Tranquil Winter Hiking in the Adirondacks

Posted in General, Things to Do, Winter at Garnet Hill

Our four-season Adirondack resort is located in a region that’s home to some of the best winter hikes in Upstate New York. At Garnet Hill Lodge, we enjoy getting out there no matter what the season, and find winter hiking in the Adirondacks to be a peaceful, challenging, and ultimately rewarding experience. Several multi-mile hiking trails can be accessed from Garnet Hill Lodge’s backyard, including the spectacular Balm of Gilead. After a memorable day exploring the Adirondack wilderness, return to our cozy lodge for a steaming cup of hot cocoa, stories around a crackling fireplace, and eventually peaceful slumber.

What To Wear On Winter Hikes In The Adirondacks

It’s essential to pack the right clothing and gear for winter hiking in the Adirondacks. Weather conditions can be unpredictable and can be completely different in different sections of the trail, so you need to be prepared for anything. Here’s a short list of items to wear/pack for a winter day hike in the Adirondacks:

• Thermal, waterproof underwear
• Two pairs of thick, wool socks
• Tough, waterproof boots
• Snowpants
• Long-sleeve “ColdGear Armour”
• Heavy sweatshirt
• Durable, waterproof winter coat
• Warm stocking hat
• Waterproof winter gloves
• Backpack with an emergency kit
• Dry food
• Bottled water

Winter Hiking Trail Safety

Always remember to plan ahead in case of an emergency. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has a detailed list of safety tips for winter hiking in the Adirondacks safety tips. We highly suggest giving it a thorough read, even if you’re planning just a two-mile hike. If you have any more questions about the area’s terrain and wildlife, simply ask our on-site staff at the Garnet Hill Outdoor Center for pointers before departure.

Best Winter Hiking Trails Near Garnet Hill Lodge

We’ve selected a few easy, moderate, and difficult area hiking trails for prospective guests aiming to go winter hiking in the Adirondacks. Let’s start with a simple one: Clear Pond Trail. Clear Pond is a scenic, 18-mile drive from Garnet Hill Lodge. The trail itself is a mostly-flat, 2.2-mile out-and-back journey to peaceful Clear Pond. Lush forestry and snow-capped mountains entirely enclose the pond.

Arguably our favorite local winter hiking trail is Balm of Gilead. Our guests can pick up this splendid two-mile, out-and-back trail from Garnet Hill Lodge’s front door. While it’s shorter than Clear Pond Trail, it features a steeper incline on the trek to genuinely stunning valley overlooks.

The Puffer Pond Trail via beautiful Kings Flow is a 4.7-mile out-and-back journey that’s is equal parts challenging and breathtaking. You’ll start at Kings Flow and hike on an ungroomed trail in search of peaceful, secluded Puffer Pond.

Adirondack Lodging For Your Winter Hiking Adventures

The perfect place to dry off, warm up, and enjoy a hot meal after a full day of winter hiking in the Adirondacks is Garnet Hill Lodge. The ultra-talented culinary team at our on-site Log House Restaurant serves spectacular elk strip steak, roast duck breast, grilled salmon, and other entrees. Our comfortable rooms are the perfect place to relax and recharge after your day of adventures. And if you’re looking for even more fun beyond hiking, you’ll be excited to learn that overnight stays at Garnet Hill Lodge include access to our cross-country ski and snowshoe trail system. Click here to book Adirondack lodging for your next winter hiking excursion!