Near Mount Marcy via Van Hoevenberg Trail
Approaching the summit of Mt. Marcy.
Near Mount Marcy via Van Hoevenberg Trail
Almost to the top.
Near Mount Marcy via Van Hoevenberg Trail
Just follow the "yellow brick road!"
Near Mount Marcy via Van Hoevenberg Trail
Phelps Brook Dam Pond
Near Mount Marcy via Van Hoevenberg Trail
Little Marcy

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Hike Route

Mount Marcy via Van Hoevenberg Trail

4.7 (30 Ratings)
A classic and direct ascent through the High Peaks Wilderness to the alpine summit of Mount Marcy, New York's highest peak, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Adirondack High Peaks.
14.1
mi
Distance
3,540
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
Fall ColorsLakeRiver/CreekScenicViewsWaterfallWildlife
Access Issues
<p>Permits are not required for day hikes or overnight trips; however, parking at the Adirondack Loj trailhead requires a daily fee. Parking can fill up early during the summer and peak autumn foliage seasons.<p> <p>Wilderness regulations apply within the High Peaks Wilderness.<p>

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
14.13mi
Distance
3,540ft
Elevation Gain
3,540ft
Elevation Loss
35%
Max Grade
5,344ft
High Point
2,092ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
<p>This route begins at the Adirondack Loj parking area and turns around at the summit of Mount Marcy.<p> <p>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.<p> <p>Retrace your steps to return to the trailhead.<p>
History & Background
The highest peak in New York State, Mt. Marcy stands at an impressive 5,343' above sea-level.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
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