Lake George, N.Y. is nestled in the 6-million acre Adirondack Park, and is a popular recreation area for locals and tourists alike. More than 50 miles of trails snake through the region and vary in difficulty from easy or moderate to steep and strenuous.
Additional information regarding activities in this popular vacation destination and driving directions to trailheads for numerous hikes in the Adirondack region can be found by visiting LakeGeorge.com.
Easy
Shelving Rock Falls is an easy hike along a wide, flat unmarked path that used to be a carriage road to a 50-foot waterfall on the eastern shore of Lake George. This is a great choice for hikers on their first adventure, families or even for veteran hikers seeking a great view. The more adventurous hiker can opt to take the trail to the 1,125-foot summit of Shelving Rock Mountain.
The Shelving Rock trail network offers miles of trails to several scenic destinations. If you have an afternoon to dedicate to this hike, meander along the Lake George shoreline to numerous vantage points.
Distance: 1.6 miles round-trip.
Moderate
Prospect Mountain offers some of the most rewarding views of Lake George, Vermont’s Green Mountains, New Hampshire’s White Mountains and the Adirondack High Peaks. Prospect Mountain has been named the “100-mile view” for the spectacular scenery it offers on a clear day.
This Department of Environmental Conservation red-marked trail follows part of an old road bed of a funicular railway that used to serve the Prospect Mt. Hotel, and the trail can be steep at times, but not difficult. There is a picnic area at the summit, complete with barbecue grills, picnic tables, bathrooms and a gazebo.
Distance: 4 miles round trip
Difficult
The Tongue Mountain Range includes the summits of Brown Mountain, Five Mile Mountain, Fifth Peak, French Point Mountain and First Peak. Five Mile Mountain is the highest peak in the range at 2,256 feet. The 18 miles of trails on high ridges connecting the peaks is a great workout for even the most seasoned hiker.
Spectacular views from the Tongue Mountain Range include vistas of Lake George on both the east and west sides. "Backpacker Magazine" listed the Tongue Mountain Range as a favorite hike in 2005.
Distance: 12- to 14-mile loop
What to Bring
Even if you plan to be on the trail for a short amount of time, make sure you dress appropriately for the season and wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes. Wear several layers so you are prepared for changing weather conditions, and avoid cotton.
Pack the following in a day pack: rain gear; food such as energy bars, granola and bananas; water; first aid kit; map and pocket knife.
What to Know Before You Go
Consult a map before starting any hike, regardless of the distance or estimated time. Check weather reports and refer to guide books. Let someone know where you’re going, and always remember to sign in at any Department of Conservation trail register you may pass, which can assist rangers in finding you if necessary. Visit the New York State Department of Conservation website for additional hiker safety information.
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