How to Plan a Hike Up Mt. Marcy
The top of the Empire State Building is one way to enjoy New York State, but if you want to see more than city landscape, your best bet is a hike up Mt. Marcy. As part of the Adirondack Mountain Range, Mt. Marcy rises 5,433 feet above sea level and it's the highest point in New York State. Views from the peak reach into Canada, Vermont and even New Hampshire.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Challenging
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- For detailed trail notes, get a copy of the book, High Peaks Region, which is published by the Adirondack Mountain Club.
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1
Decide when you will travel. If you want to avoid snow then you probably want to travel between June and August. The mountain is often covered in snow from October to May and this makes for more challenging climbing.
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2
Identify the route you will take up the mountain. There are four major approaches starting from four different locations including: Keene Valley, Heart Lake, Upper Works near Tahawus and Elk Lake. The shortest route, which starts at Heart Lake, follows the Va Hoevenburg Trail and runs about 15 miles, round trip.
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3
Determine if you want to make the ascent in one day, or if you will break up the journey over the course of two days. The main camping area to Mt. Marcy is located at the Marcy Dam.
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4
Prepare for your hike the day before by packing the necessary supplies. This will allow you to get up early and get a rested start on your hike.
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5
Sign in at the trailhead. There should be a register there, where you can sign your name and your destination. When you return, be sure to sign out.
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6
Pace yourself up the mountain. This is a long hike and if you go too fast in the beginning, you may find yourself without the energy necessary to return.
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7
Enjoy the view from the top and rest.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are not an experienced hiker, then you should visit with your doctor before departing. Be sure that you are physically able to handle the trip.
When you spend the night, be sure to tie up your food and any clothing that you were wearing while cooking. This region is known for black bears, who are not shy about helping themselves.
Bring the following for day hikes: water, food, pocket knife, maps, mosquito spray and common sense.
Dress in comfortable layers. Weather changes rapidly here. You want to be prepared for rain, cold and heat.
Wear good hiking shoes that provide support around your ankles.
Don't drink the water. Unfortunately, the water in this region is contaminated with Giardia cysts and it will likely make you sick.
Avoid hiking when the black flies are at their worst, during early June.
Do not build camp fires. They are not allowed except at designated areas.
Do not camp above 4,000 feet.
Do not leave trash anywhere on the trail or mountain. Carry out everything you bring.
Avoid leaving the trail, especially in the sensitive Alpine vegetation areas.
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Comments
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can't wait to do this :)
