News Blog

Top Spring Hikes Near Lake George: Scenic Trails to Explore

Posted: 3/19/2026

Share this post:

Top Spring Hikes Near Lake George: Scenic Trails to Explore

If you’re ready to get back outside after winter, spring is a great time to explore the trails in the Lake George Region. Waterfalls are at their peak, the crowds are lighter, and you’ll start to catch those early-season views before the trees fully leaf out. Here are a few favorite hikes in and around Warren County to get you started.

1. Prospect Mountain

📍 Lake George Village
Distance: 3.2 miles roundtrip
Level: Moderate
Trailhead: Smith Street Trailhead, 0.2 miles from Route 9

Why We Love It:
A steady climb leads to one of the most iconic views in the Lake George Region. At the summit, enjoy panoramic lake views alongside remnants of the historic cable railway—adding a unique sense of place.

2. Shelving Rock Falls & Mountain

📍 Fort Ann, NY (east side of Lake George)
Distance: 1.7 miles (falls), 3.4 miles roundtrip (mountain)
Level: Easy to Moderate
Trailhead: Shelving Rock Road, off Buttermilk Falls Road

Why We Love It:
Spring is peak waterfall season, and Shelving Rock delivers. Pair the falls with a climb to the mountain for lake views. Note: the access road can be rough in early spring—plan accordingly.

3. Hackensack Mountain

📍 Warrensburg, NY
Distance: ~2.7 miles roundtrip
Level: Moderate
Trailhead: Hackensack Avenue Trailhead

Why We Love It:
A quick, rewarding hike with big views. Ideal for a spontaneous outing or sunset trek overlooking Warrensburg and the surrounding Adirondack foothills.

4. Cat Mountain

📍 Bolton Landing
Distance: 6 miles roundtrip
Level: Moderate
Trailhead: Edgecomb Pond Road

Why We Love It:
A local favorite with one of the best summit views of Lake George. The peaceful forest approach opens up to a wide, west-facing overlook—perfect in the softer light of spring evenings.

5. Berry Pond Preserve

📍 Queensbury, NY
Distance: Up to 4 miles
Level: Easy to Moderate
Trailheads: Hudson Pointe Nature Preserve or West Mountain Road

Why We Love It:
Quiet, scenic, and often overlooked. Interpretive signage and birdwatching opportunities make this a great early-season hike when higher elevations are still muddy.

6. Fifth Peak via Tongue Mountain Range Trail

📍 Northwest Bay, Lake George
Distance: 7.2 miles roundtrip
Level: Moderate to Challenging
Trailhead: Clay Meadows, Route 9N

Why We Love It:
For those ready to stretch their legs, this rugged trail rewards with incredible lake views and a lean-to at the summit. A true Adirondack experience.

7. Spruce Mountain Fire Tower

📍 Corinth, NY (just outside Warren County)
Distance: 3 miles roundtrip
Level: Moderate
Trailhead: Spruce Mountain Trailhead, Wells Road

Why We Love It:
This classic Adirondack fire tower hike is especially rewarding in spring before full leaf-out. Climb the restored tower for sweeping views of the Hudson Valley and Southern Adirondacks—an excellent half-day adventure just outside the Lake George Region.

8. Pilot Knob Preserve

📍 Fort Ann, NY (just outside Warren County)
Distance: 3.8 miles roundtrip
Level: Easy to Moderate
Trailhead: Pilot Knob Road

Why We Love It:
A scenic gazebo overlook makes this a standout for casual hikers. The well-maintained trails and manageable distance make it a great option for families or a relaxed spring outing.

🥾 Insider Tips for Spring Hiking in the Adirondacks

Spring hiking comes with a few nuances—here’s how to make the most of it:

Embrace the mud (and plan for it):
Spring conditions can be wet and soft. Wear waterproof boots and stick to the center of the trail to help prevent erosion.
Check seasonal access roads:
Roads like Shelving Rock may be gated or rough due to mud season. Always confirm access before heading out.
Start lower, hike smarter:
Lower elevation trails dry out faster and are often in better condition early in the season.
Watch for ice at higher elevations:
Microspikes may still be useful in early spring, especially on shaded sections.
Waterfalls are at their best right now:
Snowmelt means stronger flows—prioritize hikes with water features this time of year.
Leave No Trace matters more than ever:
Trails are more vulnerable during mud season. Staying on trail protects the landscape for the rest of the year

Additional Hiking Resources

Let a pro lead the way! These local guide services—both Chamber members—offer custom hiking experiences in the Lake George region:

🥾 Hike with Jackson

Explore scenic trails with a seasoned local who tailors every outing to your ability level and interests. Jackson’s knowledge of plants, animals, and local lore adds a fun, educational element to your hike.

Looking for more trails? Explore additional hiking options and conditions through the Lake George Land Conservancy and the Adirondack Mountain Club.*

Spring Is Calling—Are You Ready?

There’s no better way to shake off winter than by hitting the trails. Whether you're scaling peaks or strolling to waterfalls, these spring hikes near Lake George promise fresh air, scenic beauty, and that undeniable Adirondack magic.

View Recreation Mapper

Back to News Blog

Join Us

Learn about what our Chamber can offer you!

Sign Up for our Visitor Newsletter

Web Site Design & Hosting by Nolee-O Web Design