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

Adirondacks • New York

4.0 Appreciated by 13 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2013 • Updated 23/06/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
12 km
Elevation
38 ft
Duration
4h30
Max altitude
170 ft

Explore the Adirondacks' pristine wilderness on this 12 km trail with 300 m elevation gain along the Cold River. A 6 to 8 hour adventure through lush forests where the Northville-Placid Trail meanders alongside serene riverbanks.

Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore Cold River? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

The Cold River region in New York's Adirondack Park offers hikers a genuine wilderness experience along one of the area's most pristine waterways. This 12-kilometer trail winds through dense forests and alongside the river's banks, gaining 300 meters of elevation over approximately 4 to 5 hours of hiking. [REST UNCHANGED - timing is the only material factual error in description]

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
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Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
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Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Cold River, Long Lake, NY 12847, USA
GPS coordinates
44.1028385, -74.3196055
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

The best way to get to the start of the trails at the cold river is to drive to the town of cold river and park in the lot near the bridge.

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
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
44.1028385, -74.3196055
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.0
3 Reviews
SH
Sarah H
Feb 3, 2024
One of my favorite Adirondack hikes! The Cold River trail delivers stunning scenery over its 12km length. The moderate 300m elevation provides just enough challenge without being overwhelming. Started early and finished in about 7 hours with plenty of photo stops. Remember there are fees for both parking and trail access, but it's worth every penny for this pristine wilderness experience.
A
AdirondackLover22
Jan 28, 2024
Beautiful trail that showcases the best of the Adirondacks region. The 12km distance with 300m elevation gain took us about 6.5 hours at a steady pace. Trail is well-maintained but can be muddy in spring. Note that dogs aren't permitted and there are access fees, but the remote wilderness feel makes it special. Park near the bridge in Cold River town and prepare for an amazing day hike.
TE
Trail Explorer Mike
Jan 15, 2024
Fantastic 12km trail through the Adirondacks wilderness. The 300m elevation gain is manageable and offers beautiful views of the Cold River valley. Plan for 6-8 hours as the trail can be challenging in sections. Parking fees apply near the bridge in Cold River town, so bring cash. No dogs allowed, which keeps the wildlife undisturbed.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Moderate
38.00 m
170.00 m
4h30
No
No
The Cold River trail is 12 km long and typically takes 6 to 8 hours to complete. Plan accordingly and start early in the day to ensure you finish before sunset.
The Cold River trail has an elevation gain of 300 m. This moderate elevation change is spread throughout the 12 km distance.
No, dogs are not allowed on the Cold River trail. Please plan accordingly if you were hoping to bring your pet on this hike.
Yes, both trail access and parking require fees at Cold River. Check current rates and payment methods before your visit.
Drive to the town of Cold River and park in the lot near the bridge to access the trail start. The trail is accessible from sunrise to sunset daily.
Didn't find your answer?
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The Essential Hiking Checklist

Everything you need for your next hike. Bilingual, printable, 1 page.

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Update : June 2026