Algonquin Peak is arguably the most rewarding hike in the Adirondacks. At 5,114 feet, it's second only to Mount Marcy in elevation, but many hikers prefer it—the summit views are spectacular, the approach is more direct, and you're surrounded by the dramatic MacIntyre Range rather than looking at it from a distance.
The standard route from Adirondak Loj climbs 8 miles round trip with nearly 3,000 feet of elevation gain. It's challenging but achievable for fit hikers, and the payoff—standing on that exposed alpine summit with the High Peaks arrayed around you—is worth every step.
Trail Overview
Van Hoevenberg Trail to Algonquin
- Distance: 8.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,936 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Time: 6-8 hours
The trail starts at the Adirondak Loj on Heart Lake, following the Van Hoevenberg Trail toward Marcy before branching off toward MacIntyre Falls and Algonquin. The climb is relentless but well-graded, with the final mile above treeline.
With Wright Peak
Many hikers add Wright Peak (4,580 feet), which branches off the Algonquin trail about halfway up. This adds approximately 0.8 miles and 300 feet of elevation, bagging two High Peaks in one trip.
The Climb
Lower Section: Loj to Wright/Algonquin Junction
The first 2+ miles follow the well-traveled Van Hoevenberg Trail, crossing Marcy Brook and climbing moderately through mixed forest. At the trail junction, bear left toward Wright and Algonquin (right continues to Marcy).
Middle Section: To Wright Spur
The trail steepens as you climb toward the Wright Peak junction. Many hikers tag Wright first, then return to continue up Algonquin. The forest becomes increasingly alpine, with stunted spruce and fir.
Upper Section: Above Treeline
The final mile to Algonquin is spectacular—open alpine terrain with views expanding with every step. Cairns mark the route across exposed rock. In clear weather, you can see most of the major High Peaks from the trail.
The Summit
Algonquin's summit is a broad, rocky expanse with 360-degree views. Mount Colden rises dramatically across Avalanche Pass. Marcy looms to the east. The Great Range extends southeast. And on clear days, Lake Champlain and Vermont are visible to the east.
Practical Information
Trailhead
Adirondak Loj, off Route 73 south of Lake Placid. Day use fee: $15/vehicle (2026).
Parking
The Loj parking lot fills early on summer weekends—often by 6:30 AM. Arrive early or use the South Meadows overflow lot with shuttle.
When to Hike
- June-October: Best conditions
- July-August: Warmest but can be crowded
- September: Fall colors, fewer people
- Winter: Serious mountaineering requiring full winter gear
Conditions
- The summit is exposed—weather can change rapidly
- Thunderstorms are dangerous above treeline
- Snow/ice can linger into June and return in October
Combining Peaks
Wright Peak
The most common addition. The spur trail to Wright branches off the main trail and adds about an hour round trip.
Iroquois Peak
From Algonquin's summit, a rugged trail continues to Iroquois Peak (4,840 feet). This adds 1.5 miles round trip and requires descending and re-ascending—it's a significant addition to an already long day.
The MacIntyre Traverse
Strong hikers can traverse the entire MacIntyre Range: Wright, Algonquin, Iroquois, and Marshall. This is a very long day (13+ miles) requiring early start and good conditions.
Quick Reference: Algonquin Peak
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 5,114 feet |
| Distance | 8.0 miles round trip |
| Elevation Gain | 2,936 feet |
| Difficulty | Strenuous |
| With Wright | Add 0.8 mi, 300' gain |
Algonquin Peak delivers everything you want from a High Peaks experience: a challenging climb, spectacular alpine scenery, and summit views that rival any in the Northeast. Many experienced Adirondack hikers consider it their favorite—and one trip to that exposed summit explains why.
