Mount Marcy via Van Hoevenberg Trail

This route begins at the Adirondack Loj parking area and turns around at the summit of Mount Marcy. Follow the blue-blazed Van Hoevenberg Trail from the trailhead. At 2.3 miles, reach Marcy Dam. Cross the wooden bridge downstream from the former dam structure and turn left, following signs toward Mount Marcy. At 3.0 miles, pass the junction for the Phelps Mountain Trail on the left and continue straight. At 4.3 miles, arrive at Indian Falls, crossing the stream on exposed ledges. Beyond Indian Falls, climb steeply over rocky, eroded trail, gaining over 2,100 vertical feet to the summit. At 5.5 miles, pass the junction for the trail to Bushnell Falls on the right and continue straight. Continue climbing past the Hopkins Trail junction on the left at 6.0 miles, then past the Phelps Trail junction on the left at 6.8 miles. Above 4,700 feet, the trail emerges above the treeline. Follow the yellow paint blazes on the bare bedrock to navigate the final stretch to the summit of Mount Marcy at 7.1 miles. Retrace your steps to return to the trailhead.

The highest peak in New York State, Mt. Marcy stands at an impressive 5,343' above sea-level.