The Best Adirondack Hikes: An Exploration Guide

The Adirondack Mountains, stretching across the northern part of upstate New York, are a unique wilderness and National Historic Landmark area. Spanning over six million acres, the park is constitutionally protected as a "forever wild" forest preserve. In addition to privately owned land, the Adirondacks include settlements, farms, timberlands, businesses, homes, and camps.

The Adirondacks feature 3,000 lakes and ponds and 30,000 miles of rivers and streams, making it an ideal destination for canoeing, kayaking, and hiking So, what better way to explore this massive expanse of natural beauty than to experience it firsthand? With over 2,000 miles of hiking trails, we invite you on a journey through the Adirondacks with us! Our beautiful Covewood Lodge at Big Moose Lake is a perfect starting point for several hikes.

Bald Mountain

Distance: 1 mile

One of the closest hikes from our lodge, the Bald Mountain trail offers a long rocky spine with beautiful views along the way. After the first 0.4 miles, you’ll be able to observe the Second, Third, and Fourth lakes from the cliffs.

Such stunning views will accompany you all the way to the top. A pleasant surprise awaits you once you reach the top of Bald Mountain.

Atop your hike stands a fire tower, providing panoramic views of the breathtaking natural vastness surrounding you. The most stunning scenery stretching out before you will probably be the Blue Mountain and Fulton Chain of Lakes, but you be the judge!

Rocky Mountain

Distance: 0.5 miles

If you’ve been longing to experience the sunrise from atop a mountain but aren’t an early bird, we recommend hiking Rocky Mountain.

Offering spectacular sunset and sunrise views, you can reach the mountain's summit in just a half-mile. Beginning on primarily flat ground, the trail eventually becomes steeper, rewarding you with astonishing views of the Fulton Chain of Lakes at the end.

Sis and Bubb Lakes

Distance: 0.9 miles

The trail to Sis and Bubb Lakes is a pleasant, family-friendly hike with stunning surroundings on the way. Starting from the trailhead, you’ll climb over Vista Ridge, then descend to the drainage between the Lakes, which you can cross using a footbridge.

Explore the north side of Bubb Lake for more views, or add the Moss Lake Loop for extra mileage!

Venture Further

If you’re a daring and experienced hiker, the Adirondack High Peaks are waiting for you. There are 46 “high peaks” in the Adirondacks, recommended for only the most avid hikers.

Hiking all of them and becoming a “46er” is one of the meaningful accomplishments in the hiking community. Will you challenge yourself and become a part of this elite group?

Mount Haystack

At an elevation of 4,960 feet stands the peak of Mount Haystack, the third-highest peak in the Adirondacks, accounting for one of the most challenging hikes in the park. For anyone who makes it to the top, Mount Haystack offers a spectacular view of the Great Range. Not only that but along the way, the trail is lined by beautiful wildflowers and untouched nature.

Keep in Mind

As beautiful as nature is, it can also be unforgiving. Before setting off on your hike, ensure you’ll be as safe as possible. Here are some tips to make your hike more safe and enjoyable: 



• Take a companion on your adventure- not only for your safety but also for sharing the experiences together! 
• Always stay hydrated 
• Wear functional gear- the right shoes and clothing are of the essence
• Bring a compass and batteries
• Have a first aid kit at hand

When hiking, you can always help us protect the untouched state of the Adirondack’s pristine nature. Appropriate waste disposal is the least anyone can do for our beautiful nature. Last but not least, keep in mind that the Adirondacks' forests are home to several wild species. You are welcome to observe and enjoy the local wildlife but leave it undisturbed.

Stay at the Covewood Lodge

There’s no better feeling than returning from an arduous day spent in nature into coziness and warmth. Our heartwarming Covewood Lodge is just like that—a place of comfort and friendships enduring decades. Choose from our cottages, ranging from one to seven bedrooms, or stay at our historic main lodge. 

With a capacity to accommodate over 100 guests, Covewood Lodge is a place where visitors have been returning for generations. Set out on your unique journey from the Covewood Lodge, a comfortable resort nestled among balsam firs, spruce, and cedar trees on the shores of Big Moose Lake. 



Book your unforgettable experience with Covewood Lodge.