Dix Range Traverse

The Dix Range Traverse begins at the Elk Lake Trailhead and covers a strenuous route across five summits in the High Peaks Wilderness. Most hikers follow a counter-clockwise route, starting on the Elk Lake Trail and turning right at the Slide Brook herd path to ascend Macomb Mountain. From here, the unmaintained route continues along a narrow ridgeline over South Dix and East Dix (also known as Grace Peak), with expansive views and intermittent scrambling. After rejoining the ridge from Hough Peak, the route climbs steeply to the summit of Dix Mountain—the highest in the range—before descending via the Beckhorn Trail. The full traverse can be completed as a challenging one-day effort or an overnight with backcountry camping. Water is available at Slide Brook and Lillian Brook early in the route, but reliable alpine sources are scarce beyond Hough. Expect steep terrain, slippery rock, and occasional route-finding along herd paths. The route typically returns to the Elk Lake Trailhead, though some parties exit north to Route 73 via Round Pond. Either way, this is one of the best alpine hikes in the Adirondacks, with sweeping views and rugged wilderness from start to finish.