Giant Mountain via the Ridge Trail in the Adirondacks

• Trailhead: Giant Mountain/Ridge Trail Trailhead on Route 73 near Keene Valley, NY
• Route: Ridge Trail to Giant’s Washbowl, then continue on the Ridge Trail to Giant Mountain summit and return the same way
• Distance: About 6 miles round-trip
• Elevation Gain: About 3,000 feet
• Summit Elevation: 4,627 feet
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Best For: Experienced hikers looking for a challenging Adirondack High Peak with outstanding views

Starting from Route 73The hike begins at the Ridge Trail trailhead on Route 73, near Chapel Pond. Parking can be limited along this busy Adirondack corridor, so arriving early is a good idea, especially on weekends and during peak foliage season.

From the trailhead, the Ridge Trail starts climbing almost immediately. There is very little warm-up on Giant Mountain. The route works steadily upward through forest, over roots, rocks, and boulders, gaining elevation at a pace that quickly reminds you this is an Adirondack High Peak.

The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, but the terrain is rugged. Even early in the hike, you will want sturdy footwear and enough water for a long, demanding day.
Giant’s WashbowlAbout 0.7 miles from the trailhead, passes by the edge of Giant’s Washbowl. This small mountain pond is a scenic early stop and a nice place to catch your breath before the steeper climbing ahead.

The Washbowl gives the hike a little variety, but it is only the beginning. After returning to the Ridge Trail, the route continues upward through the forest, gradually becoming steeper and more rugged.

At roughly 1 mile, another side trail leads toward Giant’s Nubble. This optional viewpoint adds mileage, but hikers with time and energy will find excellent views of Giant’s slides and the surrounding Adirondack landscape.
Climbing the Ridge TrailThe Ridge Trail is known for its sustained climb. The trail rises through dense forest before breaking out onto open rock, where the hike becomes more exposed and dramatically scenic.

The open slabs are one of the best parts of the route. They offer broad views toward the Great Range, the Ausable Valley, and the surrounding High Peaks. They also require extra care, especially when wet, icy, or snow-covered.

There are several steep sections and short scrambles along the way. None require technical climbing equipment in normal conditions, but hikers should be comfortable using their hands for balance and moving carefully over uneven rock.
The Final Push to Giant MountainAs the trail nears the summit, the terrain continues to alternate between forest and open rock. The final climb is still strenuous, but the views become bigger with every step.

Giant Mountain’s summit is broad, rocky, and open, with one of the best panoramas in the Adirondacks. On a clear day, you can look across the High Peaks, see the Great Range, and enjoy long views toward Vermont and the Green Mountains.

At 4,627 feet, Giant is one of New York’s highest mountains and a necessary peak for anyone working toward the Adirondack 46er list. The summit is a fantastic place to rest, eat, and enjoy the reward before beginning the long descent.
Returning to Route 73Return by the same Ridge Trail. While the descent follows the familiar route, it can be harder on tired legs than the ascent. The steep slabs, loose rock, and uneven footing require attention all the way back to the trailhead.

Take your time on the way down, particularly if the trail is wet or if you are hiking in shoulder-season conditions. Trekking poles can be especially helpful on the steeper lower sections.
Why Giant Mountain Is Worth ItGiant Mountain is a demanding hike, but it delivers some of the biggest views for the mileage in the Adirondacks. The Ridge Trail wastes no time gaining elevation, and the combination of forest, open rock, mountain ponds, and huge summit views makes the experience feel varied from start to finish.

This is not a beginner hike, but it is an excellent choice for hikers ready to take on a steep Adirondack High Peak. If you want a route with big elevation gain, rugged terrain, and a summit that feels truly earned, Giant Mountain belongs high on the list.

Important Hiking Considerations: