9 Best Hiking And Trekking Spots In Lake George, New York

1. Prospect Mountain

Prospect Mountain is one of the iconic landmarks in the region of Lake George. Also known to be the best hiking and trekking spots in Lake George, there are many amazing views that you can see from the top of the mountain. Whenever you are planning to visit Prospect Mountain, make sure that you drive through Veterans Memorial Highway as you can explore many breath-taking scenic outlooks. You shouldn’t miss the drive to the top of the mountain that is about 5.5-mi (8.8 km) away from the highway. It takes approximately two to three hours for you to reach the top. You can park your vehicle at the parking area and trek to the top of the mountain, exploring the nature trails of the hill. You can also watch the Lake George village, Lake George Chamber of Commerce, and many more places from the top.

Prospect Mountain

Address: Lake George, New York, USA

Website: Prospect Mountain

2. Buck Mountain

Located towards the eastern side of Lake George, Buck Mountain is also one of the best trekking spots in USA that features many unparalleled views and beautiful lakes. It’s about 3 mi (4.8 km) away from the ground, and when you are trekking to the top of the hill, you will come across many rocky and challenging sections. It’s not recommended for the children to climb the mountain. You can begin your trip to Buck Mountain from Pilot Knob Road and enter Adirondack Northway. If you are new to the place and don’t have someone to guide you, then you must follow the GPS instructions to reach Buck Mountain. It will easily take up to four to five hours for you to climb the mountain through the luscious green forests, exploring the beauty of the place. So, when are you planning to book the tickets?

Buck Mountain

Address: Fort Ann, NY 12827, USA

Website: Buck Mountain

3. Sleeping Beauty Mountain

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

If you want to improve your trekking and hiking experience when visiting Lake George, then you must visit the Sleeping Beauty Mountain. The hike to the top of the mountain is quite difficult and moderately risky with some steep switchbacks; however, the experience to trek and walk will be unforgettable for you. You will have to climb up to 7.5 mi (12 km) round-trip to reach the top of the mountain, and it takes about five to six hours to climb. It’s suitable for older children; however, it could be quite risky to take younger children for this trek. You can start your trip from the Hog Town Trailhead or the Dacy Clearing Trailhead to reach this mountain. You will also cross a 1.5-mi (2.4 km) dirt road that will connect you to Dacy Clearing Trailhead.

Sleeping Beauty Mountain

Address: Sleeping Beauty Mountain TrailFort Ann, NY 12827, USA

Website: Sleeping Beauty Mountain

4. The Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob

The Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob hike offers spectacular views of Lake George and an extended waterfall hike. Considered to be an ideal destination for all the families, this place is also a perfect destination for all aspiring hikers, irrespective of their age. It will take you about 10 minutes to reach this place from Lake George Village. If you are riding a bike, then it will take you about 20 minutes to reach the top of the mountain. You can also toss a Frisbee in an open field that is situated at the gazebo along with your family. It’s about 4.7 mi (7.5 km) away from NY State Route 9L and about 6.3 mi (10.1km) away from the lake. During your trip, you will also pass Harris Bay Yacht Club, where you can stop for a while and pick up some essential stuff that will help you during your trek.

The Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob

Address: Pilot Knob Rd, Fort Ann, NY 12827, United States

Website: The Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob

5. The Pinnacle

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

One of the best landmarks of Lake George, the Pinnacle is a 73-acres (29.5 hectares) preserve that is also known to be an ideal destination for hikers. The hiking trail is located about five minutes away from Bolton Landing. It is about 480 feet (146 meters) high and takes about 2 to 3 hours for hikers to reach the top of the mountain. Once you scale the mountain, you will come across great views of the Tongue Mountain Range, Shelving Rock, the Sagamore, the Narrows, and many other rocks that are located closeby. You can walk through the dirt road or ride your bike if you have one.

The Pinnacle

Address: Lake George, New York

Website: The Pinnacle

6. Black Mountain

Located in Washington County, New York, Black Mountain is known for being the highest point and one of the best trekking destinations for all hikers. Once you have reached the top of the mountain, you will encounter breathtaking views of Lake George. You can also watch spectacular Profile Rocks and Roger’s Slide from the top and capture some of the best moments of your life in your camera. The length of the mountain is about 2.5 mi (4 km) and takes about 2 hours for hikers to reach the top of the hill. You can start from the Whitehall to reach this mountain from the eastern side, while, from the western side, you can begin from Lake George Village.

Black Mountain

Address: Pike Brook Road Clemons, NY 12819

Website: Black Mountain

7. Cat Mountain

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Most of the hiking trails in Lake George offer amazing views of the lake and the surrounding places. However, when it comes to Cat Mountain, it gives you a fantastic view of the entire lake, mountains located towards the east and west shores of the lake, and many other hills that are located within the premises of the city. The hiking trail includes terrific views of the mountain, passing through incredible streams, many wetlands, and breath-taking ponds. It’s about 3 mi (4.8 km) away from the lake and takes about 4 hours to reach the top of the mountain. This adventurous hike can be started from Bolton Landing.

Cat Mountain

Address: Lake George, New York

Website: Cat Mountain

8. Crane Mountain

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

About 3.1 mi (4.9 km) trafficked loop trail, Crane Mountain is one of the best destinations for the hikers. It’s quite a challenging trail for all the hikers to climb this mountain; however, the experience is memorable and adventurous. The place offers a plethora of views to the hikers once they have reached the top of the hill. Passing through the luscious green forest, sloppy roads, and tighter spaces, you will see many varieties of mushrooms and blueberries. The mountain is about 3254 feet (991 meters) and takes about 6 to 7 hours for you to reach the top of the hill.

Crane Mountain

Address: Johnsburg, NY 12843, USA

Website: Crane Mountain

9. Tongue Mountain

If you want to hike a series of trails, then you must visit Tongue Mountain Range Trails soon. Located in Adirondack Mountains, this place is also an ideal destination for all the hikers in town, who visit this place during the fall to explore its beauty. The trail is about 1,258 ft (383 m) from the ground and is ranked as challenging. The trail offers many spectacular views of Montcalm Point and the lake’s shore. You can begin your journey from Clay Meadows parking lot and walk towards the southern side of Montcalm Point. It’s about 5 mi (8.04 km) away from Deer Leap trail and takes about half an hour for you to reach if you are riding a bike or driving a car.

Tongue Mountain

Address: Lake George, New York

Website: Tongue Mountain

Have a safe journey to Lake George, New York

Sometimes, it’s good to abandon your busy city life and explore the beauty of nature during an adventurous hike or trek. It helps you to re-energize and return with a positive vibe. It’s also equally important to stay safe during a mountain hike especially in a challenging environment. Be safe, and have a great time!