Mountain climbing is an underrated fun-filled activity that vacationers need to try. Whether an expert in mountain climbing or a beginner, there is always a place for every vacationer to explore in the Adirondacks.
The Adirondack Mountains are a typical representation of Upstate New York’s wild side. With a maximum elevation of 5,344 feet, the Adirondack Mountains are a good starting place for inexperienced hikers.
Below are 10 beginner-friendly Adirondack Mountains for budding hikers.
10 Owl’s Head Mountain
Topping the list of beginner-friendly Adirondack Mountains hikes is the Owl’s Head Mountain hike. The number one reason why this mountain is a must-go for starters is because of its less-crowded trait. With fewer people trooping in the area, starters are left to explore the hike all by themselves. Owl’s Head Mountain is a 1.2-mile roundtrip, making it a short and sweet beginner-friendly hike.
9 Cheney Mountain
Largely considered a moderately challenging trail, Cheney Mountain is a worthy consideration for beginners. It is a 1.8-mile roundtrip that takes slightly over one hour to complete. Cheney Mountain is more than just a hiking spot. It is also home to some top activities that vacationers will adore. From birding to cross-country skiing, the list of activities here is endless. Best still, vacationers are allowed to bring their pets to the trail.
8 Mount Haystack
Mount Haystack is not the easiest route to explore. With a 15.9-mile roundtrip, hiking can get quite interesting out there. Although beginners are advised to opt for the less challenging trails, there is nothing wrong with going against this advice. Beginners with the courage to brace this trail will forever crave to go to others of its kind. Depending on the time of the year, vacationers have a multitude of activities to keep their spirits high as they explore the area. Vacationers also have a good opportunity to try their hand at camping. It is the best chance to spend a night or two in the bush.
7 Stewart Mountain
Stewart is among the easiest routes Adirondack vacationers will ever find. Averaging less than a mile out and back, New Yorkers will have a good outing without stretching the body too much. Averaging 25 minutes, the route is best suited for vacationers who don’t have much time to spend in the mountains. The short distance to be covered also means vacationers can bring their children and make them part of the experience. It is the best trail for family-based hiking outings. Dogs too are allowed, albeit on a leash.
6 Dial Mountain
Beginners don’t have to limit their experience to the simple trails alone. They should also brace themselves for the difficult ones to make the experience worthwhile. Dial Mountain is a less known trail in the Adirondacks making it a good choice for vacationers who dislike large crowds. It is a 7.6-mile roundtrip that treats climbers to incredible views of the area. Reaching the summit of Dial Mountain is a goal every New Yorker should brace for. The views up there are worth the walk.
5 Coot Hill
The Adirondacks has never run short of hiking options for starters. This time around, it is Coot Hill. The journey up and down the hill is estimated to be 1.2 miles which is short enough for the average vacationer to maneuver effortlessly. This route can get crowded during the busy part of the morning. Hikers who need some solitude are advised to visit during noon though they might have to deal with the region’s scorching sun. However, the trail can get more difficult during winter.
4 Buck Mountain
Located on the Eastern side of the gorgeous Lake George is one of the Adirondacks’ highest peaks. It is the Buck Mountains. The journey to this peak is a six-mile roundtrip meaning it is not the hardest trail in the region. However, some sections of the trial can get so rocky and inaccessible to kids. Vacationers who are brave enough to stand tall against the trail’s huge rocks have a worthy reward awaiting them at the peak, incredible views of Lake Georgia.
3 Coon Mountain
The Coon Mountain trail is more of a loop than a peak hike. The fact that it is a loop makes it a unique option for budding hikers to explore. This trail has an elevation gain of 584 feet meaning it is fairly challenging. It is also a good option for vacationers who need to try their hand at mountain runs.
2 Cat Mountain
Cat Mountain is best suited for vacationers who are self-motivated and determined to achieve big things on the first attempt. This trail harbors all manner of terrains. From slight elevations to huge rocks, vacationers who opt for this route must be ready to stomach it all.
1 Giant Mountain
Last on this list is the mighty Giant Mountain. The name of this trail is enough to give vacationers a rough idea of what to expect during the climb. It is home to some giant rocks that will require some skill to maneuver. Nevertheless, it is not the hardest route in the Adirondacks ranges. With thousands of vacationers making it to the peak every year, beginners have all the reasons to try it out and enjoy those scenic views from up there.