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Ampersand Mountain, a classic Adirondack day hike

Ampersand Mountain is a classic Adirondack day hike. To quote Bruce Wadsworth in "An Adirondack Sampler, Day Hikes For All Seasons", he states,
"Standing on Ampersand Mountain, you can gaze into the bold face of the Seward Range, and then to the more distant high peaks. Turning around, you can look below to the Saranacs (lakes) and the lake country. Such a contrast in beauty is not available to this degree anywhere else in the Adirondacks."


The trailhead is on Route 3 beween Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake.
There is huge parking area across the road from the trailhead.


The first 1.7 miles of the hike is a tranquil idyllic "walk in the woods".  The trail is basically flat, going over various running streams and through deep beautiful forest.


The last mile is a totally different experience, as you need to ascend 1300 vertical feet in that mile. Pay close attention to the incredible trail work that has been done over the years. At one time this last mile was a very rugged, almost impossible jumble to climb. The last time I did Ampersand Mountain was eleven years ago and remember very clearly the eroded, unpleasant last mile. In recent years there has been a tremendous upgrade in the trail conditions of the last mile. Water bars and stone stairs have been placed to prevent furthur erosion and to keep the trail more manageable. The climb is still stiff, but safer conditions now prevail.


As you reach the 3352 foot summit, you will be directed through huge glacial erratics and fissures in the summit. Keep your eyes peeled for yellow paint blazes and trail markers.  Once you break out on the bald summit you will be amazed as to the openess of the views.  Although you are not very high up, the particular location of Ampersand Mountain allows the summit visitor to see so much of the surrounding areas. Bring an ADK trail map with you so you can locate all the landmarks.  The summit actually has three bumps to it, so you will have a great time walking on these knobs, taking in the views.

Bring your camera , as the photo opportunities are plentiful.  Depending on conditioning the ascent could be between an hour and half to three hours.  It is a very popular climb, so consider that when planning to hike the mountain.  It is a hike and summit view you will never forget.

 

NOTE: For a more complete description of the trail, please see ADK's (guide to)

GUIDE TO ADIRONDACK TRAILS 2 Northern Region, pp 54-57.

Enjoy!
Stuart Delman