Essex, New York

Looking for the best hiking in Essex? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Essex. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Hiking Spots in and near Essex

  • Bolton, New York

    Cat & Thomas Mountains

    5.0
    5.67 mi / 1280 ft gain
    There are a few ways to approach these two peaks. We chose to do a traverse using two vehicles. Starting at Edgecomb Pond Rd you will park along the road. There will be a sign and yellow discs directing you to the start of the trail. The first 0.4 miles is following a dirt road. You will the...
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  • Fort Ann, New York

    Sleeping Beauty and Bumps & Fishbrook Ponds

    6.16 mi / 1138 ft gain
    Parking is available at the end of Dacy Clearing Rd. There are great primitive campsites throughout the area. In winter and mud season you will have to park at the start of Dacy Clearing Rd which adds 1.6 miles each way. From the parking clearing, turn right passing through a gate. Soon you r...
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  • Fort Ann, New York

    Shelving Rock Mountain

    3.09 mi / 581 ft gain
    The trailhead for Shelving Rock Mountain has enough room for about five cars but additional parking can be found on the road leading to it. Be sure to sign the log book and begin the hike by passing around the "stop" car barrier. The trail starts off following a small stream (on your right) but ...
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  • Fort Ann, New York

    Shelving Rock Falls

    0.63 mi / 46 ft gain
    The hike to beautiful Shelving Rock Falls is only a half mile and well worth the side trip if visiting the east side of Lake George.  Shelving Rock Road, the road to the parking area, is long, winding, and unpaved, but maintained pretty well and passable in a sedan. You'll want to take the road ...
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  • North Creek, New York

    Gore Mountain via Schaefer Trail

    5.0
    9.14 mi / 2562 ft gain
    You will start this hike following the blue blazed Schaefer trail. Though the sign shows 5.8 miles to the summit it is actually only 5.0 miles. Much of the way you follow Roaring Brook which has many waterfalls along the way. Just after the North Creek Reservoir you will get your first glance at...
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  • Saranac Lake, New York

    Camp at Fish Creek Pond

    4.7
    Located in the Saranac Lake region there is a natural sand shoreline and water access for most campsites. There are countless rivers and ponds which allow use of motorized and non-motorized boats. The campsites are ideally located on Fish Creek Pond and Square Pond. The campsite offers a beac...
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