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A long out-and-back.
Trailhead info at bottom of this post.
Mount Colden via Lake Arnold Trail is a long, challenging Adirondack High Peaks hike with a beautiful approach, sustained climbing, and spectacular views from one of the great summits of the central High Peaks.
Mount Colden is squeezed rather dramatically between Mount Marcy and the MacIntyre Range. This route approaches Colden from Adirondak Loj via Marcy Dam and Lake Arnold, avoiding the much more rugged approach through Avalanche Pass and up from Lake Colden.
At 12.6 miles round trip with approximately 2,750 feet of elevation gain, this is a substantial day hike, but the difficulty is not evenly distributed. The opening miles to Marcy Dam and beyond are relatively gentle. Most of the work comes later, as the trail climbs toward Lake Arnold and then turns sharply upward for the final ascent of Mount Colden.
The reward is a superb High Peaks summit. Colden’s exposed upper ledges offer enormous views across to Algonquin Peak and the MacIntyre Range, Mount Marcy, and deep into the surrounding valleys.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike Mount Colden via Lake Arnold Trail?
Allow 8–10 hours for this hike. My hike took 8 hours, including just over an hour of stopped time.
What is the elevation gain for Mount Colden via Lake Arnold Trail?
The elevation gain for this route is approximately 2,750 feet / 840 meters.
Mount Colden via Lake Arnold Trail Hiking Trail Guide
The Mount Colden via Lake Arnold Trail hiking route includes:
- Adirondak Loj
- Marcy Dam
- Lake Arnold
- Ladders, boardwalks, challenging scrambles, mud
- Epic views from Colden’s summit
A full breakdown is provided below in my hike notes with lots of photos.
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Mount Colden via Lake Arnold Trail Notes & Gallery
Start well at the Loj by arriving super early—which means before dawn in peak hiking season.
The hike in to Marcy Dam gives your legs few easy miles to warm up.
From there, you can see the slide-streaked-side of Mount Colden itself, and the lower Avalanche Mountain to the right…
Cross Marcy Brook and head east.
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Mount Colden via Lake Arnold Trail Trailhead
Very large parking areas but get here before dawn in summer if you want a spot.
Google Maps Location: 44.183083, -73.964287
The map below shows the exact topographic location of the trailhead
Cell Service
Cell signal up high but not down low. The Loj has unreliable, spotty WiFi. My network is Verizon. YMMV.
The parent mountain for this hike is Mount Colden.
