Mt. Van Hoevenberg (East Trail)

June 2022 | Lake Placid, NY

Region: High Peaks Wilderness

Note: this trail report is from the more recently built East Trail. This mountain can also be accessed from the South Meadows Lot (right before entering the Adirondack Loj parking lot, will be on the left.) There is no parking fee at either approach as stated.

Parking address: 31 Van Hoevenberg Way, Lake Placid (you can also type into maps “Lake Placid Bobsled Experience.”)

A note on finding the trailhead: When I visited in mid-June, there was a significant amount of construction, so I’m not sure what the path looks like now to the official start of the trail. Essentially, I had to enter the main complex building, take the stairs to the upper level, and exit behind the building/parking lot. Once I exited the building, there were signs pointing me to the trail (below) but you can also ask the staff working inside the building to point you in the right direction. If I get more recent information, I will be sure to update here. You will see signs (shown below) and you will see an official trail register to sign in to. If you don’t see any of these signs marking the way in some capacity, you are probably in the wrong section of the parking lot to pick up the trail.

The hike: Approximately 3.4 miles (5.47km) out and back, ~ 800 feet (243m) of elevation gain. Beautifully built trail the entire route with yellow blazes to the lookout view/summit area. No technical sections - very moderate with a steppingstone staircase through a lovely forest landscape.

Concluding notes: Given the size of the parking lot and the shorter length/ease of this hike, it is perfect to add on to a day of hiking, or, if you are arriving or departing the area, it is a quick one you can squeeze in. I decided to hike this on my way out of town one morning, and it was the perfect way to say farewell to the area while also moving my legs (and exploring this newer route!)

I can safely say it’s too difficult for me to choose which approach to this summit is my favorite. If you have the opportunity to hike from both approaches at some point in your time up there, I highly recommend it. You won’t be disappointed with the gorgeous trails and view!