Hiking Cliff Mountain - panoramic view  tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in Cliff Mountain: trails, map and practical info

Adirondacks • New York

4.5 Appreciated by 13 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2013Updated 20/05/2026
Difficulty
Hard
Distance
10 km
Elevation
549 ft
Duration
5h30
Max altitude
1,057 ft

Tackle this hard 9.7 km climb in the Adirondacks' Marcy Group with 549 m elevation gain over 5.5 hours. Part of New York's most dramatic peaks, Cliff Mountain rewards hikers with access to the pristine Opalescent River watershed and views across Essex County's high wilderness.

Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore Cliff Mountain? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

Cliff Mountain is a mountain located in Essex County, New York. The mountain is part of the Marcy Group of the Great Range of the Adirondack Mountains. Cliff is flanked to the southeast by Mount Redfield. Cliff Mountain stands within the watershed of the Opalescent River, a tributary of the Hudson River, which in turn drains into New York Bay. The north and west sides of Cliff Mtn. drain directly into the Opalescent River. The southeast side drains into Upper Twin Brook, thence into the Opalescent River. For those embarking on an adventure through this region, starting from the Adirondack Loj Road provides a convenient access point to explore nearby attractions such as Lake Placid and Lake Arnold. Hikers often traverse the Calamity Brook Trail, which offers scenic views and leads towards Marcy Dam, a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The area surrounding Cliff Mountain is rich with natural beauty, including Lake Colden and its serene waters. Visitors can also explore the Package Range, which offers diverse hiking experiences suitable for various skill levels. The range is valid for exploration throughout most of the year, with some trails being particularly inviting during valid Feb months when snow transforms the landscape. Accommodations are available at nearby lodges like Adk Lodge, providing a comfortable base for adventurers eager to explore this stunning wilderness area. Whether you're drawn by the allure of high peaks or tranquil lakes, this region promises unforgettable experiences.

Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Cliff Mountain, Newcomb, NY 12946, USA
GPS coordinates
44.1031102, -73.9751452
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

The Cliff Mountain trails are located in the town of Wells in Hamilton County, New York. To get to the start of the trails, take NY-8 south from the village of Wells and turn left onto Cliff Mountain Road. The trailhead is located at the end of the road.

When?

Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
Loading

How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
What to bring?
Gear
  • Hiking shoes Essential
  • Layered clothing Essential
  • Rain jacket Essential
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
44.1031102, -73.9751452
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.5
12 Reviews
M
Marcus
Nov 15, 2025
This Adirondack peak delivers a serious physical challenge with its substantial elevation gain that demands proper preparation. The trailhead access via Cliff Mountain Road is straightforward, though visitors should budget for parking fees. The demanding ascent takes most hikers 5-6 hours, but the summit views across the mountain range make the effort worthwhile for experienced hikers seeking an intense workout.
J
Jennifer
Aug 22, 2025
A genuinely tough climb that tests your endurance throughout the entire hike. Starting early helped us avoid crowds on this popular route. The trail conditions were generally good, though certain sections feature steep rocky terrain that requires careful footing. While the paid parking adds to the overall cost, the pristine wilderness experience and panoramic views from the summit justify the challenge for well-prepared hikers.
D
David
Jun 10, 2025
This is an advanced hike that shouldn't be underestimated by anyone lacking significant trail experience. The elevation gain is relentless and sustained, requiring excellent cardiovascular fitness and mental determination. Plan for a full day of hiking with adequate water and snacks. The well-marked trailhead and paid parking access are clearly organized, making logistics straightforward despite the physical demands of the ascent.
D
David
Jun 3, 2025
An incredible wilderness experience for advanced hikers seeking a genuine challenge. The trail conditions vary seasonally, so checking weather beforehand is essential. The paid parking and access fees are worth it for the pristine Adirondack scenery and panoramic summit views. Dogs aren't permitted, but the solitude and natural beauty compensate for the difficulty.
S
Sarah
Mar 18, 2025
An incredibly rewarding but exhausting Adirondack experience that demands respect and preparation. The sustained elevation gain throughout the climb is intense, and hikers should allocate a full day for this adventure. Weather conditions can significantly impact trail difficulty, so checking forecasts before departing is essential. The summit views provide stunning panoramic vistas that reward the considerable physical effort invested in reaching the peak.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Hard
549.00 m
1057.00 m
5h30
No
No
No, Cliff Mountain is rated as a Hard difficulty hike and is not suitable for beginners. With an elevation gain of 549 m over 9.7 km and a typical duration of 5h30, this trail requires good physical fitness and hiking experience.
The Cliff Mountain trail is 9.7 km long. Combined with the significant elevation gain and challenging terrain, you should plan for approximately 5h30 to complete the hike.
The Cliff Mountain trails are located in Wells, Hamilton County, New York. From the village of Wells, take NY-8 south and turn left onto Cliff Mountain Road. The trailhead is located at the end of the road.
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Update : June 2026