5 Great Options for Spring Hikes

We’ve all been there: winter (no matter where you have been) feels like it has stretched on forever. Every day the sun is creeping higher on the horizon and you’re feeling that itch to get out and do something, so I say, “brush that cabin fever away, embrace that springtime feeling and go do it!”

In the spring, no matter what you see on the ground in the Adirondacks — snow, a little mud, green grass — or what kind of precipitation is falling, the sounds and smells of spring will be all around you. But it is because of the fickle weather that you can find trails that are peaceful, quiet, and significantly less crowded than on summer days.

Adirondack weather can be a bit unpredictable in the spring (anywhere from 80 degrees and sunny to full on blizzard conditions) so it’s important to check weather and trail conditions and to be prepared for just about anything. Be sure to plan ahead and bring the proper gear with you on a spring hike! It’s an adventurous time to get out on the trail, and the weather might be warm and sunny in the morning, but can change quickly to cold temperatures and freezing rain. And, of course, don't forget to please abide by Leave No Trace principles!

Here are five suggestions all around the heart of the Adirondacks that cover a variety of spring hiking possibilities. Check the weather forecast and current trail conditions and pick one that works for you!

Boardwalk - Ferd's Bog

1. Birding - Inlet - Ferd’s Bog Trail (Easy 0.6 mile round trip)

Part of the Pigeon Lake Wilderness Area, Ferd’s Bog is a great short hike on a boardwalk over Ferd’s Bog. This location is a favorite for birders all season long as it is frequented by gray jays, Nashville parula and palm warblers, as well as olive-sided and yellow-bellied flycatchers. As an added bonus, see how many Adirondack bog trees, shrubs, and wildflowers you can identify: tamarack, bog rosemary, or maybe even a carnivorous pitcher plant. Bring along your binoculars and your favorite birding and bog plant books. Who knows what you might be able to see!

Hiking alongside Auger Falls

2. Waterfall - Lake Pleasant - Auger Falls (1.25 mile loop)

Springtime can be the perfect time to check out the amazing waterfalls in our area. As the snowpack from winter melts, these sights can be quite spectacular! Just north of where Route 8 meets Route 30 — in the township of Wells — is one of the most ideal spots to observe a spring deluge: Auger Falls. Part of our waterfall challenge, Auger Falls consists of a long series of cascading falls, punctuated by impressive plunges. You can follow a trail along the western bank of the East Sacandaga River, which has a number of great viewing spots. Remember to be careful! There are steep areas along this gorge and in the spring these spots could be very slippery.

Planks over vegetation on the Northville Placid Trail

3. Low elevation hike - Piseco - Northville-Placid Trail in to Hamilton Lake Stream lean-to (7.4 miles round trip)  

In the springtime, it is not unusual to hike a trail with pockets of deep snow still covering the trail. Because of this, it is important to stick to the actual trail, which is marked with Department of Environmental Conservation trail markers. Hiking on the marked trail, in spite of mud or deep snow, preserves the flora alongside the trail and it will help you from losing your way as you hike.
The NPT is a 133-mile trail between Northville and Lake Placid. Along the route, there are a number of access points from major roads. This section of the NPT is an out and back hike.

Park along Route 8 in Piseco and then hike in about 4 miles. This will take you to the lean-to, a cool suspension bridge over Hamilton Lake Stream, and a scenic campsite and picnic spot next to the stream. If it’s early spring, be sure to bring along some snowshoes, even if there’s no snow visible at the Route 8 trailhead. Follow the directions on this link backward from the 26.6 mile marker to reach Hamilton Lake Stream at the 22.8 mile marker.

Field at the trailhead to Kings Flow / Puffer Pond loop

4. Loop - Indian Lake - Kings Flow / Puffer Pond loop (full loop is about 5.3 miles)

Feel up to a moderate-length loop hike? Then head to Indian Lake for a hike on the Kings Flow/Puffer Pond loop. Starting at the parking area for Chimney Mountain,* take the loop in a clockwise direction. You’ll hike past Bullhead Mountain, Puffer Pond, and the Puffer Pond lean-to, a great spot for a quick snack break! The trail then turns north and comes out to a fabulous scenic view of Kings Flow. Continuing north, the trail will lead you back to the grassy parking area where you started your hike. Although there are some climbs along the way, this loop is a great family day hike. Make note of this trailhead so you can come back later in the season for a hike up beautiful Chimney Mountain.

*This is an honor system pay to use parking lot — simply pop your $2 fee in the small kiosk.

Mom and kids on top of Coney Mountain

5. Easy mountain peak - Long Lake - Coney Mountain (0.9 miles to the summit)

I would be remiss if I did not include at least one mountain peak that is easy to get to. After all, if you’re up for the challenge, there’s no reason not to use the spring season to bag another peak! Coney Mountain is not a difficult mountain hike, which means that even families with young children should be able to reach the summit in less than an hour. Once there, take in the view! The spring is a great time to truly enjoy the beautiful panoramic view at the top. The trees may still be bare, allowing you to see for miles, or spring buds may be starting to pop, giving the entire vista a picturesque greenish haze.

No matter where you hike this spring, be sure to complete your day with a stop at one of our nearby restaurants to try out some tasty treats!

Spring waters rushing through Auger Falls

Winter Events 2022-2023

Looking for something to keep you busy in the winter months? We have got some events coming up to keep you entertained! The new year looks promising and there are a lot of exciting...

Where to Chill Out and Where to Warm Up

We get lots of snow here in the winter, so why not get out and enjoy it? Here is a list of places where you can go to chill out and have some fun, and some places to shake that...

3 Fishing Holes in Indian Lake

With not one but three lakes in the area, Indian Lake is a fishermen's paradise. Lake Abanakee, Adirondack Lake, and Indian Lake are all close to the community of Indian Lake,...

A Two for One Morning in Indian Lake

This fall has been one of the best foliage seasons we have had in years. I had an itch to do some fall hiking even though we were past peak foliage, I knew it would still be...

The Peaks at Peak

We had one seriously hot summer, but as quickly as September arrived, so did the beautiful cool weather that makes us all turn off the air conditioners and crack the windows at...

Winter Options on Watch Hill

Watch Hill may not be a big mountain, but it's got a lot to offer - from unique views of the central Adirondacks to a mix of hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Located...

Where to Find the Coolest Stuff

If you are anything like me, when you have the chance to do some shopping, you love to wander around and spend time looking at everything. Whether you are in the market for a...

Short Hikes

Known for its High Peaks and tough trails, hiking in the Adirondacks can seem a little daunting for beginners or those with families. But, I’m here to tell you, while we do have...

The Perfect Camping Experience for Your Family

The snow is gone, there’s a warm breeze that has the whole family just itching to get outside, and that awesome camping gear that you got over the holidays is calling to you. At...

Best Places to Fish

We all know that avid fishermen are notoriously tight-lipped about their fishing spots. So much so that when I asked around about favorites, the most useful response I got was "on...

5 Great Options for Spring Hikes

We’ve all been there: winter (no matter where you have been) feels like it has stretched on forever. Every day the sun is creeping higher on the horizon and you’re feeling that itch...

Top 4 Ways to Enjoy Winter

You may be thinking “I’m getting the winter blues and I need a vacation,” and I know the first thing that pops into your head is somewhere tropical, but why not try something...

Skates, Skis or Snowshoes!

Wintertime gear includes so many innovative contraptions to strap onto your feet! And maybe you JUST got those brand new ones and you are DYING to try them out! Well, come on up to...

Your Guide to Holiday Shopping

Summer is now just a tiny speck in the rear view as we fly through fall, headed straight for winter. That means it's time to pack up the Halloween decorations, maybe put up a few...

Rainy Days: A Great Way to Enjoy the Adirondacks

Many Adirondack plans are made when you are picturing that perfect crisp royal blue sky day….But, the weather may have other ideas in mind. Instead of getting frustrated and feeling...

Put Your Best Foot Forward This Hunting Season

It was mid afternoon as I made my way to the tree that had been my “spot” for about a week now. I quickly assembled my climbing tree stand and then carefully worked my way up the...

It’s Time To Think Snow!

OK, I know what you're thinking: No. Way. "I haven't even gone trick-or-treating with the kids yet." "I have 17 relatives coming for Thanksgiving dinner!" But...YES, WAY! Now is the...

Top 4 Scenic Foliage Drives

Indian Lake to Speculator   Trip distance: 34 miles This drive will give you gorgeous scenic views of the fall foliage, as well as views of two beautiful Adirondack lakes. Starting...

Beach Cruiser Biking...Adirondack Style

There are different ways you can experience the Adirondacks on bike: bike tours, mountain biking, singletrack trails, bike races, triathlons, and even a quadrathlon. I’m not a racer...

Summertime = Beachtime

One of my favorite summertime activities here in the Adirondacks is taking my kids and spending the day at the beach. We love to go to the public beach in Speculator. This is the...

Fishing for a Good Time With Your Kids

Whether you’re looking for a way to get your kids outdoors, sneak in a little extra family time, or just go out and show your son or daughter how to catch their own dinner, fishing...

Guide to a great day on the Hudson!

“All Forward!” “Stop!” “Back on the right!” “Hit the deck!” For eight years as a licensed whitewater raft guide, I’ve called out these - and other - commands to many different crews...

Skis and Snacks

The air is super crisp, cold, and clean as I drop my skis down at the trailhead. A fluffy poof of snow jumps into the air where the skis land. I take a deep breath and look around....

Things To Do Indoors

We are right in the thick of winter here in the Adirondacks and let me tell you what, it has been COLD! There have been many consecutive nights of negative temperatures — some...

A Gift For Everyone

We all know people who are just impossible to shop for. Well, let me break down the perfect Adirondack gifts — by personality! The Adventure Seeker Do you know someone who's an...

Holiday Shopping Ugh

We all know that sometimes holiday shopping can be a real drag. Going to the same stores, shopping for the same people - who seem to have everything ... This year, why not mix it up...

Plan Out Your Adirondack Winter!

C'mon, everyone! Get ready for some winter fun! (And maybe cross a few gift purchases off your list!) When I woke up this morning, it was 4 degrees. There's also a nice 2-inch layer...

Stories of the Adirondacks

A place this full of history needs people to tell its stories, which is why we are fortunate enough to have a rich supply of historians, songwriters, and storytellers.  INLET'S...

Adirondack Oddities

Driving through the Adirondacks, no matter what time of year, is always beautiful. But if you've ever driven though our little towns, you have probably seen a few of our roadside...

Fall on the water!

Last week I was fortunate enough to head out on Piseco Lake for a beautiful sunset cruise with some great friends. My husband, kids, and I  got to have a lovely lake-front dinner of...

Fall Events

We are just as sad as you that summer seems to be coming to an end far too quickly. However, just because summer is almost over, it doesn't mean the fun has to stop! There are tons...

My Favorite Restaurants

The Adirondacks are a great place for many things such as hiking, paddling, and camping. But one of the things done really well here is food! I haven't had the chance to eat at all...

7 Days at Lake Durant

My adventures in car camping began a few years ago. While paddling on a local lake, I encountered a friend paddling with other people from the Albany area. I was all ears when they...

Adirondack Experience The Museum On Blue Mountain Lake

As many of you know, our beloved museum in Blue Mountain Lake has undergone a lot of changes in the last few months.  They have changed from The Adirondack Museum to  Adirondack...

Adirondack Fourth of July

One of my favorite times of the year is coming up — and it's coming up fast! I don't know about you, but when I think about summer, I think about camping, s'mores, fireworks, and...

Golfing in the Adirondacks

The following was written by Christy Wilt, the director of tourism and economic development for Hamilton County. Christy has lived in the Adirondacks for over 20 years and has been...

Black Fly Challenge... Accepted!

 Editor's note: The annual Black Fly Challenge will be held on Saturday, June 10, 2017. Not sure what the challenge is or why you would want to take it? Check out this fun blog...

Things to Do Along the Way

Memorial Day is right around the corner, and you know what that means... It's time for the Great Adirondack Garage Sale! With sales from Speculator to Inlet to Indian Lake to Long...

Down on one knee in the 'dacks

What is romance? When some people think of romance, they immediately imagine the classics: candlelit dinner, fancy restaurant, picnic in the park... For romantic gifts, they revert...

RaChelle's Law

In my house, Murphy's Law is not a thing. We refer to it as RaChelle's Law... if it can go wrong, it already has - or it will! This is the way my life goes in general, but...

Got Cabin Fever?

Spring fever... cabin fever... Call it what you will — I'm feeling it! We've had a fantastic winter season, but lately we've had a lot of warm temperatures and rain, usually...

Cross-Country Skiing in the Adirondacks

So far this year, we have had a fantastic winter. There is certainly no shortage of snow! Storm after storm has dumped plenty of the fluffy white stuff on us.  The fantastic thing...

Valentine's Day Tradition

While this will be mine and my husband's first Valentine's Day as a married couple, it is hardly our first rodeo. This will be our 11th Valentine's Day together. Our first being on...

Ice Skating In The Adirondacks

With temperatures regularly lingering below freezing, don't forget to pack your ice skates this winter for your next Adirondack adventure! While most people come here to go skiing...

Winter Events

This year, I made a resolution to stay home more.  Well, that went out the window fast! There are just way too many great events going on to sit at home. There is a little something...