I think one of the next things I will work on is to compile my list of favorite Adirondack hikes and categorize them by length of hike, vertical gain, hike features etc. There are all types of hikes out there to satisfy all criteria.
Case in point...Silver Lakes Mountain. This mountain is north of Wilmington, NY (and Whiteface Mountain), and even north of Catamount Mountain. As the trailhead sign indicates (see below), the trail is only .9 miles long, but a steep 900' vertical gain. We were passing through on our way to Lyon Mountain, but had heard that this trail was worth the stop, so we did it.
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| On the summit ridge |
The hike took us 1.5 hours. The reward was a fabulous view to the SW of Silver Lake, Taylor Pond and Union Falls Pond. I would guess that many 6 year old kids could climb this hike and enjoy it. A nice reward without a half day of hiking.
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| Our route shown in blue (click image to enlarge) |
There is no water available on the trail once you get started, so bring your own. Bring your camera. You will snap quite a few pictures.
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| The trailhead sign along County Route 17 (just south of Hawkeye) |
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| Almost to the top |
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| Lots of lakes to the SW |
This hike is on my list of short superior hikes.
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| The summit |
Hike Stats:
Hike Distance: 2 miles
Hike Time: 1.5 hours
Total Vertical Gain: 1030'
Views: Priceless
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| Mike and Rev along the summit ridge |
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| Rev... alert on the summit |
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| This trail looks like it would be mostly dry most of the time. Leesa likes that. |
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| A pair of dice |
