Ask Adirondack hikers about their favorite summit, and Haystack comes up again and again. At 4,960 feet, it's the third-highest peak in New York, but it's the summit experience—a narrow rock cone with unobstructed views in every direction—that earns its reputation. Many consider it the finest viewpoint in the entire Northeast.
Haystack isn't easy to reach. All routes are long and involve significant elevation gain. But for those willing to put in the miles, Haystack delivers a mountain experience that stays with you forever.
Trail Options
Via Marcy Dam and Lake Arnold
- Distance: 18.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 4,000 feet
- Difficulty: Very Strenuous
The most common approach follows the Marcy Dam trail past Avalanche Lake, then climbs to Lake Arnold before descending to and climbing Haystack. It's long but well-traveled.
Via Johns Brook Lodge and Basin
- Distance: 16.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 4,200 feet
- Difficulty: Very Strenuous
This route approaches from the Garden trailhead, passing Johns Brook Lodge (a possible overnight stop) before climbing Basin Mountain and traversing to Haystack.
From Upper Works (Calamity Brook)
- Distance: 19.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 4,500 feet
- Difficulty: Very Strenuous
The quietest approach, from the south via Calamity Brook and Mount Marcy. Fewer crowds but even longer distance.
The Summit
Haystack's summit is what makes it special—a narrow rock apex with genuine exposure and views that seem to go forever:
- North: Marcy and Colden dominating the skyline
- South: The Great Range extending to the horizon
- West: The Santanoni Range and wild country beyond
- East: Giant Mountain and the eastern High Peaks
The summit cone requires some scrambling to reach the very top. On clear days, people linger for hours, reluctant to leave what might be the finest viewpoint they'll ever experience.
Combining with Other Peaks
Haystack + Marcy
Many hikers combine Haystack with Mount Marcy, since the trails intersect at Four Corners. This adds mileage but bags the two highest peaks in a single push.
Haystack + Basin
The Johns Brook approach naturally includes Basin Mountain. Adding Little Haystack as well makes for an efficient day of peak-bagging.
Multi-Day Option
Staying at Johns Brook Lodge (reservations required) breaks the distance into manageable chunks and allows for a more relaxed pace. The lodge serves meals and provides bunks—a welcome comfort after a long day.
Planning Considerations
Fitness Requirements
Haystack is one of the most demanding High Peaks to reach:
- Expect 15+ miles regardless of approach
- Plan for 10-14 hours of hiking
- Be comfortable with sustained climbing
- Start early—very early in summer
When to Go
- June-September: Best conditions; longest days
- Fall: Spectacular colors but shorter days require early starts
- Winter: Expert mountaineering conditions only
What to Bring
- 3+ liters of water minimum
- Full lunch plus snacks
- Headlamp (mandatory)
- Extra layers for exposed summit
- Emergency supplies
Practical Information
Trailhead Access
- Adirondack Loj: For Marcy Dam approach; parking fee required
- Garden Trailhead: For Johns Brook approach; parking extremely limited (consider shuttle)
- Upper Works: For southern approach; less crowded
Overnight Options
- Johns Brook Lodge: Full-service backcountry lodge
- Marcy Dam: Lean-tos and tent sites
- Backcountry camping: Follow High Peaks regulations
Quick Reference
| Route | Distance | Gain | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Via Marcy Dam | 18.0 mi | 4,000 ft | Very Strenuous |
| Via Johns Brook | 16.0 mi | 4,200 ft | Very Strenuous |
| Via Upper Works | 19.0 mi | 4,500 ft | Very Strenuous |
Haystack Mountain represents the Adirondack experience at its purest—a long journey through wild country rewarded with a summit that takes your breath away. The effort is significant, but so is the payoff. For serious hikers seeking the best the Adirondacks have to offer, Haystack is the answer.
