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Hike Indian Head and Fish Hawk Cliffs

Keene Valley, New York

4.3/5
based on 8 reviews

Details

Distance

10.4 miles

Elevation Gain

2000 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Lucas Gashi

This 10.4 mile loop in Keene Valley, NY offers up gorgeous views of Indian Head and Ausable Lakes. There are no dogs allowed on this trail. 

At 10.4 mile long, this lengthy, but easy loop takes you to two ADK lower peaks. The views from Indian Head and Fish Hawk Cliffs will blow your mind away. I love stopping here every time I make my way to ADK. The colors are absolutely gorgeous in the fall. From the parking lot, take the lake road 3.3 miles. Once you reach the sign for Indian head and Fish Hawk cliffs, it is only a short climb of 0.7 miles to Indian Head and another 0.2 to Fish Hawk Cliffs. At Indian Head, take in the views and check out the cliffs. Make your way to Fish Hawk Cliffs, don't forget to look back at at Indian Head! The views on Indian Head itself are spectacular. This rock formation has to be seen to be appreciated. The views of the Ausable lakes from these two spots are outstanding. After Fish Hawk Cliffs, walk back to Indian Head. Once you reach up top follow the sign for the Gill Brook Trail. The Gill Brook Trail gives you scenic waterfalls and cascades to please the eyes and ears. The trail will lead you back to the Lake Road and from there just walk straight to your car.

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Features

Hiking
Lake
Romantic
Scenic

Hike Indian Head and Fish Hawk Cliffs Reviews

This is one of the best hikes in the state. Would highly recommend, although it is a very popular trail because of its beauty.

According to the rangers, on weekends the trailhead parking can fill by 5am. We arrived around 8 and people were parking over a mile away. I had this hike on my list and almost backed out last minute because I expected the lookout to be overcrowded and underwhelming. Although there was a decent crowd at the lookout, there was plenty of space to spread out and hang. The view was even more beautiful than anticipated. SO happy I went forward and hiked it. Easy 10 miler with grand views!

Indian Head and Fish Hawk Cliffs is probably THE place to visit during the Adirondacks fall foliage. The view is jaw-dropping, which is why it attracts so many people each year. Definitely take the Gill Brook Trail also. Whether it be on the way up or way down. The route includes some beautiful waterfalls.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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