Continue on past the lake for 0.1 miles and arrive at what they call the four corners junction. Then you will immediately start to climb again for 0.5 miles up Saddleback Mountain. Fantastic views. This is where you will spend the night. Use the ADK-Club-built wooden steps for hikers to help navigate this difficult section. Bring MicroSpikes or crampons if you are headed to the actual summit. Lake Colden - Newcomb, NY. Phil Brown of the Adirondack Explorer on Mount Marcy in April of 2007, a great snow year where Whiteface Mt. Anywhere near water but running water, so the mosquitoes are not too bad. Water is very easy to come by in the Adirondacks. However, know that bear canisters are mandatory. I’m going to ski Mount Marcy today. It was on our Bucket list. This trail is a highway, but hikers start dispersing around the dam, where five trails converge. Because of this, trekking poles are a real help to keep your balance and to keep you safe. The short side trip to Indian Falls is worth effort, especially when waters are running high. Because of this situation and others the Adirondack Mountain Club requires you to eat your food at least 100 feet away from your camp and to store all your food in a bear canister. Answer 1 of 16: We have decided to do a last minute camping trip to the Adirondacks with my 20 year old daughter and her friends. Make your way to Marcy Dam, the hub for over a dozen mountains in the High Peaks Wilderness. This is where you will spend the night. Mountains have the power to stir within us a passion for wide open, wild places. Bear right and take the Phelps Trail for 0.7 miles, dropping rapidly in elevation. For 107 years Mount Marcy has been an attraction for skiers. Availability: In stock. There is a daily parking fee of $12. You will come to the Phelps and Van Hoevenberg Trail junction. There are no water sources up high and you will go through a lot of water because of exertion. You will also want plenty of time to enjoy this outing. Take the steps all the way down and eventually you will return to dirt trail again. Some of the links above are affiliate links. $25.99 *Gender. Hi. $25.99. The other option is that you can rent one at the ADK High Peaks Information Center near Heart Lake for $8 (1-2 days) or $16 (3-4 days). Stay on Avalanche Pass Trail for 0.9 miles, skirting along the edge of Lake Colden. Even though the dam itself was destroyed by hurricane Irene in 2011, the area is still beautiful, with views of Wright Peak and Mount Colden’s rocky slides. They can be a real nuisance if you don’t come prepared. Plan to top off your water bottles before your big ascents. Thanks for the support! Take a left onto the Woodsfall Trail for 0.3 miles passing over the Orebed Brook and the Johns Brook. So, I recommend that you bring a long-sleeved shirt and long pants treated in Permethrin (insect repellent for your clothing and gear), a head bug-net, and some Picaridin bug spray. Backcountry Foray Planner near Mount Marcy The Mt. Mount Marcy Notes: I was glad to have this with me on the hike up Marcy. Me and my husband will be going up to New York from Florida to do some backcountry camping. Parking for this hiking loop can be found at the Adirondack (ADK) High Peaks Information Center at Heart Lake. On this particular backpacking loop you will get to see the picturesque Avalanche Lake that’s nestled between two Adirondack Mountains, climb Mount Marcy the highest peak in New York at 5,344’, and enjoy many spectacular mountain views that extend as far as the eye can see. This trip is therefore best done in a group of four to insure safety. Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Adirondack High Peaks Loop (Avalanche Lake, Mt Marcy, Mt Basin, Saddleback Mt). We certainly needed it for flattening out our camp site after arriving to a site with 6-8 inches of fresh snow. 742 National Geographic (Adirondack Park Lake Placid/High Peaks) Map: For finding your way, I recommend using the Adirondack Mountain Club’s waterproof map. Mount Marcy: Mt. MOUNT MARCY. Hiking in the Adirondack High Peaks can be difficult. Make sure to take your time here you don’t want to get seriously hurt in the middle of the wilderness. The views from the top are hard to beat, and as far as the trail goes, it’s not the most challenging or longest of the high peaks. While unmaintained, it is very well-defined and easy to follow. Turn left onto the Orebed Brook Trail and descend for 0.5 miles and eventually come to a steep rock slide. It is the farthest west of the NH 4000' peaks and it's summit is a large exposed area above treeline offering wide ranging views which many consider the best in the Whites. On certain sections of the trail you will find rocks and boulders that sometimes require rock scrambling. Most New York backcountry skiers today take their first wild turns on this peak. Elevation: 5,344 feet. In about 0.1 miles you will arrive at the Avalanche Pass and Van Hoevenberg Trail junction. A true wilderness experience, backcountry camping combines hiking and camping as you make your way through barely-touched terrains, relishing the solitude and surrounding nature. ADK Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake: This campground is the most convenient option for a place to stay since it’s located within walking distance of all the hiking trails. Campsites are identified by a small yellow marker with a tent insignia on it. High Peaks Trails Guide Book: The guide book is designed to be used in conjunction with a map. Mt Marcy Notes: This is great for winter camping. Please see the Mount Marcy page on details on how to access the summit of Marcy. Some of the best campsites are located around or close to Lake Colden and Avalanche Lake. I have many of the water sources marked on the interactive map below so you can plan your hike accordingly. Backcountry camping permits in Banff National Park are limited, so you’ll want to reserve your backpacking permit well in advance for trips in peak season (June through early September). I like high peaks, and places where I can see the sunset. Stay on the Mount Marcy Trail by turning left. Many of them have mastered the art of stealing food from backpackers. This will complete your hike. The Great Range Traverse crosses all the peaks of the range plus Mount Marcy to knock out eight of the state's 46 High Peaks, including the state high point, in one epic hike. Begin the day by retracing your steps back to the Mount Marcy and Avalanche Pass Trail junction. If you arrive and find that the lot is full, there is overflow parking available. I recommend arriving very early in the day. Conditions were very good below tree line; above, there was a lot of wind slab and ice. Mount Marcy peak is the highest point in New York state, standing at 5,344 feet in elevation. When he came back he found a bear eating his oatmeal. We spent 2 days a week 4 months prior hiking around our home 10 or 12 miles at a time. It requires a specific set of survival skills and for this reason, it is a trip for more experienced hikers and campers. In other areas you will find the trails to be a little overgrown. Distance: 17 miles Duration: 8 hours Difficulty: Expert Snow: 5 feet needed. Eventually you will come to the Mr. Van Ski and Klondike Notch Trail junction. Back on the main trail, Feldspar lean-to is 1.2 miles away (free, as well as the campsites). You will then turn left for 0.5 miles and come to the Mount Marcy and Lake Arnold Trail junction. I love everything backpacking and want to share my knowledge and experiences with you. The long descent back to the HPIC will take you through Lake Arnold, at the foot of Mount Colden, the Avalanche lean-tos (free, as well as the campsites) and eventually, Marcy Dam, where the loop part of this hike ends. In a good winter it’s buried, or nearly so. This shovel is a lightweight colapsible shovel perfect for backcountry use. Outdoor Project may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers. The parking fee might seem a little expensive, but you have to remember that this money helps protect the Adirondack wilderness. Marcy and less than a five mile hike to Algonquin. (The National Geographic maps do not.) Also, make sure to always filter your water because giardia and bacteria are a concern. We have never been past Virginia so we are quite confused on what the best places to backpack are in the Adirondacks. It’s about protecting what sustains us. From the summit of Marcy you will descent off the south side toward Four-Corners and go over Schofield Cobble. It fills up quickly in the summer and during leaf peeping season, so plan to arrive early to beat the crowds. This flat summit is far from any trailhead, and as a result, it is usually very quiet. When you’re done enjoying all the views, you will continue on State Range Trail down the other side of the mountain for 0.5 miles. This mostly wooded summit still has something to offer if you walk around; in winter, score a great view of Mount Marcy thanks to the accumulation of snow. The weekly rate (5-7 days) is $48. It is 1.1 miles to the intersection; head straight ahead to access Mount Skylight. Rodeway Inn: This is a nice budget hotel if your looking for something very simple to spend the night at. Mount Marcy. This hike will surely be a challenge for anyone, but the reward is an incredible adventure that will leave a lasting impression. As far as I’m concerned, though, it’s still winter. At the very end of the lake, notice the cairn on your right (north). Information regarding access, outdoor recreation infrastructure and conditions on the lands and waters in the backcountry of the High Peaks Region for the High Peaks Wilderness, Dix Mountain Wilderness, Giant Mountain Wilderness, Hurricane Mountain Wilderness, Jay Mountain Wilderness, McKenzie Mountain Wilderness, and Sentinel Range Wilderness Save them for another day. Marcy. To make the trail less challenging the ADK Mountain Club installed wooden ladders and catwalks which will add some fun to your experience. I am not sure about letting her do that. Then the terrain will flatten out and you will reach the lake Tear of the Clouds. From the summit of Mount Marcy, head southwest toward Mount Skylight, the big bald summit directly in front. Solid decision. This is what happened to a guy who was camping next to me. Climbing Mount Marcy is a rite of passage for many area hikers, whether it’s a personal goal on its own or a small piece of the pursuit to become an Adirondack 46er. It is the tallest peak on the official Adirondack High Peaks 46ers list. In the Adirondack High Peaks, spring time means lots of black flies and mosquitoes. Monte Bello Open Space Preserve, California. from Meadows Lane out to Rt. You will then come to the State Range and Phelps Trail junction. Just footpaths that seem to go straight up the side of the mountain. At 5,344 feet, Mount Marcy’s summit is the highest point in New York, and climbing it in any season is a worthy goal. You will have to keep your eyes on trail markers and reference your map frequently to avoid getting lost. This trail follows the same route as the Avalanche Pass trail, but it veers left after the former site of Marcy Dam. There’s a non-refundable reservation fee of $11.70, no matter how many nights you stay. You can choose between regular tent sites, lean-tos, or canvas cabins. The Van Hovenberg Trail to Marcy will be busy, but escape the crowds by adding Mount Skylight and Gray Peak to complete this classic lasso loop. Take a left onto the Phelps Trail for about 0.1 miles and start looking for a campsite designated area. The Adirondacks High Peak Wilderness is known to have a very healthy population of black bears. On Sunday, March 10, 2013, the weather for once cooperated in our try for Mount Marcy’s summit. Crossover the Marcy Brook and then bear right. Start at the Van Hoevenberg Trailhead which is located close to the ADK Info Center at Heart Lake. It was a harder hike than Mount Washington in New Hampshire, because it is such a long hike, and you need a lot of endurance to get to the top. Tradition also has it that you bring a rock to the summit. Hike up this steep section for 0.8 miles and then you will have reached the summit. Stay on the Mount Marcy Trail by turning right. Less skiers in the Adirondacks compared with New Hampshire and Vermont: We’ve seen a boom in backcountry skiing in the United States over the last 15 years. Hiking back down through the four corners area (the col between Marcy and Skylight) and going out that way is fun, but certainly be prepared for a long day with some tedious and wet sections. It’s not as nice, so take time to soak in the views and the peaceful nature. If you decide to buy one I recommend the Garcia Bear-Resistant Container because of it’s durability and superior design. Primitive or backcountry camping involves camping in a tent or lean-to deep in the woods away from civilization. My name is Justin and I'm an adventurer at heart. In about 2.5 miles from the rock slide you will arrive at a 4 trail intersection. 742 National Geographic (Adirondack Park Lake Placid/High Peaks) Map: West Rim Trail (PA Grand Canyon) Backpacking Guide, Spruce Knob/Seneca Creek Loop Backpacking Guide, Glacier National Park’s North Circle Loop Backpacking Guide. Here you will come upon Orebed Brook and ADK Range Trail junction. Long approach. This helps me to continually make content and keep this site going. Mount Skylight, New York's fourth highest summit at 4,925 feet, is a mere 0.5 miles away, due south. Marcy the Highest Point in New York. This hike takes you to Mount Marcy, New York’s highest point at 5,344 feet. We’d be remiss not to mention the big one — Mount Marcy. Easy to set up and compact. By PHIL BROWN. One thing to keep in mind is that, even though there is an abundance of parking spots, this place can still fill up on summer weekends by 9 or 10 a.m. You will then arrive at the Mr. Van Ski and Van Hoevenberg Trail junction. This will begin your ascent up Mount Marcy. With this type of terrain don't expect to be putting in 15 or 20 miles per day, but closer to 10 miles or even less. Again campsites are identified by a small yellow marker with a tent insignia on it. This trip is therefore best done in a group of four to insure safety. Start from the High Peaks Information Center, where a large parking lot accommodates a few hundred cars. Mike and I went to Adirondack High Peaks for our first hiking trip. Marcy Dam - Keene Valley, NY. MacNaughton Mountain Snowshoe via the Wallface Ponds, The Best Winter Adventures in North America. Backpacking trip guides to help you plan your next adventure. Click the link provided for the latest price for a room. After that you will come to the John Brooks Lodge. Cross the brook and continue on for 1 more mile. Marcy-Feldspar Ski Loop. Mount Marcy in the Adirondacks: A backcountry climb up New York's highest peak. You are never too far away from a lake or stream. Turn left onto the Mr. Van Ski Trail (This trail will be slightly overgrown) for 1 mile and come to Marcy Brook. Want to spend the night at a campsite or lean-to? In the summer you will need to backtrack a few hundred feet to cross the river on the replacement bridge; in winter, cross over the frozen pond. I skied Mount Marcy from Adirondak Loj on Friday. Climbing Mount Marcy is a rite of passage for many area hikers, whether it’s a personal goal on its own or a small piece of the pursuit to become an Adirondack 46er. Take the State Range Trail for 1.1 miles going uphill for a little bit and then dropping back down into a valley. After enjoying the views take the Van Hoevenberg Trail down the other side of Mount Marcy for 0.6 miles. Make sure to check the mountain weather forecast ahead of time at Mountain-forecast.com. Up Mount Marcy On Skis. It provides you with detailed information on elevation profiles, mileage, water sources, shelter, and campsite locations. At 5,344 feet, Mount Marcy is New York state's tallest peak. Click the link provided for the latest rates. Sign up with your email address to receive news and updates. This is his guide to the region’s premier backcountry tour. Then you will begin a steep ascent up Basin Mountain for 0.8 miles. It’s about more than standing on the mountain top. The water source is downhill at Phelps Brook. It’s about nourishment and learning. For 4.8 miles you will hike through dense forest and follow multiple streams. The baseball season opened on April 2 (the Yankees lost). All rights reserved. This type of camping offers few or no amenities such as running water, electricity, picnic tables, or restrooms. I recommend the Leki Makalu Lite Cor-Tec trekking poles because they have comfortable hand grips and have a durable design. Backcountry camping is only permitted at designated campsites or shelters. Lake Colden is also in the High Peaks region and can serve as a basecamp for mulitple peaks. From there, it’s 2.3 miles of mostly flat trail to your car. Reach the tree line quickly and enjoy unobstructed views while finishing the ascent. If you click on them and purchase an item, I'll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. The HPIC rents them. Author: BACKPACKERMagazine Updated: Feb 8, 2017 Original: Sep 20, 2013. It supplies more detailed information on rules and regulations, how to find the trailhead, where to park, mileages, elevation gains and heights, and all essential navigational information. Photo Credit: Marcy Dam via photopin. When completed you will have reached the summit. It’s about building relationships with the outdoors and each other. Adirondack Park: Mount Marcy. 73. For 1.4 miles the trail will become very steep. This is where the 0.5-mile herdpath to Gray Peak starts. T he day was cool and clear with bright sunshine and light winds. Marcy-Feldspar Ski Loop. Here you will take a left onto the Klondike Notch Trail. Mark Meschinelli, a local skimountaineer who has skiied in Alaska, once fell into the steep, chuted Feldspar brook up to his chest in water. ski area registered 265″. I'm 57 she is 47. We believe good things come from people spending time outside. Take the Avalanche Pass Trail for about 1.5 miles and come to an area full of boulders and rock ledges called Avalanche Pass. She is thinking she would like to climb Mt. © 2020 Outdoor Project. Mount Moosilauke, located about 8 miles west of Lincoln, NH (just south of Franconia Notch State Park), is a popular White Mountain hiking and backcountry skiing peak. Current Mount Marcy Backcountry Ski Conditions. This hike takes you to Mount Marcy, New York’s highest point at 5,344 feet. Continue on for 1.1 miles, hiking along the lake on catwalks and climbing up wooden ladders over boulders. Contemplate your next stop, Gray Peak, directly west of Mount Marcy. Climb Mt. Just as you emerge from the forest and make the final push to the roof of New York you will be rewarded with fantastic views in all directions. The Masters Tournament will begin in a few days. For 1.4 miles the trail will become very steep. If you’re a member to the ADK Club, parking will be cheaper. On the way to Marcy you will notice the trail to Phelps and Table Top, two other Adirondack 46ers. The Traverse is often referred to as a day hike, but it can be a multi-day backpacking trip. One of the best water filters on the market is the Sawyer Squeeze because it’s lightweight and has a fast flow rate. Here is a list of all 46 high peaks in the state of New York. Mens ; Womens *Type. If your trip is more in the summer time or later, usually the bugs are not that big of a concern and you could get away with just bringing some bug spray. We promise not to annoy you, but if you wish, you may unsubscribe at any time. This is New York's seventh highest summit at 4,826 feet. When done you will have reached the summit. When you get close to the summit, it will change from hiking on a trail to literally rock climbing with both your hands and feet. The last signpost was about six feet above the snow. The trail quickly descends, but there is great scenery to enjoy until you reach tree line again and Four Corners, where four trails converge. There is also a particular section on this trail that is dangerous - climbing up Saddleback Mountain. If you're hiking in the High Peaks, Marcy Dam is a great basecamp with a prime location at the foot of Mt. 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