The best walks and hikes around Old Forge

This guide features 8 distinct hiking routes around Old Forge. The region, nestled within the vast Adirondack Park, offers an extensive network of trails, with the park boasting over 2,000 miles of summits, nature trails, and scenic loops for all skill levels.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from picturesque mountains and the Fulton Chain of Lakes to lush forests and wildlands, offering stunning vistas and serene natural settings.

Old Forge offers hiking opportunities throughout much of the year. Spring and fall provide beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures, while summer is ideal for enjoying the lakes and warmer weather. Winter offers unique experiences like snowshoeing, but trails may require specific gear and conditions knowledge.

Yes, Old Forge has many trails suitable for families. The region research highlights trails like Bald Mountain (Rondaxe Mountain) for its manageable 1.9-mile ascent to a fire tower, Wheeler Pond for a flat, easy two-mile round trip, and Moss Lake Loop for scenic walks. Cathedral Pines also offers a short, family-friendly hike.

Absolutely. For beginners, the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail is an easy 4.0-mile path following the Lackawanna River. Another great option is the Campbell's Ledge Lookout Trail, an easy 1.6-mile route that, despite some elevation gain, leads to a scenic viewpoint. The Rock with a View Trail is also an easy, shorter option.

Many trails in the Old Forge area are dog-friendly, especially within the broader Adirondack Park. For example, the Cascade Lake Trail near Eagle Bay is noted as welcoming dogs on leash. It's always best to check specific trail regulations before heading out, but generally, the region is accommodating for hikers with canine companions.

While this guide focuses on easier routes, the Old Forge area, as part of the Adirondack Park, offers more challenging options. Trails like Black Bear Mountain near Inlet and Rocky Mountain provide moderate challenges with varying terrain and elevation. The Middle Settlement trail is also mentioned for its longer distance and elevation changes through a 'fairytale-like wilderness'.

For panoramic vistas, Bald Mountain (Rondaxe Mountain) is highly recommended, featuring a historic fire tower at its summit with 360-degree views of the Adirondacks and the Fulton Chain of Lakes. The Campbell's Ledge Lookout Trail also provides a scenic viewpoint after a moderate climb.

Yes, the Old Forge region is home to several natural attractions. You can discover Death Falls (also known as Secret Falls), a beautiful waterfall. Tranquil spots like Wheeler Pond offer a quiet, woodsy experience, and Cathedral Pines is known for its towering trees and a viewpoint of Seventh Lake.

Hiking around Old Forge means immersing yourself in diverse Adirondack landscapes. You'll encounter picturesque mountains, the scenic Fulton Chain of Lakes, and extensive lush forests, including areas like the Black River Wild Forest. Many trails offer views of pristine lakes and surrounding wooded areas, with some peaks featuring historic fire towers.

Parking is generally available at popular trailheads in the Old Forge area, though specific availability can vary. For well-known spots like Bald Mountain, designated parking areas are usually provided. It's advisable to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.

Public transport options directly to specific trailheads in Old Forge are limited. Most visitors rely on personal vehicles to access the diverse range of hiking opportunities throughout the Adirondack Park. Some local shuttle services might be available for specific attractions, but it's not a widespread system for trail access.

Beyond the trails, you can explore several interesting landmarks. The Campbells Ledge Reservoir is a notable natural feature. The nearby city of Scranton offers urban attractions, and you can also visit the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail and Luzerne County Levee Trail, or enjoy the Riverfront Park.

Yes, loop hikes are a great way to experience the diverse scenery without retracing your steps. The Campbell's Ledge and Reservoir Loop is a moderate 4.3-mile option. Another similar route is the Campbell's Ledge & Reservoir loop, an easy 3.6-mile trail. The Cascade Lake Trail is also mentioned as a 5.7-mile loop.