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A sweet lollipop. The descent from the summit along the southern section of the loop needs careful attention. It’s easy to get off track.
Black Mountain is one of those lower Adirondack hikes that gives far more than it demands.
The main route is a forgiving ascent that never feels punishing. The miles pass without much strain and you get a big, big payoff at the summit.
Black Mountain looks directly out over Lake George. The views are unusually expansive for such an accessible hike. Tongues of blue water reach deep into the surrounding mountains, with island-speckled shorelines and long ridges fading into the distance. It feels bigger and more open than many hikes of similar difficulty.
I opted for the loop route, which makes the day more interesting than simply heading up and back the same way. The descent adds several additional viewpoints overlooking the lake, along with stretches of genuinely pleasant trail through quiet forest. Though navigation on the descent required some care, as there are many intersecting trails and junctions.
This a varied hike. Easygoing in places, scenic almost throughout, and rewarding without demanding an all-day sufferfest.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike Black Mountain near Lake George
Allow 3-4 hours for this hike.
What is the elevation gain for Black Mountain in the Adirondacks
The elevation gain for this hike is 1,320 feet (apx 400 meters).
Black Mountain Hiking Trail Guide
The Black Mountain hiking trail includes…
- Easy parking
- Easy trail up / tricker trail down if you do the loop
- A fun summit
- A wonderful summit ledge with fantastic views
A full breakdown is provided below in the hike notes with lots of photos.
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Black Mountain Trail Notes & Gallery
The trail up is unremarkable but as soon as you get to the summit, the day is so worth it. There are several structures and a tower, but the ledge is the main event, and it’s superb spot for a snack or a picnic-and-a-nap. The view is spectacular…
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Similar Hikes
The lower Adirondacks are filled with banger mountains and hikes. Have a look at Moxham, Baxter, Big Crow, Jay & Jay Ridge, etc.
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Black Mountain Loop Trailhead
Popular lot.
Google Maps Location: 43.611674, -73.493065
The map below shows the exact topographic location of the trailhead
Cell Service
Patchy down low. Better up high. My network is Verizon. YMMV.
The parent mountain for this hike is Black.
