One foot in front of the other
Saranac Lake is a hub for hikers, especially as the snow melts and the trails come back to life. Hiking is a favorite in the Adirondacks, and Saranac Lake is a beautiful region for beginner and experienced hikers alike. Gently meandering paths, trails to lakeside views, and mountaintop vistas all await anyone who hikes here.
Try it, we think you'll like it!
If you're new to hiking, Saranac Lake is an ideal place to start, providing adventurers with a range of options that will fit right in to their skill set. Head out in any direction from town to find hikes that range from family-friendly to challenging. Each hike will offer something unique, from interesting geological features to stunning scenery. We have hikes close to town and others a little further afield, where you'll wind your way through pine-scented forests and past sparkling brooks. It doesn't all have to be rugged mountains; try a gentle nature walk!
Whether you're a beginner or a hiker from way back, in the Saranac Lake region you'll find hundreds of miles of beautiful trails that are ready to be explored, savored, and enjoyed. The Saranac Lake 6er Hiking Challenge, which encompasses six hikes in the region, has been a popular activity for several years.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is a great resource for more outdoor recreation-related information, including useful maps!
Hike safely during transitional seasons
Hiking during the late fall and winter seasons is a great time to enjoy the quiet trails. However, this also brings with it hunting season in the Adirondacks. During this time, hunters may also be out and about in our shared outdoors. It's important to stay alert and know who you’re on the trails with. Always prioritize safety during hunting season to enjoy your hike without incidents. We know how essential it is to prepare for your next hiking trip during hunting season, and we've come prepared with all the info you need! For more guidance on hunting zones, dates, and times, visit the NYS DEC website.
Spring hiking brings longer days, warmer temperatures, and trails bursting with life. However, it also means mud season! As snow and ice melt, trails can become soft and sensitive to erosion. Be sure to stay on designated paths, avoid widening trails, and wear proper footwear to handle the conditions. Higher elevations also mean unexpected weather! You may see snow and ice much longer into the season, or need to prepare for varying temperatures at the summit. For more guidance on responsible spring hiking, visit the NYS DEC website.
Leave No Trace and Love Your ADK Pledge
By taking the Love Your Adirondacks Pledge and practicing Leave No Trace ethics you can help ensure that the forests, waterways, and communities of the Adirondacks remain beautiful and unique for generations to come. Make sure you also check out our Hiking 101 page, a great resource for before you hit the trail! When you choose to spend time in the wild, whether it's just a few feet from downtown or deep in the backcountry, it's important to be aware of your impact, how you can hike better and more safely, and share the trail with everyone. After all, we're all on the same team!
Trail closure: The NYSDEC has announced that the Scarface Trail is closed due to unsafe public use of the bridge. The bridge and the Scarface Mountain Trail will remain closed out of an abundance of caution until the structure is replaced, which is expected some time next year (2024). Planning is underway to replace the bridge. Users should not attempt to use the bridge or cross the brook on foot.
