Indian Head + Fishhawk Cliffs

Indian Head and Fishhawk Cliffs provide some of the best views in the Adirondacks, especially during the fall. Located on the Adirondack Mountain Reserve, a hiking easement allows access through this private land. No dogs are allowed on AMR land. From the public trailhead, follow the dirt road up a short hill. It becomes paved next to a golf course. At the 0.5 mile mark, turn left on Lake Road Way and sign in at the trail log next to the gatehouse. Walk around the gate and continue up the dirt road for roughly 3.3 miles, watching for traffic along the way. Several routes to the top can be found on the left, but the most common loop follows the road to the most direct trail to the top and then uses the Gill Brook Trail on the way out. From the top of the last hill before the Lower Ausable Lake, turn left into the woods and follow the trail as it gradually climbs to the peak. You'll get a glimpse of Gill Brook, your return trail, on the way up to the steepest portion of the trail. Just after the wooden ladder there is a side trail on the right that leads to an overlook of Dial Mountain. It's worth the short trip. Return, and continue up the last scramble to the top. There are great views here, but they get better as you descend to the exposed rock at Indian Head. Enjoy the view of the Ausable Lakes to the southwest, Gothics and the Great Range to the north and northwest, and Fishhawk Cliffs to the south. If you've had enough you can follow the steep trail to the road on the north end of Indian Head, but for more views you'll follow the trail toward Colvin down a steep slope and back up the other side to reach Fishhawk Cliffs. This area is more secluded and offers excellent views of Indian Head and the Ausable Lakes. Continue following the trail to the intersection with the Gill Brook Trail and turn left. You'll follow the river almost all the way to the road, passing several waterfalls on the way.