Giant Mountain rises 4,627 feet above the Champlain Valley, its massive bulk visible from Route 9 for miles in either direction. The Adirondack natives called it 'Giant of the Valley,' and the name fits—this mountain dominates its surroundings in a way few others do.
But what really sets Giant apart is the summit view. The peak's eastern face drops away dramatically, offering an unobstructed panorama across Lake Champlain to Vermont's Green Mountains and beyond. Many experienced Adirondack hikers consider it one of the finest viewpoints in the entire range.
The climb is substantial—over 3,000 feet of elevation gain—but the rewards match the effort. Giant earns its spot on any serious Adirondack hiking list.
Trail Overview
Roaring Brook Trail (Most Popular)
- Distance: 6.2 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 3,100 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Time: 5-7 hours
The standard route starts from Route 73 at Chapel Pond Pass and climbs relentlessly. The trail begins moderately but steepens significantly in the upper half, with several rocky sections requiring hands-on scrambling.
Ridge Trail from Route 9N
- Distance: 6.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 3,400 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Time: 5-7 hours
A slightly longer approach from the east with more consistent views along the ridge. Less crowded than Roaring Brook but with more total climbing.
Giant-Rocky Peak Ridge Traverse
- Distance: 10+ miles
- Elevation Gain: 4,500+ feet
- Difficulty: Very Strenuous
- Time: 8-10 hours
Connect Giant with Rocky Peak Ridge for one of the best ridge traverses in the Adirondacks. This is a serious undertaking requiring good fitness and a full day. Car shuttle or long road walk required.
The Climb: Roaring Brook Trail
Chapel Pond to Giant Washbowl (1.5 miles)
The trail starts with a moderate climb through mixed forest, crossing Roaring Brook early on. After about 1.5 miles, you'll reach the Giant Washbowl—a beautiful mountain pond cupped in a small cirque. This makes a nice rest stop and turnaround point for those seeking a shorter hike.
Washbowl to Summit (1.6 miles)
Above the Washbowl, the real climbing begins. The trail steepens dramatically, with rock scrambles and exposed sections requiring attention. You'll gain over 2,000 feet in less than 2 miles.
The upper mountain opens up with views west toward the Great Range. The final approach to the summit involves some ledge walking with drop-offs—thrilling but requiring care.
The Summit
Giant's summit is relatively open, with the dramatic eastern cliff providing the signature view. Lake Champlain stretches below, with Vermont's Green Mountains forming the horizon. On clear days, you can see Mount Mansfield, Camel's Hump, and even hints of the White Mountains beyond.
To the west, the heart of the High Peaks spreads out—Marcy, Haystack, the Great Range—offering perspective on the surrounding wilderness.
Practical Information
Getting There
The Roaring Brook trailhead is on Route 73 at Chapel Pond Pass, between Keene and Keene Valley. Look for the parking area on the east side of the road.
Parking
The Chapel Pond parking lot is small and fills early on summer weekends—often by 7 AM. Options:
- Arrive very early
- Use the Chapel Pond overflow lot (adds road walking)
- Hike on weekdays
- Consider the Route 9N trailhead as an alternative
Permit/Registration
No permit required for day hiking, but you must register at the trailhead kiosk.
When to Hike
Best Seasons
- June-October: Prime hiking season
- September: Fall colors begin; excellent hiking weather
- July-August: Warmest weather; bugs early in season
Conditions to Consider
- The upper mountain is exposed—turn back in thunderstorms
- Rock scrambles can be slippery when wet
- Snow and ice linger into May; return early in fall
- Summit temps can be 15-20 degrees colder than the trailhead
Winter
Giant is a popular winter objective but serious. Full traction gear and winter mountaineering skills required. The exposed summit ridge can be dangerous in high winds or whiteout conditions.
Giant Washbowl Alternative
Not ready for the full Giant climb? The hike to Giant Washbowl offers a worthy objective at a fraction of the effort.
- Distance: 3.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time: 2-3 hours
The pond sits in a beautiful mountain setting with cliffs rising above. Swimming is possible though cold. It's a great introduction to Adirondack hiking or a consolation prize if the weather turns on your Giant attempt.
Quick Reference: Giant Mountain
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 6.2 miles round trip |
| Elevation Gain | 3,100 feet |
| Summit Elevation | 4,627 feet |
| Difficulty | Strenuous |
| Time | 5-7 hours |
| Trailhead | Chapel Pond Pass (Route 73) |
Giant Mountain combines a serious physical challenge with one of the best summit rewards in the Adirondacks. That view from the eastern cliffs—Lake Champlain spread below, Vermont's mountains on the horizon—justifies every drop of sweat on the climb. It's no wonder many 46ers rank Giant among their favorites.
