Ask any Adirondack hiker where to start the 46er journey, and they'll probably say Cascade Mountain. At 4,098 feet, it's not the highest of the Adirondack High Peaks, but it might be the most beloved—and for good reason.
Cascade offers everything that makes High Peaks hiking special: a challenging but manageable climb, open rock summit with 360-degree views, and that unmistakable Adirondack wilderness feeling. The trail is well-maintained, the parking is accessible, and the views from the top are genuinely world-class. If Marcy is the king of the High Peaks, Cascade is the friendly ambassador welcoming everyone to the realm.
It's also popular—extremely popular. But don't let that deter you. Cascade earned its popularity honestly, and sharing the summit with other hikers is part of the experience.
Trail Overview
- Distance: 4.8 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,940 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time: 3-5 hours
Route Description
The trail starts from Route 73 between Lake Placid and Keene, climbing steadily through mixed hardwood forest before steepening as it approaches the summit. The final push involves some scrambling over open rock ledges with increasingly dramatic views.
What to Expect
- First mile: Moderate climb through pleasant forest
- Mile 1-2: Trail steepens, roots and rocks increase
- Final section: Open rock with scrambling; cairns mark the route
- Summit: Bald rock dome with expansive views
Getting There
Trailhead Location
The Cascade Mountain trailhead is on Route 73, about 6 miles south of Lake Placid. GPS: 44.2188° N, 73.8867° W
Parking Situation
This is the catch with Cascade. The parking lot is small (~30 cars), and it fills up early—often by 7 AM on summer weekends. Options:
- Arrive very early (before 7 AM on weekends)
- Go on weekdays
- Use the shuttle from Lake Placid (seasonal)
- Wait for a spot—turnover is decent as early hikers return
Important: Do not park illegally on Route 73. Enforcement is strict and towing common.
The Summit Experience
Views
Cascade's bald summit offers 360-degree panoramic views:
- Northwest: Whiteface Mountain and Lake Placid
- Southwest: The Great Range and Mount Marcy
- Southeast: Cascade's neighbor Porter Mountain
- East: Giant Mountain and the Dix Range
On clear days, the view extends to Vermont's Green Mountains and even the distant Presidential Range in New Hampshire.
Summit Etiquette
Cascade's summit is popular, so practice good etiquette:
- Don't hog the best spots—take your photos and make room
- Keep voices reasonable
- Pack out all trash
- Stay on rock surfaces to protect fragile vegetation
Combining with Porter Mountain
The Cascade-Porter Combo
Many hikers bag both Cascade and Porter in one trip. Porter Mountain (4,059 feet) is connected to Cascade by a 0.7-mile spur trail from near the summit.
- Added Distance: ~1.4 miles
- Added Elevation: ~400 feet (some down, some up)
- Added Time: 1-1.5 hours
Is It Worth It?
If you're working on the 46 or just want more hiking, yes. Porter's summit is more wooded with limited views from the true high point, but a viewpoint just below offers nice vistas. The trail between the peaks is pleasant.
If Cascade alone is plenty of challenge for you, that's completely fine—it's a satisfying hike on its own.
When to Hike
Best Seasons
- Summer: Most popular; arrive early to secure parking
- Fall: Spectacular foliage; slightly smaller crowds
- Winter: Beautiful but requires traction (microspikes/crampons) and warm layers
- Spring: Muddy; consider other trails during mud season
Time of Day
Early morning offers:
- Available parking
- Smaller crowds on trail and summit
- Cooler temperatures
- Better chance of clear views (haze builds through the day)
Sunset hikes are also popular—just bring a headlamp for the descent.
Tips for Success
- Start early: Beat the parking crunch and crowds
- Bring layers: Summit is often 10-20 degrees cooler and windier
- Wear sturdy footwear: The trail is rocky and rooty
- Carry water: 2 liters is sufficient for most hikers
- Have a backup plan: If parking is full, consider nearby alternatives like Mount Jo or Pitchoff Mountain
Quick Reference: Cascade Mountain
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 4.8 miles round trip |
| Elevation Gain | 1,940 feet |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Time | 3-5 hours |
| With Porter | Add 1.4 mi, 400' gain |
Cascade Mountain delivers on its reputation as the perfect introduction to the Adirondack High Peaks. The trail is challenging enough to feel like an accomplishment, the summit views are genuinely spectacular, and the experience captures what makes this mountain range special. Whether it's your first High Peak or your forty-sixth, Cascade never disappoints.
