Noonmark + Round Mountain Loop

September 12, 2022 | Keene Valley, NY

Region: Adirondacks, High Peaks Wilderness

The background: I had always heard in passing how amazing both of these hikes were, but was laser-focused on climbing all 46 High Peaks the last several years. Ultimately these were put on the backburner for a bit; however, having completed the 46-ers a few months earlier, I now had some time to focus my energy (and limited time in the region since I live so far away) on the “other hikes” on my list. This hike is an excellent choice for anyone who is looking to start the 46 but wants a taste first of the type of terrain and elevation gain to expect on the longer treks. This trail gets steep in a short window of time - but you are rewarded with some of the most phenomenal views the region has to offer. I decided to tackle both Noonmark and Round via a loop, but you can very easily just do one or the other if you so choose.

The hike: 6.7 miles (10.78 km) 2,300 ft. (701m) to Noonmark, lose elevation and gain nearly ~1,000 ft. (304m) to ascend Round.

The route: Park at AMR, turn left down Noonmark Trail Way (it is not the usual trail register for the high peaks and Indian Head.) Continue on Old Dix Trail; slight right onto Stimson trail to start the ascent to Noonmark. Reach summit and continue the loop descending the Felix Adler trail. At junction, turn left back onto Old Dix Trail, then turn right on the Weston Traiil to climb Round. Once at summit, follow signs to continue the loop to descend Round. You will sign out at the Round Mountain trail register (closer to the parking lot, which you passed on the way to Noonmark Trail Way earlier.)

Tip: When you sign in at the Noonmark register, make a note that you will log out at Round, so it is known that you are not returning and signing out at the same place you started.

My route starts from the AMR lot, but you can also hike both of these from the Dix Trail on route 73 (very small parking lot at Round Pond and not on AMR property.)

Parking: Between May 1 - October 31, you will need to reserve a parking spot (no fee), as this trailhead starts on private land owned by the Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR.) You can read more about it here in another post I wrote. From November 1 - April 30, no reservation is required and you are free to park and enter as you please (but dogs are still not permitted - this is monitored closely.)

What you can pair this hike with: A trip to the namesake Noonmark diner afterwards! Just be sure to check operating hours ahead of time.