Destination: Mount Marcy

The breathtaking view of the Marcy Dam.

Among the numerous scenic hikes possible in the Adirondacks, Mount Marcy is arguably the king of them all. With its summit peak reaching 5,344 feet above sea level, Mt. Marcy - also known by the old Indian name Tahawus, meaning “cloud splitter” - is the highest point in New York. In fact, only the higher peaks of the White Mountains in New Hampshire rival Marcy. The view one experiences from its rocky, dome-shaped summit truly evoke a feeling of awe and connection to nature that even the most enlightened Taoist might envy.

While there are several approaches to Mt. Marcy available, the Van Hoevenberg trail, with a scenic appeal all its own, is the shortest by over a mile and features a gradual, relatively easy ascent. So, if you are seeking a single destination to capture the essence of the Adirondacks, this approach is the hike you’re looking for.

The Van Hoevenberg trail begins at the Adirondack lodge in Lake Placid. From the parking lot, the trail is a left turn from the entrance situated in the far end of the parking area. If you spot a trail register next to a huge warning “There Are Bears At Marcy Dam” you’ve found the trailhead. Beyond the register is a listing of destinations with their respective distances, and Marcy is among them at a formidable 7.5 miles. While this hike can be done in a day, some people decide to camp out sometime during the 15 mile round trip. If camping out is something you enjoy, the trail has numerous spots to accommodate this activity; almost anywhere under 4,000 feet of elevation is allowable. Camping out gives the advantages of rest, starting points at higher elevations, and additional sunlight to spend hiking or sight seeing.

The first 2.3 miles of the trail is generally level, with slight ascents and descents that more or less cancel each other out. Upon completion of the first trek of the journey, you arrive at Marcy Dam, where the first mountain views avail themselves. Though Marcy is not yet in sight, one catches impressive views of Algonquin, Phelps, and Colden through the opening at the dam. Due to the scenic location and numerous campsites, the Marcy Dam Interior Outpost is a popular area for campers and there is a circling the dam to allow access to the many campsites and lean-tos (a three sided shelter with a overhanging roof in the open side). However, this area is sometimes crowded and shows signs of overuse and degradation. Therefore, you might consider an area off the van Hoevenberg trail that is more secluded and less compromised by human activity.

After Marcy Dam, the trail hooks right, continuing at a relatively easy grade, although a slight ascent starts to accumulate. To the left on e can see the base of Phelps Mt. (4,161 feet) along with the immediate steep pitches on one would encounter if this were their destination. While this mountain appears tempting, it ranks only 32nd overall in the Adirondacks and features both a wooded summit and unforgiving steepness. While it does offer some views worth noting, it cannot compete with the splendor of your ultimate destination.

At 2.1 miles from Marcy dam, the trail arrives at Indian Falls. From here views of Algonquin, Iroquois, and Wright peak are displayed through the opening beyond the falls. While this area appears to be a camper’s paradise, complete with spectacular views and the flowing water of Marcy Brook cascading down the falls, camping in this vicinity is currently prohibited due to overuse. However, it does make an ideal spot for an extended break to prepare for the final 2.7-mile approach to Marcy’s summit.

Upon leaving the Indian Falls area, Mt. Marcy starts to come into view above the timberline along the trail. As this view intensifies, with thick forest giving way to smaller alpine trees and vegetation, the massive rock slides on Marcy’s eastern face are displayed. Perhaps it’s at this moment you realize why you’re spending your free time engaged in a 15-mile hike. Regardless of any personal sentiment, the objective of ascending Marcy’s summit are now well within sight.

The final approach along Marcy’s southern shoulder features totally open views of what is known as the Great Range. At this moment, only the most hardened Thoryzene addict could resist a certain spiritual connection to the startling beauty around them. However, before one has a chance to fully appreciate the scenic wonders being displayed, the summit is upon them.

Finally, panoramic bliss. The stunning views encountered from here are almost as dramatic as the 14,000-foot peaks of the Colorado Rockies. To the east of Marcy lies a remarkable view of Mt. Haystack, the third highest peak, rising out of a valley known as Panther Gorge. To the west is a view of the same mountains encountered at Indian Falls, only now with much greater clarity than is possible below timberline. Due south is Mt. Skylight (fourth highest at 4,926), a peak that is very mu7ch in range from Marcy’s summit. The overall splendor of the journey to Marcy’s summit simply cannot be expressed in mere words. But this is okay: Marcy is not something to be written about or discussed. It is something to be experienced.

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