Getting there

Adirondack Loj: Leave Lake Placid on Route 73, follow Route 73 toward Keene. Continue for about 3 miles to Adirondack Loj Road on the right. Follow Adirondack Loj Road for to its end at Heart Lake and park in the main parking lot. Small parking fees will be required.

Upper Works Trailhead: Use the North Hudson exit on the I-87 (exit 29) and follow the Blue Ridge Road (CR 84) toward Newcomb. Continue for roughly 18-miles to the Tahawus Road (CR25) on the right. Follow this road for 6.3 miles and then left at a junction for another 3 miles to a trailhead on the right.

By the numbers

• Distance: 16+ miles round trip
• Elevation: 3960 feet
• Ascent: 2160 feet
• Cliff is High Peak #44
• Follow Leave No Trace principles

Hiking

This is an approximate 8-mile hike, one way. From the Loj follow the hikers approach trail to the High Peaks that leads to Marcy Dam. From Marcy Dam you will need to follow the trail to Avalanche Camp an then left toward Lake Arnold. At Lake Arnold you will stay left and continue to climb to the top of the pass and descend for a bit into the valley. After a sometimes wet hike through the valley over log bridges and around beaver activity you will pass by Feldspar Lean-to. 0.1 miles past the lean-to is a major T-intersection. Left leads up to Four-Corners, south of Mount Marcy. Right leads to Uphill, the start of the herd-path.

Heading right you will have a moderate, but often wet hike to the Uphill Lean-to. The herd-path is directly across the trail from the lean-to, marked by a cairn. This herd-path is also the start of the Redfield Route. The Cliff Route is slightly up the joined herd-path and leaves right. At this point you will have to navigate through the muck and mire to the base of the cliff. Once over the Cliff don’t be fooled into stopping at the next highest point, this is a false summit, drop a bit and finish the climb to the true summit. Views are a bit lacking from the summit, so take in the nice ones along the steep climb.

Winter

Do not attempt to cross Flowed Lands unless the conditions warrant. The herd path is tough to follow in areas if the route has not been broken out. The cliff scramble on the mountain can be very icy and a bit dangerous; take your time. It's recommended to bring full crampons and an ice axe for the cliffs (even if not needed it’s better to have them).

For those who are very experienced in backcountry travel, there is a winter-access only bushwhack route to Cliff. Special attention will need to be given to ice conditions before attempting this.

Hiking Blake Peak

Blake Peak, while one of the shorter Adirondack High Peaks, is still a serious undertaking with significant elevation gain and mileage. A successful ascent of Blake requires research, prior experience hiking in the High Peaks, physical fitness, proper gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles. 

Key takeaways

• Elevation: 3,960 feet
• Elevation gain: 5,200 feet round trip
• Distance: 8.7 miles (17.5 miles round trip)
• Hike includes multiple water crossings, steep ladders, steep rocky sections, and trail junctions
• Based on the approach from Elk Lake

Hiking Blake Peak from Elk Lake

The approach described here is not the typical way to hike Blake. It involves more miles hiked and more elevation gain than the approach from the AMR. If you are looking for the most popular way up Blake, check out the approach from the AMR over Colvin.

The trail starts across from the parking area at the Elk Lake Trailhead, which leads to Panther Gorge and Mount Marcy. You will drop to cross The Branch before starting a flat approach to the beginning of a wet hike to the shoulder of Pinnacle Ridge, reahed at 3.5 miles. A couple more small ups and downs, then you drop slightly to the Pinnacle Ridge Trail on your right. From this point the trail is very demanding and encompasses several smaller peaks with no official names. After 6.6 total miles, you'll reach a spur trail that leads right to the summit of Pinnacle, which has some views of Elk Lake. Turning left at this junction marks the start of the bumpy ridge to Blake. If you have the option of a second car, and can leave it at the AMR trailhead, that is recommended as it saves you mileage and elevation gain. If you cannot do this, once the summit of Blake is reached at roughly 8.7 miles in (which is wooded), you will have to go back the way you came up. 

Keep in mind, there is also no water along the Pinnacle Ridge. Being a long day, bring a water filter, and fill up before you start the serious ascent up Blake.

Blake Peak in the winter

Blake is a challenging peak in the winter, and best approached via the AMR. Approaching via Elk Lake is not recommended in the winter, unless you are an experienced hiker. In the winter, plan for an extra 3.5 miles round trip due to the gate at Clear Pond being closed, which accesses Elk Lake. Be prepared with microspikes, crampons, and snowshoes. 

How to get there

Elk Lake Trailhead: Leave Lake Placid following Rte 73 to Interstate 87. Get off at exit 29 and follow the Blue Ridge Road toward Newcomb. Look for Elk Lake Road on the right in about 4-5 miles; follow it to its end.

Colvin was named after Verplank Colvin, the great surveyor of the Adirondack Park. Colvin is often climbed with Blake Peak – due to it being along the same ridge and located conveniently behind Colvin.

SPECIAL INFORMATION

This hike is accessed through a conservation easement with the Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR). A parking reservation is needed from May 1 - October 31. Although it is called a “parking reservation,” everyone will need a reservation to access hikes leaving from AMR, whether you drove yourself, rode a bike, got dropped-off, or walked. These reservations can be made online via the AMR website. For more information, please read these FAQs or contact the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

How to get there

There are two approaches to Mount Colvin, but one is seldom used and adds a lot of milage.

The primary route leave from the AMR. Leave Lake Placid on Rte 73, follow Rte 73 through Keene and Keene Valley and into Saint Huberts. Parking is across the road from the Roaring Brook Falls Trailhead for Giant Mountain. This approach is on private land owned by the Adirondack Mountain Reserve. Access is guaranteed by virtue of easements, but dogs are absolutely prohibited in this preserve.

The secondary route leaves from Elk Lake. Leave Lake Placid following Rte 73 to Interstate 87. Get off at exit 29 and follow the Blue Ridge Road toward Newcomb. Look for Elk Lake Road on the right in about 4-5 miles; follow it to its end.

By the numbers

• Elevation: 4,507 feet
• Colvin is High Peak #39
• Footpath distance and elevation gain depends on the trail taken. See descriptions below.
• Follow Leave No Trace principles

Hiking

Colvin has two distinctive trails to the summit, where only one is typically used. It offers outstanding views of the Ausable Lakes as well as the Great Range.

Below are brief descriptions of the two routes, we recommend you pick up a guide book for more in depth detail or hire a local guide to assist you. 

The primary route is a 12.5 mile roundtrip hike with mixed terrain. The hike starts along a dirt road the becomes paved next to a golf course.  At 0.5 miles turn left and down between two tennis courts on Lake Road Way to the entrance station and register at 0.6 mi. from the parking area. Beyond is a wooden gate, where you will continue along a dirt road for an additional 2.5 miles before you enter a foot trail. The foot trail starts off very moderate but continues to get steeper in sections. The final approach to Mount Colvin gets very steep and it helps to have a bit of a boost or hand from a friend. After taking the winning views from Colvin you can work your way along the ridge and descend steeply into the col with Blake. 

The secondary route is a 21.0 mile roundtrip hike with a moderate to steep ascent. Starting along the trail to Panther Gorge and Mount Marcy you will drop to cross The Branch before starting a flat approach to the beginning of a wet hike to the shoulder of the Pinnacle Ridge and then drop slightly to the Pinnacle Ridge Trail. From this point the trail is very demanding and encompasses several smaller peaks with no official names. There is a spur trail to the summit of Pinnacle, which is recommended for outstanding views. Blake will be at the end of the ridge.

From Blake you drop down very steeply through a highly eroded area where footing is difficult. From the col you will pass the third trail outlined below and then start an equally steep ascent up Colvin. There are a couple excellent viewing areas along the ridge to enjoy along the way. It is recommended to continue the traverse over Colvin and out to the AMR and a second car, unless an overnight is planned this round-trip outing would be too demanding for most hikers. 

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing Colvin in winter is a serious endeavor that should only be attempted after tackling a few of the area's smaller mountains. Snowshoes are required and will suffice on the generally well-packed trail. Expect a significant drop in temperature as elevation is gained, and be prepared for strong winds on the open summit ledge. Always bring extra layers, especially for higher elevations, and don't hesitate to turn around if the weather starts to turn.

A hike from Elk Lake to Colvin will likely be unbroken in winter, as this route is not frequently used, especially in winter.

An ascent of Allen is a major undertaking since it is a nearly 20 mile roundtrip, nearly half of which is on unmarked trails. The views from Allen are quite good and the final climb is rather enjoyable with outstanding views that progress as you get higher, but this hike is only for the most experienced.

How to get there

Use the North Hudson exit on the I-87 (exit 29) and follow the Blue Ridge Road (CR 84) toward Newcomb.

Continue for roughly 18-miles to the Tahawus Road (CR25) on the right. Follow this road for 6.3 miles and then left at a junction for another 3 miles to a trailhead on the right.

By the numbers

• Elevation: 4,340-feet
• Elevation gain: approximately 2,540-feet
• Distance: approximately 18-miles, roundtrip
• Allen is High Peak #26
• Follow Leave No Trace principles

Hiking

From the trailhead you will descend a bit to a bridge crossing of the Hudson River. After a short walk through an attractive forest you will come to Lake Jimmy and a sharp left turn for a new bypass that avoids the not-so-good floating bridge. Much of the hike will bring you along a state trail that follows not only foot trails but old woods roads and even a gravel road or two. The bridge over the Opalescent River was destroyed in a storm in October 2019. At this time, there is no plan to replace it.

At 5 miles go right on a plain but unmarked trail, often referred to as a "herd path." The herd path is very apparent and is the most attractive portion of the route. As you approach the top and start following Allen Brook the terrain gets much steeper. Along Allen Brook there is a slide that can be climbed, but care is needed as it is very slippery – a rough herd path on the side will avoid the exposed rock. The summit is treed but off to the side there is an opening or two to take in excellent views of the area.

Snowshoeing

Due to the length of the trip, it is recommended that the party bring winter camping gear and supplies. Always bring a headlamp. The slide at the top is very steep and can be very slippery in the snow. Be sure to wear traction devices and snowshoes.

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 summit.

How to get there

From exit 29 off I-87, turn west onto Blue Ridge Road (CR 84) toward Newcomb. Follow this route for 17.4 miles to an intersection with Tahawus Road (CR 25). Turn right on Tahawus Road and stay on it for 6.3 miles then turn left at a sign for High Peaks trails. Pass by the old blast furnace at 2.8 miles up this road. From the blast furnace, it is less than one mile to your destination. The road dead ends at the Upper Works parking lot. 

There is an alternative start point from the Adirondack Loj.

By the numbers

• Elevation: 4,480 feet
• Elevation gain from Lake Tear of the Clouds: about 500 feet
• Gray Peak is High Peak #7

Hiking

Gray sits right off the west shoulder of Mount Marcy, giving it outstanding views of its big sister. Gray Peak can be approached from several different directions, but the shortest approach is the one described below. There are great camping opportunities at Uphill and Feldspar lean-tos if you wanted to make a weekend of the hike.

Gray is often climbed in conjunction with Mount Marcy and Mount Skylight by climbing up over the summit of Marcy and descending to Four Corners.

From Upper Works follow the trail to Flowed Lands and Lake Colden which isn’t all that demanding and can be accomplished relatively fast. The trails around Flowed Lands and Lake Colden have ups and downs, which will slow you down a little as you climb over boulders and admire the scenery.

Snowshoeing

Heavy winds, ice conditions along the steep section, white-outs, obscured trail due to snow drifts, and spruce traps: all of these conditions can be witnessed and should be prepared for. 

If attempting this climb from Marcy, it is good to be prepared for arctic conditions as you will spend time above tree line. You will have no shelter or protection from the elements here. Follow the herd-path up Gray, which can be challenging to locate in good conditions. Snow drifts and a windblown trail cover most of the course of the herd path. When off the trail you will notice the softness of the snow and the potential for spruce traps are high. 

A spruce trap is where snow covers the branches of the spruce and balsam trees but does not get under the branches. This void causes the snow to collapse under your weight causing you to fall to the depth of the snow which can be upwards of 6-feet. The traps are very hard to get out of and the aid of your fellow climbers is sometimes essential.

Dix can be climbed by itself, but in many cases is combined with the rest or parts of the range. The Dix Range also includes Carson Peak (South Dix), Grace Peak (formally East Dix), Hough Peak, and Macomb Mountain. If hiking all mountains in the Dix Range, see our listing for the entire Dix Range or read our blog post about The Dix Range Traverse.

How to get there

There are two main access points for Dix Mountain.

Round Pond: From I-87, take exit 30 (Keene/ Keene Valley) and turn onto Route 9 north/ Route 73 west. Follow this approximately 5-miles to the Round Pond parking area on the left. There is room for 6 or so cars. Do not park on the shoulder of the road. If you park even a little off the side of the road your car could be towed while you are gone.

Elk Lake: Take Exit 29 on I-87 and follow Blue Ridge Road to the west, toward Newcomb. Continue for 4-miles to Elk Lake Road on the right. (There is a sign for the Elk Lake Lodge.) Follow this road to the hiker parking, near the end. Keep in mind, in winter, the lot at Elk Lake is closed and hikers will need to start at Clear Pond, 2-miles down the road, adding 4-miles RT to a hike. 

By the numbers

• Elevation: 4,857 feet
• Dix Mountain is High Peak #6
• Dix's summit is home to fragile alpine vegetation — avoid trampling it by staying on the rocks at all times
• Follow Leave No Trace principles
• See descriptions below for trail milages 

Hiking

There are multiple approaches to this mountain. These are the most popular when climbing Dix by itself. Dix is a very tough hike with steep terrain, exposed sections and very long distances. The views from Dix are some of the best in Northeast including views of the Green Mountains in Vermont. They say on a super clear day the White Mountains of New Hampshire can be seen off in the distance. Below are brief descriptions of the two marked trails to Dix Mountain. To visit the other peaks in the range, we highly recommend you pick up a guide book for more in depth detail or hire a local guide to assist you in your visit to the Dix Range.

Round Pond: This is a 13.6 mile RT when doing Dix Mountain alone. From Route 73, you will climb steeply above the road and follow a moderate course to the shore of Round Pond. After a hike around Round Pond, you will start a modest ascent to a four-way intersection. From here it's mostly flat to the Bouquet River Lean-to at 4.2 miles. From this point the climb starts to get a bit steeper to the base of the slides on the face of Dix. The slides do not access the summit. After passing along the base of the slides you will duck back into the woods and start a very steep and demanding hike along an eroded path. The steep terrain does not end until the summit is practically reached. This makes for a challenging, but rewarding, climb.

Elk Lake: Please note, this route is closed during big game season. Hikers commonly choose to climb Dix from the south by taking the Hunter Pass Trail from Elk Lake toward Hunters Pass and then on to Dix for a 7.3 mile one way hike. Some take Hunter Pass Trail to the Beckhorn Trail for a 6.6 mile one way hike. Hunter's Pass is a longer trail but slightly less steep than the Beckhorn. After a long day on the trail, most hikers prefer to take the Beckhorn Trail, which is marked, along with Hunter's Pass.

Snowshoeing and winter

Snowshoeing Dix Mountain is a fine adventure as any, but comes with a few challenges. If starting from Elk Lake, hikers will need to use the lot at Clear Pond, adding an additional 4- miles RT to their hike. Deep snow, narrow paths, and wet snow on overhanging trees are all obstacles on this hike in winter. Please pack snowshoes, microspikes or trail crampons, and all the winter essential gear. Expect a significant drop in temperature as elevation is gained, and be prepared for strong winds on the open summit. Always bring extra layers, especially for higher elevations, and don't hesitate to turn around if the weather starts to turn.

Hiking New York state's fourth highest peak

Mount Skylight is the fourth tallest of the Adirondack High Peaks. It is a steep, serious hike that requires significant preparation. A successful hike of Mount Skylight involves research, physical fitness, the right gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles. 

Key takeaways

• Elevation: 4,926 feet
• Elevation gain: 3,800 feet round trip
• Distance: 9.4 miles one way
• Hike includes water crossings, steep rock slab, and trail junctions
• Based on the trail from Upper Works

Hiking

There are multiple trails to the summit of Mount Skylight. Information on this page describes the out-and-back hike from Upper Works. Find information on the approach from the High Peaks Information Center via the Van Hoevenberg Trail here. This peak is often climbed with in conjunction with Mount Marcy and Gray Peak. The Adirondack Mountain Club is asking that people stop carrying rocks to the summit as it can damage alpine vegetation and create hazards for hikers and the Summit Stewards.

From Upper Works follow the trail to Flowed Lands and Lake Colden. After reaching the lakes, the hike becomes more demanding. From the dam, hike along the Opalescent River and continue on the trail past the Uphill Lean-to and the intersection for Feldspar. The climb remains steady and eventually you will come to Lake Tear of the Clouds. You will hike near the shore of the lake and end up at Four-Corners, a major intersection on the south side of Marcy. (Trail left here leads to Mount Marcy.) At this point, take a right and climb up the shoulder of Skylight. This section tends to be a bit wet and slippery in spots. This final approach is the steepest section of the entire hike. After you reach the summit, head back down to Four Corners, and you'll have the choice to add on Gray and Marcy, or return back to Upper Works.

Mount Skylight in winter

Mount Skylight is a challenging mountain that should only be attempted by experienced hikers, especially in winter, so make sure you are prepared. Snowshoes are necessary, and snow spikes or crampons are needed to climb the exposed upper reaches of the peak. 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. Do not attempt to cross Flowed Lands unless the conditions warrant.

How to get there

From exit 29 off I-87, turn west onto Blue Ridge Road (CR 84) toward Newcomb. Follow this route for 17.4 miles to an intersection with Tahawus Road (CR 25). Turn right on Tahawus Road and stay on it for 6.3 miles then turn left at a sign for High Peaks trails. Pass by the old blast furnace at 2.8 miles up this road. From the blast furnace, it is less than one mile to your destination. The road dead ends at the Upper Works parking lot.