Flume Knob (Wilmington)
Region: Adirondacks, Wilmington Wild Forest
July 9, 2021 | Wilmington, NY
The background: This trail had been on my list for quite some time; fortunately, I finally had a window of opportunity one late summer afternoon to check it out after driving up earlier in the day. I wasn’t staying too far from Wilmington, the rain had tapered off, and I was eager to be out on the trail. It was time to go!
I honestly didn’t know this until recently, but this trail (among other lesser knowns) is part of a hiking challenge called the Wonders of Wilmington. Some other interesting hikes are listed here that I will definitely add to my must-visit list next time I’m in the area.
(You will never run out of trails to explore up here, I promise!!) Flume Knob is also listed as one of the “alternatives” on the ADK 29 list.
Getting there: the trailhead is approximately 15 minutes from Lake Placid on route 86. Head east on route 86 towards Wilmington for 10 miles (passing the High Falls Gorge on your left indicates you are almost there.) As soon as you see the Hungry Trout, drive past it and turn left into the lot immediately after, which is designated for parking. There is no fee to park.
You may have cell service, but as always, do not rely on it.
The hike: 4 miles out-and-back round trip (~2 miles one way to viewing area.) Elevation gain approximately 1,100 feet. Well-marked and maintained; just be sure to follow the signs for the Knob. The first mile or so is mild (and gorgeous) to roam through, while the next mile or so is a bit steeper to take you to the knob. As you’ll see below in my photo, I was socked in clouds without a view when I reached the top viewing area - but it was still a lovely trail to meander through and explore. I will for sure be visiting again soon and spending more time in this network of trails.
An ideal day and what you can pair this hike with:
In my opinion, this is a great hike if you are limited on time and/or want to warm up your legs and still get some time in the woods. I spent the earlier part of the day driving up and then hiked this trail in the late afternoon to get my legs moving before a big day the following morning. That said, if you do have the entire day to hike and are up for it, below are some options to add on.
Bear Den Mountain! (the one in the same trail system that’s part of the Lake Placid 9, not the one in Keene Valley connected to the High Peaks.)
OR any of the Lake Placid 9’ers would be a great choice, as well (Bear Den is just the closest!)
Silver Lake Mountain, just a bit north, is another shorter (but very steep!) hike, a bit off the usual beaten path. Read more here.
Check out the High Falls Gorge. This is on private land and there is a fee, but it’s pretty cool for a quick visit if you want to do something a little more low key (I don’t think dogs are allowed.) Double check hours and times before getting there since they are closed certain times of the year.
Hungry? You could grab a bite at the Hungry Trout next door (check hours ahead of time.)
