Allen Mountain is the twenty-sixth tallest mountain in New York. There is no official trail to Allen’s summit, thus hikers follow a herd path and a series of logging roads. Allen Mountain is considered one of the most difficult High Peaks to hike because of the distance of the hike. This hike is recommended for experienced hikers.
Distance: 9 miles to the summit, thus 18 mile round trip
Ascent: 2,540 feet
Elevation: 4,340 feet
Primary Trailhead: To reach the trailhead from Lake Placid follow Route 73 toward Keene. Drive through Keene and Keene Valley and proceed back to I-87. Head south on I-87 and get off exit 29 and follow the Blue Ridge Road (CR 84) toward Newcomb. Continue for roughly 18-miles to the Tahawus Road (CR25) on the right. Follow this road for 6.3 miles and then turn left at a junction for another 3 miles to a trailhead on the right.
Trail Route: From the trailhead you will descend a bit to a bridge crossing of the Hudson River. After a short walk through an attractive forest you will come to Lake Jimmy and take a sharp left turn for a new bypass that avoids the not-so-good floating bridge. Much of the hike will bring you along a state trail that follows not only foot trails but old woods roads and even a gravel road or two. There is now a bridge over the Opalescent River, ending the need to wade.
At 5 miles go right on a plain but unmarked trail, often referred to as a “herd path”. The herd path is very apparent and is the most attractive portion of the route. As you approach the top and start following Allen Brook the terrain gets much steeper. Along Allen Brook there is a slide that can be climbed, but care is needed as it is very slippery – a rough herd path on the side will avoid the exposed rock. The summit is treed but off to the side there is an opening or two to take in excellent views of the area.
History: Allen Mountain was named for Frederick B. Allen (1840–1925) in 1869. Many experienced hikers in the area consider Allen to be the most difficult to climb of the 46 Adirondack High Peaks.
Location: Allen Mountain is located between the Town of Newcomb and Town of Keene, in Essex County, in the Northern region of New York State.