Algonquin Peak is the second tallest mountain in New York and the tallest in the MacIntyre Range. Algonquin’s bald summit offers a stunning 360 degree view, with a stellar vantage point looking out on the face of Mount Colden.
Distance: 4.3 miles to the summit, thus 8.6 mile round trip when taking the shortest route
Ascent: 2,936 feet
Elevation: 5,114 feet
Primary Trailhead: The shortest and most popular route leaves from the High Peaks Information Center parking lot, near Adirondak Loj. There is a parking fee ($10 for full day, $5 after 1 p.m.) to use this large lot. This lot fills quickly so plan an early start to your hike if you hope to nab a coveted parking spot. To reach this lot from Lake Placid on Route 73, turn right on Adirondack Loj Road, and follow it to its end. Pay the fee at the booth, even if no one is inside.
Trail Route: Algonquin is a 4.3 mile hike, one way with mixed terrain. The typical route starts out along the popular hiking trail that leads to Marcy Dam. At 0.9 miles you will come to an intersection that you continue straight through to head up to Algonquin. From here the terrain gets steadily steeper to a waterfall at 2.6 miles.
Many hikers opt to hike Wright Peak in conjunction with Algonquin Peak. The intersection for Wright Peak is reached at 3.4 miles. Adding Wright Peak requires taking a steep .4 mile trail to Wright’s summit via the Algonquin Trail, thus adding .8 miles of challenging hiking added to your Algonquin Peak journey.
Continuing on from the Wright Peak junction, experienced hikers can reach Algonquin’s summit in 30-40 minutes. The final ascent up Algonquin is a very steep climb that will get you to tree line. On a clear day, hikers are treated to some of the best summit views in the Adirondack Park. Above the tree line you are completely exposed to the elements until you return below the tree-line; therefore, be prepared for colder temperatures and wind. If visibility is limited, be sure to carefully follow the cairns (rock piles) and paint marks – especially on the descent.
If you were to go up and over the summit, you’ll notice carins lining down the backside of Algonquin leading towards Iroquois Peak which is an additional mile. Many hikers will opt not to continue on toward Iroquois Peak after a strenuous uphill hike to Algonquin or if the weather provides poor visibility on the summit.
Should you choose to follow the carins down toward the Iroquois trail, you’ll see an arrow pointing left, do NOT take it. Go right and take a narrow path. As you continue this direction, the rocks get steep and you’ll have to climb part of it. Shorter people and children will have difficulties here. Once you make it over Boundary Peak (not considered an Adirondack High Peak), Iroquois is the next one. Just keep following the trail and carins and you’ll be rewarded with more great views.
History: Algonquin’s names comes from its reputedly being on the Algonquian side of a nearby informal boundary between the Algonquian and their Iroquois neighbors.
Location: Algonquin Peak is located in the Town of North Elba, in Essex County, in the Northern region of New York State.