Adirondack Hiking Challenges

The Adirondacks are home to a large network of trails connecting peaks, ponds, historical sites and so much more. Within this region, 46 mountains over 4,000 feet in elevation stand above New York's largest wilderness area. To climb all 46 Hike Peaks is a challenge, indeed.

But the Adirondacks are also home to many other beautiful hikes that are far less daunting. Choose from hikes to a fire tower, waterfall, or scenic overlook. Many hikes are dog-friendly, as long as your pup is leashed.

Choose a from one of the challenges below that piques your interest to start, then return and try them all one-by-one!

Download our Hiking Guide

Local Adirondack Hiking Challenges

Lake George 12ster - Traverse 12 peaks surrounding Lake George, nearly 40 miles of trails, and up to 9,000 feet of elevation gain.
Chester Challenge – Complete six hikes around the Town of Chester and “enjoy a bird's eye view of surrounding peaks, waterways and nature.”
Lake Placid 9’er – Enjoy breathtaking views of the Adirondacks from mountains that can be hiked in a morning or afternoon
Adirondack 46ers – Climb 46 high peaks, most of which are over 4,000 ft, in the Adirondacks.
LC33 - Hike 33 miles of trails in Lewis County.
Moriah Challenge - This quartet of Champlain Area Trails (CATS) hikes leads to rocky summits, a fire tower, and a backcountry body of water.
Northern Pathways Challenge (CATS) - Choose three hikes, over half of which are beginner friendly, in the Champlain area and earn a patch.
WOW (Wonders of Wilmington) Hiking Challenge invites hikers to explore some of Wilmington’s best trails.

Hiking Challenges with a Twist

Tupper Triad – Complete three hikes or three paddles around Tupper Lake to complete this challenge.
ADK-9 Challenge –Dog-friendly hikes! Earn a patch for you and your pup.
ADK Fire Tower Challenge – Experience spectacular views from fire towers in the Adirondacks along with five in the Catskills.
Hamilton County Fire Tower Challenge – Hike seven historic fire towers in Hamilton County.
Hamilton County Waterfall Challenge - Choose from 19 waterfall hikes to accumulate 12 points to earn this patch.
Great 8 Challenge – Choose from riverside hikes, nature trails or waterfalls to experience St Lawrence County.

All hikers should be prepared for the hike based on personal level of fitness and hiking experience, planned distance and the time of year. The following are items local Adirondack hikers always consider or carry with them. If you will be hiking with a pet, please consider their needs as well.

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