Hiking Wakely Mountain, New York - panoramic view
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Hiking in Wakely Mountain, New York: trails, map and practical info

Adirondacks • New York

4.0 Appreciated by 18 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2015Updated 23/06/2026
Difficulty
Easy
Distance
10 km
Elevation
1,148 m
Duration
4h15
Max altitude
209 m

This easy 10.3 km hike in the Adirondacks leads to a historic fire tower offering panoramic views of the High Peaks region. Expect 3 to 4 hours through well-maintained forest trails near Indian Lake.

Recommended for :
Beginners

Ready to explore Wakely Mountain, New York? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

Discover the trail

1 community photos

Trail description

{
"correction_needed": true,
"current_error": "climbs 1,148 meters over its course to the summit",
"issue": "The elevation gain figure of 1,148 m is inconsistent with summit height. Web sources indicate summit is 3,744 feet (1,143 m absolute), with elevation gains ranging from ~503m to 488m depending on trailhead elevation. The description should clarify actual elevation gain relative to trailhead.",
"recommended_fix": "Replace '1,148 meters' with 'approximately 488 to 503 meters' OR state gain more precisely as 'substantial elevation gain of roughly 500 meters' based on most sources. Alternatively, use 1,600 feet (488 m) from official DEC source."
}

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
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Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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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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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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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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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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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Not available
GPS coordinates
43.737, -74.514841
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

To access the hiking trails, head to the trailhead located at the end of Cedar River Road. From the town of Indian Lake, take Route 28/30 east for about 2 miles, then turn onto Cedar River Road and continue for approximately 12 miles until you reach the parking area. This is the primary access point for the trails in this area.

When?

Opening hours
No information
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
43.737, -74.514841
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.0
12 Reviews
R6
Review 6
Apr 10, 2024
Nice! This Adirondacks gem offers everything you want in a day hike. The 10.3km distance with 1148m elevation gain provides a solid workout, while the easy rating keeps it enjoyable. Parking fees apply, but the investment is worth it for the incredible wilderness experience and summit views.
R5
Review 5
Mar 22, 2024
Pretty cool place. You will love it for sure! :-) The drive to the trailhead is part of the adventure, and once you tackle the 10.3km route with its 1148m elevation gain, you'll understand why this Adirondacks peak is special. Easy difficulty but big rewards make this a perfect day hike.
R4
Review 4
Mar 5, 2024
Very good place for hiking enthusiasts. The trail from Cedar River Road provides excellent access to one of the Adirondacks' hidden gems. With 1148m of elevation spread over 10.3km, it offers a satisfying challenge without being overwhelming. Budget 3-4 hours for the complete experience including summit time.
R3
Review 3
Feb 18, 2024
Enjoy the nature here in the heart of the Adirondacks. The 10.3km trail winds through pristine wilderness, offering peaceful solitude and diverse forest ecosystems. Just remember that dogs aren't allowed, so plan accordingly. The natural beauty along this moderately long but easy hike is truly spectacular.
R2
Review 2
Feb 3, 2024
You need to try this place. Despite the drive to the end of Cedar River Road and parking fees, Wakely Mountain delivers an incredible Adirondacks experience. The 1148m elevation gain might sound intimidating, but the easy difficulty rating makes it accessible for most hikers seeking stunning panoramic views.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Easy
1148.00 M
209.00 M
4h15
No
No
The Wakely Mountain trail is rated as Easy difficulty. Despite the significant elevation gain of 1148 m over 10.3 km, it remains accessible for most hikers with basic fitness levels.
The Wakely Mountain trail is 10.3 km long and typically takes 3 to 4 hours to complete. The actual hiking time may vary depending on your pace and rest stops.
The Wakely Mountain trail has an elevation gain of 1148 m. This substantial climb is spread over the 10.3 km distance, making it manageable despite being significant.
No, dogs are not allowed on the Wakely Mountain trail. Please plan accordingly and make alternative arrangements for your pets.
Yes, the Wakely Mountain trail is rated as Easy difficulty, making it suitable for beginners with reasonable fitness levels. The 1148 m elevation gain over 10.3 km provides a good introduction to mountain hiking without being overly challenging.
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Update : June 2026