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.

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.

How to get there

There are two ways to access this mountain:

Upper Works: 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. Unauthorized vehicles in the old parking lot after June 18, 2021 will be towed away at vehicle owner's 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 mileage to your trip.

Adirondack Loj Trailhead: 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 to its end at Heart Lake and park in the main parking lot. Small parking fees will be required ($12 as of 2020).

By the numbers

• Elevation: 4,606 feet
• Redfield is High Peak #15
• Distance: from Upper Works, 18-miles round trip
• Ascent: 3,225 feet
• Be prepared and practice Leave No Trace principles 

Hiking

Mount Redfield is often climbed with Cliff Mountain, and is a much more pleasant ascent with a good summit view as a reward. Below is a brief description of the shortest approach via Lake Arnold. Redfield can also be approached via Lake Colden or from the south via Flowed Lands.

This is an approximate 9-mile hike, one way. From the Loj follow hikers approach the 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, where you begin to climb. Take a left and head toward Lake Arnold. You will climb steeply up the shoulder of Mount Colden and eventually be at 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 Cliff Route. The Redfield route is the main one and continues straight after the Cliff turn-off. From here you will hike along a gorgeous brook and at times in it. Be sure to take time to look back every now and then to enjoy the views as they open up. There are many attractive small waterfalls along the way as well. The summit of Redfield is a large boulder, offering nice views.

Snowshoeing

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. Moving water in the brook can be hazardous and not allow ice to get thick; you could break through if not careful. Tread lightly. The summit is very good in the winter, with outstanding views as you stand atop many feet of snow.

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. 

Avalanche Lake is beautiful and remote. It's well worth the trip for those who are prepared for the miles. Avalanche Pass is usually approached from the Adirondack Loj. But it can also be approached from the Upper Works, and when the two are combined make for an excellent through hike. Below both routes are described for those who want to hike the complete pass from Lake Placid to Newcomb or vice versa.

How to get there

Upper Works: From exit 29 on the I87, follow the Blue Ridge Road (CR84) toward Newcomb. Continue for roughly 18 miles to the Tahawus Road (CR25) on the right. Follow this road for 6.3 miles to a left at a sign for the High Peaks and then to its end at Upper Works at 9 miles.

Adirondack Loj: Leave Lake Placid on Rte 73, follow Route 73 toward Keene. Continue for about 3 miles to Adirondack Loj Road on the right. Follow Adirondack Loj Road to its end at Heart Lake and park in the main parking lot. A $10 parking fee will be required.

Hiking

Upper Works

This is a 6.8 mile hike, one way to the south end of Avalanche Lake. Starting from Upper Works it is a long day to the south shore of Avalanche Lake and back, but a rewarding through hike to Adirondak Loj.

From the parking area at Upper Works. the trail starts mostly flat, but starts its climb to Flowed Lands after a junction at 1.6 miles. Flowed Lands, reached at 4.5 miles offers amazing views through the valley past Mount Colden. From Flowed Lands you will hike its perimeter along a difficult trail of many ups and downs to the dam on Lake Colden. From the dam you will pass through a heavily used camping are along the shore of Lake Colden. Past Lake Colden you will climb a bit to the south end of Avalanche Lake where the views are breathtaking.

• Elevation: 925'
• Ascent: 2,535'

Adirondack Loj

This is a 5.2 mile hike, one way to the south end of Avalanche Lake. From the Loj follow the hikers' approach trail to the High Peaks that leads to Marcy Dam. From Marcy Dam, follow the trail toward Lake Colden. The first mile is a gentle climb, but the next half-mile is steeper to the new (1999) slide at the top of the pass. Passing by a couple of newer (2011) slides on the side of Mount Colden you make your way through the apex of the pass where the temperatures are typically much cooler. Vast cliffs and wet rocks loom over you as light fights to get to the ground. The trail then descends to Avalanche Lake.

The hike past the lake is a bit demanding, especially with full packs, many choose to stop here and enjoy the views of the sheer rock cliffs of Colden and Avalanche Mountain as they meet the cold, placid waters of Avalanche Lake. Past this point you will contend with boulders, ladders and a very windy trail, but the views along this section of trail are amazing and well worth the effort.

Cross-Country skiing and snowshoeing

Following the same route, winter hikers may snowshoe or ski to the lake. Note: Short winter daylight hours and a long route necessitate proper winter gear and emergency equipment. See DEC's Hike Smart NY page for more info on safe winter adventures.

A long hike to the base of the mountain, a short climb, then 360 degrees of stunning views from the summit of the vast Pharaoh Lake Wilderness area.

How to get there

There are more access points for this mountain. Here is one: Take exit 28 off of I-87 and continue south on Route 9 to Alder Meadow Road. Turn left on Alder Meadow Rd. for 2.2 miles, then left on Crane Pond Rd. The road beyond is quite rough but still drivable with high clearance vehicles but not recommended. Park here and walk the easy road to a flooded area with a trail bypass to the left that leads to Crane Pond, 2.0 miles from the parking area.

By the numbers

• Distance: 4.9 miles, one way from the parking area before the rough road starts
• Mountain elevation: 2,556 feet

Hiking

Cross the bridge over the outlet and continue on the flat for 0.7 miles to a junction. Turn right and soon start a gradual climb that steepens at 1.9 miles from Crane Pond and reaches the rocky summit at 2.9 miles. 

Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing

Skiing Crane Pond road would be enjoyable, but we recommend switching to snowshoe for the mountain ascent.

For a short but sweet walk in the wilderness, check out the Grizzle Ocean loop in the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area.

Getting there

Follow Route 74 out of Schroon Lake toward Ticonderoga. After about 13 miles turn right on Putts Pond Road. Follow that to the end at Putnam Pond State Campground. There will be a small fee to use when the campground is open, but this time of year it is closed and free to enter. Pass by the booth and turn left to go up a small hill and into a parking area on the left. The trail is located at the far end of the trailhead parking.

Hiking

From the trailhead, you will follow a nice flat trail that passes by Putnam Pond to your right. The trail soon turns into a short, moderate climb before reaching a rather long descent to a major intersection. Right leads toward Treadway Mountain and Rock Pond, and left leads to Grizzle Ocean and beyond.

After a short climb you will soon come to the split for the loop, which is a fantastic hike that approaches and leaves the shore of this small backcountry pond. Certain areas of the pond are known for their cranberry growth. Once you finish the loop, return using the trail you followed in.

• Elevation: 1,475 feet
• Ascent: 150' of elevation change
• Distance Round Trip: 5 miles

Snowshoeing

This route makes for a fine snowshoe. Just be aware distances may increase as roads may not be plowed in the winter. Be prepared for a longer outing.

Camping

There is an attractive lean-to located in the open pine forest that is a perfect spot for a campfire and a snack. 

Crane Pond is a beautiful gem in the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness. 

How to get there

Take Exit 28 off of Interstate 87 and follow Route 9 south, toward Schroon Lake. In just over a half mile, take a left onto Alder Meadow Road, follow it for about 2.2 miles, then turn onto Crane Pond Road. Follow that for 1.5 miles to the large parking area at the end of the road. Crane Pond Road is typically not in very good condition so be prepared for a longer walk or ski if it is not drivable. 

Hiking

This dirt road is one of the major northern access points for the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness. The road is becoming very rough since it is NOT maintained. The road travels 2 miles to Crane Pond. Hiking is the best option for travelers to the area, since the road often becomes impassable due to mud. From the DEC: Crane Pond road "extends 1.7 miles from the Crane Pond Trailhead at the edge of the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness to the western shore of Crane Pond. The trail ascends 160 feet in the first 1.2 miles to the highest point on the trail and then descends 60 feet to the end of the trail. The last 0.7 mile of the trail parallels the north shore of Alder Pond... This trail is neither designated nor maintained for motor vehicle use. DEC discourages the use of the trail by motor vehicles, however, hikers should be alert for motor vehicles on the trail."

Fishing

Crane Pond is 167 acres. There is plenty of shoreline fishing available. This pond is great for bass and panfish. The road back to Crane Pond is typically not very good, so driving it is not recommended. Consider this a pond you need to portage to. The portage is 2 miles along the dirt road, upon which a cart could easily be used. No motors are allowed in this Wilderness Area. Insider tips: troll the deep portions of the lake on the west end for lake trout, use the shallows for panfish and perch, and the south side of the pond and a northwest peninsula are decent for smallmouth bass. Cast out and reel back slow to bring them out from the steep slopes. Fish species types: bullhead, lake trout, bass, perch, and panfish.

Ice Fishing

Look for lake trout, northern pike, and yellow perch. The lake trout are open season all year, with a minimum length of 15 inches and daily limit of three. Use or possession of baitfish prohibited.

Paddling

Crane Pond is the most popular paddling location within the wilderness because it is the most easily accessed and has shoreline tent sites. The pond can be accessed from Crane Pond Trailhead via Crane Pond Trail. Be prepared for a portage.

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing

A not-oft used road leads through old growth forest to this lovely pond, offering wonderful winter scenery!

Camping

There are nine designated tent sites on the shore of Crane Pond, which can only be accessed by water.