Peaked Mountain
May 2023 | North River, NY, Siamese Ponds Wilderness
The background: This hike had been on my list for quite some time, so despite the humidity and fact that black fly season was in full force, I was still eager to get out there and see what it was all about. It’s a beautiful area of the park that I think often gets overlooked based on where it is located (a bit out of the way from the typical towns - but totally worth it.) The nearest town is North Creek (10-minute drive, home of Gore Mountain) where there are a few restaurants and a Stewart’s should you need it. Indian Lake is slightly further down route 28 (~20 minutes away.)
Getting to the trailhead: From the Northway / I-87 northbound: take exit 23 towards Warrensburg. Make a left onto Diamond Point Road and turn right onto US-9 N. In 4 miles, make a left onto NY-28S and drive for 21 miles. Make a left onto 13th Lake Road and in 3.3 miles, make a right onto Beach Road where there is a parking lot. There should not be a fee to park. Note, the Garnett Lodge is also on the properly, so you will see other parking areas and people around depending on the time of year. Your car should have no issue in 3-season weather getting to the trailhead. Cell service will be spotty and/or non-existent in certain parts. This is about a 45-minute drive from both Lake George and Long Lake (just opposite directions.)
The hike: ~7 miles (11.26km), 1,300 feet (396.24m) of elevation gain, round-trip, out-and-back. The hike starts alongside Thirteenth Lake. You’ll hit a junction for Hour Pond Trail but will stay on the path to Peaked Mountain Pond Trail. After a nice meandering walk through the forest, you’ll reach Peaked Mountain Pond, and will see the view of the mountain you will be summiting in the distance. This is where most of the elvation gain will occur, but you’ll be happy you reached the summit once you see the open view of where you just came from!
An ideal day and what you can pair this hike with: check out Balm of Gilead (read more here) which is in the same vicinity, so you won’t need to drive elsewhere. A lovely, shorter hike with slight elevation gain that leads to a small area with a gorgeous view.
