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Top Spring Hikes Near Lake George: 8 Scenic Trails to Explore

Posted: 3/26/2025

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Top Spring Hikes Near Lake George: 8 Scenic Trails to Explore

As the Adirondacks awaken in spring, the Lake George region transforms into a hiker’s paradise. From waterfalls and fire towers to sweeping lake views, this list of top hikes (all in or just outside of Warren County) offers something for everyone. Don’t forget your boots—some trails can be muddy in early spring!

1. Prospect Mountain

📍 Lake George Village
Distance: 3.2 miles roundtrip
Level: Moderate
Trailhead: Smith Street Trailhead, 0.2 miles from Route 9 in Lake George Village
Why We Love It: A steady climb to one of the best views of Lake George. Enjoy panoramic views at the summit, where an old cable railway station adds a dash of history.

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. Parking near the gate or falls trailhead.
Why We Love It: Waterfall + lake views = springtime perfection. The dirt access road can be rough in early spring—drive cautiously!

3. Hackensack Mountain

📍 Warrensburg, NY
Distance: ~2.7 miles roundtrip
Level: Moderate
Trailhead: Hackensack Avenue Trailhead, across from the Warren County Municipal Center
Why We Love It: Short, sweet, and scenic. A great local loop with views of Warrensburg and surrounding hills.

4. Cat Mountain

📍 Bolton Landing
Distance: 6 miles roundtrip
Level: Moderate
Trailhead: Edgecomb Pond Road, Bolton Landing (parking near the locked gate by the pond)
Why We Love It: One of the best views in the region. Peaceful forest trails lead to a spacious summit with west-facing views of the lake.

5. Berry Pond Preserve

📍 Queensbury, NY
Distance: Varies (up to 4 miles total)
Level: Easy to Moderate
Trailhead: Hudson Pointe Nature Preserve Parking Area, 450 Big Boom Rd, Queensbury OR West Mountain Road Trailhead
Why We Love It: Quiet, shaded trails with educational signs and excellent birdwatching. An underrated gem for spring.

6. Fifth Peak via Tongue Mountain Range Trail

📍 Northwest Bay, Lake George
Distance: 7.2 miles roundtrip
Level: Moderate to Challenging
Trailhead: Clay Meadows Trailhead, Route 9N (between Bolton Landing and Hague)
Why We Love It: Rugged terrain, lake views, and a lean-to at the summit make this a true Adirondack adventure.

7. Spruce Mountain Fire Tower

📍 Corinth, NY (just outside Warren County)
Distance: 3 miles roundtrip
Level: Moderate
Trailhead: Spruce Mountain Trailhead, Wells Road, Corinth (off Route 9N south of Lake Luzerne)
Why We Love It: A historic fire tower with incredible views of the Hudson Valley and Southern Adirondacks. Great for a half-day outing.

8. Pilot Knob Preserve

📍 Fort Ann, NY (just outside Warren County)
Distance: 3.8 miles roundtrip
Level: Easy to Moderate
Trailhead: Pilot Knob Road, about 1.6 miles past Camp Chingachgook. Look for the small parking lot and signage for the Lake George Land Conservancy.
Why We Love It: A gazebo lookout and optional loop trail make this a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a spring picnic with a view.

Hike with a Local Guide

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.

🥾 Adirondack Mountain & Stream Guide Service

Take your spring adventure further with a licensed NYS guide team offering day hikes, backcountry trips, and multi-season excursions.

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.

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