The Pinnacle

The Pinnacle Mountain Trail begins from a small trailhead on an unnamed road north of Santa Clara Road in the northern Adirondack Park. From the trailhead, the route climbs steadily through a dense mix of northern hardwoods and boreal forest. Though unmarked and faint in places, the trail follows a generally northerly direction toward the summit of Pinnacle Mountain. Early on, hikers may pass small intermittent streams, but water sources are unreliable later in the season. At several points along the ascent, expect steep, rocky pitches that require hands for balance—especially in wet or icy conditions. After a sustained climb, the route ends at the remote summit of Pinnacle Mountain, where partial views open up over the surrounding northern foothills. This is a lightly traveled area with a high likelihood of encountering wildlife, including black bears, moose, and birds of prey. While the route is open year-round, winter travel requires snowshoes and confident navigation, as the path is unmarked and overgrown in places. Cell service is unreliable, and bear canisters are recommended for overnight use. The summit’s solitude and wild setting offer a true backcountry experience for prepared hikers.