10 Best Hiking Trails in Old Forge, NY: A Hiker’s Guide

Planning a hiking trip to Old Forge, NY? You’re in for a treat! Known as the “Adirondack Basecamp,” Old Forge is the perfect starting point for exploring the vast Adirondack Park. But before you head out, you should know that there are incredible hiking trails in Old Forge that are destinations in themselves. From family-friendly strolls with stunning lake views to challenging summits, this area offers an adventure for every skill level.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful walk in the woods, the hiking trails in Old Forge provide a unique way to experience the beauty of the Adirondacks. We’ve compiled a list of the 10 best trails in the area, ranking them from easiest to most difficult to help you find the perfect hike. Get ready to discover your new favorite trail!

Find the Best Hiking Trails in Old Forge on Our Map

To help you plan your adventure, we’ve created a custom interactive map with all 10 of these trails. Red locators mark summit hikes, while blue ones indicate water-based trails. From there, you can explore the 10 best hiking trails in Old Forge, ranked from easiest to most difficult.

1. Cathedral Pines

The Cathedral Pines trail is a short, family-friendly hike that leads to a beautiful viewpoint of Seventh Lake.

You’ll find parking for Cathedral Pines conveniently located on the shoulder of Route 28. It’s an easy stop to stretch your legs before or after a drive

A short little jaunt in the woods to a viewpoint of seventh lake. With very little elevation gain and distance, this hike is a perfect stop to stretch little legs!

This trail is home to some beautiful, impressive-sized pine trees. It also houses a monument dedicated to 2LT. Malcolm Blue. 

How Long Will it Take me to Hike the Cathedral Pines Trail?

• Experienced Hiker: This trail is pretty simple… you’ll be back to your car in less than 30 minutes.
• Family with Young Children: This is a great trail for the family to explore! To simply head out and back shouldn’t take you longer than 45 minutes.

2. Gull Lake Trail

Gull Lake Trail is a short, scenic, and easy walk that leads to a beautiful view of its namesake lake, making it perfect for beginners and families with young children.

Parking is located just off Route 28 on Old Route 28. The parking area is an old dirt lot.

A great trail for all skill levels! This hike gains a mere 100 feet of elevation over the course of its mile-long trek to the lake. A short, but scenic walk will bring you to a beautiful view of Gull Lake.

As one of the shorter hikes in Old Forge that leads to a lean-to, this would also make a great beginner overnight hike. Bonus that it’s rarely very busy.

How Long Will it Take me to Hike the Gull Lake Trail?

• Experienced Hiker: This trail is pretty simple… you’ll be back to your car in about 45 minutes to an hour depending on how long you take in the views for.
• Family with Young Children: This is another great trail for the family! Since it doesn’t gain too much elevation, it’s an easy 2 miles round trip for the kiddos. I would say you could be back at your vehicle in an hour and a half or less.

3. Rocky Mountain

Rocky Mountain is a short but steep 1-mile round-trip hike that rewards hikers with spectacular views of Fourth Lake and the surrounding Fulton Chain of Lakes.

You can find parking for Rocky Mountain right off of Route 28 between Eagle Bay and Inlet. This lot provides parking for both the Rocky and Black Bear trailheads.

Rocky Mountain is a great first summit for a family! (and one of my personal favorite hikes in Old Forge). At only 1-mile round trip this is a very doable trail for most.

A short, .5-mile ascent, means you’re gaining over 400 feet of elevation in a short amount of time. Luckily, this elevation gain is steady and never too steep or technical. The summit provides gorgeous views of 4th lake and the winding road below. It is beautiful any time of year making it one of the most popular hiking trails in Old Forge.

How Long Will it Take me to Hike Rocky Mountain?

• Experienced Hiker: You will find yourself at the summit in 20 minutes or less!
• Family with Young Children: This is a great mountain for families! The one-mile ascent does gain a bit of elevation, but isn’t ever overly steep and is the perfect challenge for the kids. With young, inexperienced children it would likely take you 30 – 45 minutes to reach the summit.

4. Moss Lake Loop

The Moss Lake Loop is a gentle loop trail that winds around the tranquil Moss Lake, offering a pleasant and easy hike suitable for the whole family.

You can find parking for Moss Lake off of Big Moose Road. There are several turn offs. One lot is for accessibility parking only, so make sure you choose the correct one.

This pleasant hike around Moss Lake is a wonderful way to get outside for the whole family. It is definitely one of the best loop hikes in Old Forge. This trail is truly suitable for all skill levels.

There are a number of primitive camping sites along the backside of this trail as well a picnicking area. The campsites are marked on the board at the start of the trail – it’s a convenient way to see if the site you’re looking to backpack into it available or not.

How Long Will it Take me to Hike the Moss Lake Loop?

• Experienced Hiker: The Moss Lake Loop will be a walk in the park for an experienced hiker. It took me about an hour to hike the full loop.
• Family with Young Children: This is an awesome trail for families for a few reasons. There are some ups and downs, but nothing major. It’s a great opportunity to have your little ones hiking a longer, but simpler distance. Additionally, there are benches and picnic tables throughout the hike for when you need a rest. This hike would realistically take your family an hour and a half to two hours depending on how much rest you take along the way!

5. Bald Mountain

This popular trail offers a relatively short but rewarding climb to a summit with a historic fire tower and panoramic views of the Fulton Chain of Lakes.

One of the most popular hikes in Old Forge, and for good reason! Bald Mountain is home to Rondaxe fire tower and sees as many as 15,000 visitors a year. It is a beautiful, fairly easy hike to a summit boasting beautiful views of first and second lake.

The trail has one steep section (microspikes & snowshoes are necessary for winter) and will have you traversing some bare rock. Although it is an easier trail, I wouldn’t recommend this trail for families with very young, hiking children; the bare rock sections make me nervous with little ones. 

Due to its popularity, you’re likely to find trash on the summit of Bald Mountain. Do your part! Pack your trash out with you (this includes toilet paper) and if at all possible, pack out the trash others have left behind. Leave it better than you found it!

How Long Will it Take me to Hike Bald Mountain?

• Experienced Hiker: If you’re an experienced hiker that moves at a decent pace, it shouldn’t take you more than 20 minutes to reach the summit.
• Family with Young Children: Although Bald isn’t technical, it does have a few steeper sections and some questionable rocky footing. To reach the summit of Bald Mountain, it may take a family with young children 40-45 minutes.

6. Black Bear Mountain

Black Bear Mountain is a rewarding hike that offers two trail options—a shorter, steeper route and a longer, more gradual loop—both leading to a spacious summit with stunning views of the Fulton Chain of Lakes.

This gorgeous trail can make for an awesome day in the mountains! Hit it as a loop (blue and yellow trail markers) for 4.7 miles or an out and back (blue trail only) if you’re looking for a shorter distance.

The trail is steady and provides options for hikers of different skill and endurance levels. The blue trail to the summit is slightly shorter and steeper than the yellow trail. There is a fun little rock scramble just before the summit on the blue trail as well.

The summit is spacious, providing room for all parties. It’s also an awesome space to explore! There are some absolutely gorgeous views from the summit of Black Bear. If at all possible, get up there for sunrise on the northeast side of the mountain and you will not be disappointed. 

How Long Will it Take me to Hike Black Bear Mountain?

• Experienced Hiker: If you’re an experienced hiker that moves at a decent pace, it may take you between 60 and 75 minutes to reach the summit. If you’re incredibly speedy you can make it to the summit in a little over 45 minutes if you’re hauling.
• Family with Young Children: Black Bear isn’t technical and consists of a mostly steady uphill. The blue trail does have a steep section that includes rock scrambles, whereas the yellow trail is less steep and a tad longer. I would suggest a family with small children allot for 1. 5 to 2 hours to reach the summit.

7. Nicks Lake Loop

The Nicks Lake Loop is a beautiful and relatively flat trail that winds through the Black River Wild Forest, offering scenic views of Nicks Lake and a chance to spot wildlife.

Park for the Nicks Lake Loop in Nicks Lake Campground or at the trailhead on Bisby road.

A beautiful hike, bike, or ski through the Black River Wild Forest and around Nicks Lake. Although on the somewhat longer side, this hike features easy terrain and really cool features such as bridges and beaches. The hike will lead you to the beach at Nick’s Lake Campground; trail markers can get a little spotty around this point but you should be able to find the trail again! If not, walking, riding, or skiing the road for the final 1.5 miles is always an option.

Camping at Nicks Lake is the perfect way to spend a summer or fall weekend in the woods! Campsites provide great access to this trail and many others.

How Long Will it Take me to Hike the Nicks Lake Loop?

• Experienced Hiker: This trail isn’t difficult, however, it is on the longer side of things. This hike will likely take you around 3 hours to complete.
• Family with Young Children: Although the Nicks Lake Loop isn’t technical or steep it is long. I would only suggest this trail for a family with young children who are used to hiking. With young children who are conditioned hikers, needing minimal rest, this trail would take you between 4 and 4.6 hours to complete.
  

8. Cascade Falls

The Cascade Falls trail is a scenic loop around Cascade Lake that leads to a modest waterfall, making for a pleasant hike, though the falls can be more of a trickle in dry seasons.

The parking area of Cascade Lake and Cascade Falls is located on Big Moose Road about a mile from the intersections with Route 28.

This is a long loop around Cascade Lake that provides a short spur trail to the base of Cascade Falls. Complete the loop counter clockwise to hit the elevation gain first! This part of the route is pretty and forested. The return from the falls is more open, wet, and alongside the lake.

The waterfall in late summer, especially after a dry summer, isn’t much more than a trickle. Keep this in mind before making the nearly 6-mile round-trip trek out to see the waterfall. It’s exceptional in winter, though!

How Long Will it Take me to Hike Woodhull Mountain?

• Experienced Hiker: 2.5 to 3 hours including some time to hang by the waterfall.
• Family with Young Children: I would plan to be out for a majority of the day if your young hikers are unexperienced. The terrain isn’t difficult, but the overall length of the trail could be trying for little legs!

9. Remsen Falls

The Remsen Falls trail is a relatively flat, multi-use path that follows an old railroad bed, leading to a series of scenic rapids and a popular lean-to campsite along the Moose River.

Parking for Remsen falls is located at the end if McKeever Rd Spur. This trail leads to a bit of rapids along the Moose River

This is a moderately trafficked 6.9-mile trail about 15 miles south of Old Forge. This trail is mostly an old railroad turned gravel road and is best used from April through September; if you do hike this trail during hunting season, it’s essential you wear bright colors. This is state land and great hunting grounds.

A popular way to reach this trail is to hike or bike on the old railroad gravel road located to the left at the McKeever Parking Area. You can also drive your vehicle along Wolf Lake Landing Road, which is to the right of the large McKeever parking area. Drive this road up to the next parking area. This will cut a lot of walking from your hike. From this point, take the blue marked Remsen Falls Trail to your destination and enjoy!

How Long Will it Take me to Hike to Remsen Falls?

• Experienced Hiker: This depends largely on where you’re starting your hike. If you’ll be hiking the full 6.9 miles, this will likely take you three and a half hours round trip.
• Family with Young Children: I wouldn’t suggest this trail for families with young children unless you park at the second parking area and/or bike to the falls. It’s important to note that although the terrain isn’t technical, I would only bring children who are quite comfortable on a bicycle if that’s how you decide to tackle the mileage!

10. Woodhull Mountain

The Woodhull Mountain trail is a long hike that is best known for its tedious approach on an old railroad bed, making it a popular route for a bike-and-hike adventure to a fire tower summit.

The Woodhull Mountain Trail begins at the McKeever Road trailhead. This is one of the longest hikes in Old Forge, making it a less popular hike in the area; luckily, that often means some solitude.

Due to its length, a popular way to reach the summit is to bike on the old railroad gravel road located on the left at the large McKeever Parking Area. After about 5 miles of biking, you’ll come to a point where biking is no longer feasible. At that point, you can lock up your mountain bike before hiking the rest of the mountain. 

Similar to The Remsen Falls trail, you can also drive your vehicle along the Wolf Lake Landing Road on the right of the large McKeever parking area. This road leads up to another parking area. Starting here cuts a lot of mileage off your hike, however, it’s still at least a 9+ mile round trip hike. From this parking area, riding your bike is still an option until you reach the area where the trail becomes thin and hiking is best. 

How Long Will it Take me to Hike Woodhull Mountain?

• Experienced Hiker: It’s hard to tell! It largely depends on where you park and how you approach the trail. We parked at the first parking lot and rode our bikes for the first 5 miles. Even on two wheels, this hike took us a few hours to complete.
• Family with Young Children: I would not suggest this hike for families with young children. Unless, of course, you have intense kiddos who love to mountain bike & hike.

Frequently Asked Questions About Old Forge Hiking Trails

1. What are some popular hiking trails in Old Forge?

The most popular hiking trails in Old Forge include Bald Mountain, Rocky Mountain, Black Bear Mountain, and the McCauley Mountain Trail (not mentioned).

2. Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Old Forge?

Yes, there are several easy hiking trails in Old Forge, such as the Moss Lake Trail and Sis & Bubb Lakes Trail (not mentioned). These trails offer manageable distances and moderate elevation gains.

3. Are dogs allowed on hiking trails in Old Forge?

Generally, dogs are allowed on hiking trails in Old Forge but must be kept on a leash. It’s always a good idea to check specific trail regulations beforehand.

4. Are there any guided hiking tours available in Old Forge?

Yes, there are often guided hiking tours available in Old Forge, particularly during the peak tourist seasons. Local outdoor outfitters and tour companies may offer guided hikes for various skill levels.

5. What should I bring with me for hiking in Old Forge?

Essentials for hiking in Old Forge include sturdy hiking boots, 2L of water, snacks, a map or GPS device, insect repellent, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing layers. It’s also advisable to carry a first aid kit and a fully charged cellphone.

6. Are hiking trails in Old Forge accessible year-round?

Many hiking trails in Old Forge are accessible year-round. Knowing what to wear and carry in mud season and winter’s snow and ice is imperative to your safety.

Always check trail conditions before heading out, especially in the colder months.

7. Are there any waterfall hikes near Old Forge?

Yes, there are few waterfall hikes near Old Forge. The Cascade Lake Trail and the Remsen Falls trail both offer scenic views of waterfalls.

8. Are there any hiking trails suitable for families with young children in Old Forge?

Yes, it depends on what you’re looking for. Bald Mountain Trail is a popular choice for families with young children due to its relatively easy terrain and rewarding views at the summit. If your kiddos are very beginner, hiking Moss Lake or Cathedral Pines might provide a better experience.

9. Do I need a permit to hike in Old Forge?

Most hiking trails in Old Forge do not require permits for day hiking. However, permits may be necessary for overnight camping or for certain designated wilderness areas. Check with local authorities or park offices for specific requirements.

10. What are the best times of year to hike in Old Forge?

The best times to hike in Old Forge are typically during the late spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is mild and trails are clear of snow. However, each season offers its own unique beauty, so hiking can be enjoyable year-round with proper preparation.

Conclusion

Ready to hit the trails? Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a family with young kids, the hiking trails in Old Forge offer something for everyone. If you found this guide helpful, be sure to check out our other posts on planning your Adirondack adventure, including the Best Things to Do in Old Forge Besides Hiking and an Adirondack Road Trip Route that will make you want to extend your trip!