Whiteface Mountain stands apart—literally. While most Adirondack High Peaks cluster together in the heart of the wilderness, Whiteface rises alone 15 miles to the north, its distinctive profile visible from Lake Placid and beyond. At 4,867 feet, it's the fifth-highest peak in New York and one of only two High Peaks accessible by road.
That road—the Veterans Memorial Highway—brings tourists to near the summit, but hikers can earn the views the traditional way. Multiple trails climb Whiteface from different directions, offering everything from a moderate approach to a challenging all-day adventure.
Trail Options
Wilmington Trail (Most Popular)
- Distance: 8.6 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 3,600 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Time: 6-8 hours
The standard hiking route starts from the Atmospheric Sciences Research Center off Route 86. The trail climbs steadily, steeply in places, through forest before emerging onto open rock for the final approach. Views expand as you gain elevation.
Connery Pond to Whiteface Landing
- Distance: 10+ miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 3,000 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Time: 7-9 hours
A less-traveled approach from the south via Connery Pond and Whiteface Landing on Lake Placid. Longer but with more variety, including waterfront scenery.
Esther Mountain Combo
- Distance: 11+ miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 4,200 feet
Bag two peaks by adding Esther Mountain (4,240'), accessible via a spur trail from the Wilmington Trail. Esther is a trailless peak that was officially added to the 46ers list. The herd path is now well-established.
The Hiking Experience
Lower Trail
From the Wilmington trailhead, the first few miles climb steadily through classic Adirondack forest—mixed hardwoods giving way to spruce and fir. The trail is well-marked but rugged, with rocks and roots throughout.
Upper Mountain
Above 4,000 feet, the trees shrink and views begin opening. The final approach crosses alpine terrain with excellent views in all directions. You'll see Lake Placid, the High Peaks to the south, Lake Champlain to the east, and on clear days, Montreal to the north.
The Summit
Whiteface's summit is developed—there's a castle-like stone building (now a weather station), an observation deck, and in summer, tourists who drove up. Don't let this diminish your accomplishment; you earned it, they didn't. The 360-degree views are spectacular regardless of how you arrived.
The Veterans Memorial Highway
If hiking isn't possible, the Veterans Memorial Highway provides road access to within 300 vertical feet of the summit. From there, an elevator or a short trail leads to the top.
- Toll: $17/car, $11/motorcycle (2026)
- Season: Typically late May through mid-October
- Hours: 9 AM - 4 PM, weather permitting
The road itself is an engineering marvel, climbing 2,300 feet in 5 miles with hairpin turns and stunning views. Even if you hike, consider driving up another day for the experience.
Practical Information
Getting There
Wilmington Trailhead: From Lake Placid, take Route 86 east toward Wilmington. Turn left onto Whiteface Memorial Highway, then quickly left onto Atmospheric Sciences Road. Trailhead parking is at the end.
When to Hike
- June-October: Best hiking conditions
- July-August: Warmest weather, more summit crowds
- September: Fall colors, crisp air
- Winter: Popular ski mountain; hiking requires full winter gear
What to Know
- The summit is developed but that doesn't affect trail conditions
- Weather can differ dramatically from Lake Placid
- Cell service is generally available on the summit
- Ski area operations don't affect hiking trails
Olympic History
Whiteface hosted alpine skiing events for both the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics. The ski area remains one of the premier mountains in the East, and the Olympic legacy adds historical significance to the peak.
The summit castle was built in 1935 as part of the Veterans Memorial Highway project—hence the name. It's now staffed by atmospheric researchers who monitor weather and climate data.
Quick Reference: Whiteface Mountain
| Route | Distance | Gain | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wilmington Trail | 8.6 mi | 3,600' | Strenuous |
| With Esther | 11+ mi | 4,200' | Very Strenuous |
| Veterans Hwy | Drive | — | Easy |
Whiteface offers a unique High Peaks experience—challenging hiking to a developed summit with Olympic history and exceptional views. The summit road means sharing the top with tourists, but the trail up ensures you've earned your place there. It's a worthy climb on any Adirondack itinerary.
