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ADK Journal
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View from Bald Mountain
Mountain Views to Enjoy Again and Again
story & photos by Gary VanRiper
Mark Lowell on the summit of Gothics with its spectacular views
Mark Lowell trekking the ridge along Jay Mountain
There will likely be some snow in the shadows of the mountains in the high peaks region (I know. It was on May 24, 2007, when I hiked Big Slide, and there was still more than enough snow all along the trail on the dark side of the mountain to have a snowball fight!). After having hiked well over 100 mountains in the sixmillion-acre Adirondack Park and completed many of the mountain quests, (including the 46 highest peaks, the Adirondack Fire Tower Challenge, The Saranac 6, The Tupper Lake Triad, The Chester Challenge, and The Fulton Chain Trifecta), there is a short list of mountains I have hiked, or would like to hike, again and again.
In the high peaks region, few views compete with Pyramid Peak which is on the shoulder of Gothics which also boasts spectacular outlooks. It is a great combination to hike which, depending on your approach, can also be started or finished with a visit to Beaver Meadow Falls.
Another mountain I have been on several times is Algonquin, the second-highest peak among our mountains, second only to Mount Marcy. Aspiring 46ers who hike Algonquin for the first time, usually try to climb Wright and Iroquois mountains as well. There are marked trails for these peaks mentioned, and Algonquin may have a summit steward during the summer months to greet hikers and answer questions.
Among less ambitious climbs, I enjoyed the hike up and along Jay mountain, near Keene, which has a long ridge, with wide-open views on both sides. After walking through the forest and reaching elevation, you will come to a ‘highway’ with several bumps along the way until you finally reach the true summit. It is a long hike to the summit, but because there are such wonderful payoffs all along the way, you don’t have to hike the several miles to the end to be satisfied.
Among fire tower mountains, of course, Bald Mountain between Old Forge and Eagle Bay is always wonderful. It is a relatively modest climb and there are several commanding views of the Fulton Chain of Lakes all along the way. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve ascended this popular mountain over the years. A map table in the fire tower’s cab helps you Pyramid Peak provides some of the most stunning summit views in the Adirondacks.
Beaver Meadow Falls is a wonderful place to begin or end a loop hiking Gothics and Pyramid Peak
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identify where you are and what lies out on the horizon.
This is by no means a comprehensive list of the mountains I have climbed several times, or long to climb again. Simply examples of those peaks at various elevations and degrees of difficulty which have some of the more stunning views.
You must be in good physical condition for any of the high elevation treks. I am 67 years of age now and have always worked out all twelve months of the year to be ready as well as had an annual physical for a green light from my doctor. When hiking in these mountains: have a plan, take a map (even if trails are advertised as being marked), wear proper clothing for the time of year, and have the right gear. I do not hike the mountains without trekking poles to help maintain balance while navigating steep and irregular terrain.
Have access to plenty of water – avoid dehydration! Do not hike alone. Do have a great time!
The Adirondack Mountain Club has a wealth of information and resources to help make your experience on the trails positive and safe and safe. www.adk.org •
Gary VanRiper is an author, photographer, and pastor at the Camden Wesleyan Church. He has written 19 children’s books with his son, Justin.
Learn more at: www.adirondackkids.com
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Young Justin VanRiper at Moss Lake. Our annual trip became a family tradition.
Rondaxe Fire Tower on Bald Mountain
Sarah Birmingham enjoying the view from the summit of Algonquin Mountain in the Adirondack High Peaks
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