The Dix Range traverse is the Adirondack peak-bagger's dream: five High Peaks—Macomb, South Dix, Grace, Hough, and Dix—connected by a spectacular ridgeline that can be completed in a single ambitious day. It's challenging, with 17+ miles and over 6,000 feet of elevation gain, but for strong hikers, it's the most efficient way to knock out five summits from the 46.
Beyond the numbers, the Dix Range offers some of the finest hiking in the Adirondacks. The views from Dix's open summit are legendary, and the ridge traverse provides above-treeline hiking matched only by the Great Range.
The Route
Full Traverse Stats
- Distance: 17-18 miles (depending on route)
- Elevation Gain: 6,000-6,500 feet
- Difficulty: Very Strenuous
- Time: 12-16 hours
Standard Route (Elk Lake)
Most hikers start from Elk Lake, tackling the peaks in order:
- Macomb (4,405 ft): The first peak, with a slide approach that's steep but scenic
- South Dix (4,060 ft): Short traverse from Macomb
- Grace (4,012 ft): Continuing the ridge southward
- Hough (4,400 ft): Significant elevation regain to this peak
- Dix (4,857 ft): The crown of the range, highest and most spectacular
Return via the Beckhorn Trail or continue to Route 73 with a car shuttle.
Peak by Peak
Macomb Mountain (4,405 ft)
The approach via the Macomb Slide provides early views and introduces the range's character. The slide is steep with loose rock—take care. Most hikers find Macomb surprisingly challenging for a first peak.
South Dix (4,060 ft)
A forested summit with limited views, but an easy add from Macomb. The trail connecting them is rugged but manageable.
Grace Peak (4,012 ft)
The most remote of the five, Grace requires bushwhacking from the main trail. It's a "trail-less peak"—no maintained path to the summit. Navigation skills required.
Hough Peak (4,400 ft)
Named for a former state surveyor, Hough offers better views than South Dix or Grace. The climb from the col is a significant effort.
Dix Mountain (4,857 ft)
The finale: Dix's open summit provides some of the best views in the Adirondacks. On a clear day, you can see the Great Range, Mount Marcy, and seemingly half of the 46. It's worth lingering.
Planning Considerations
Fitness Requirements
The Dix Range traverse is serious. You should be comfortable with:
- Full-day mountain hikes of 12+ hours
- Sustained elevation gain (6,000+ feet)
- Rough, unmaintained terrain
- Basic bushwhacking (for Grace Peak)
When to Go
- June-September: Best conditions; longest days
- Fall: Shorter days but stunning foliage
- Winter: Full winter mountaineering expedition
Overnight Option
Breaking the traverse into two days is sensible for many hikers. Camp in the col between peaks (follow regulations) or use the Elk Lake Lodge for a base.
Logistics
Trailhead Access
Elk Lake: Private property; day-use fee required. The road to Elk Lake is rough—high clearance helpful.
Car Shuttle: Arrange transportation to Route 73 (Round Pond trailhead) if you want to hike one-way.
What to Bring
- 3+ liters of water (more in summer)
- Headlamp with extra batteries (you may be out after dark)
- Map and compass (trail-less terrain requires navigation)
- Emergency bivy gear (just in case)
- Plenty of food—you'll burn thousands of calories
The Trail-less Peak Challenge
Grace Peak is one of the Adirondack trail-less High Peaks—meaning there's no official trail to the summit. You'll need to:
- Navigate via map and compass (GPS helpful but not sufficient)
- Follow herd paths where they exist
- Bushwhack through thick vegetation in places
- Sign the canister at the summit to document your ascent
If you're not comfortable with off-trail navigation, consider doing the range without Grace, returning for it on a dedicated trip.
Quick Reference
| Peak | Elevation | Trail? |
|---|---|---|
| Macomb | 4,405 ft | Yes (slide) |
| South Dix | 4,060 ft | Yes |
| Grace | 4,012 ft | No (trail-less) |
| Hough | 4,400 ft | Yes |
| Dix | 4,857 ft | Yes |
The Dix Range traverse is one of the Adirondacks' great adventures—five High Peaks, spectacular ridgeline hiking, and the satisfaction of a genuinely challenging day in the mountains. It's not for everyone, but for those ready to push their limits, it's an unforgettable experience that makes serious progress on the 46er list.
