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Snow Mountain - A Gem Among the Giants

On Thursday October 20th, I hiked to Snow mountain, a 2360 foot summit (ascent 1360 ft) to some beautiful scenery of the surrounding mountains and valley. I parked off from route 73 in Keene Valley just 2.0 miles south of the High peaks sign. Entering the Deer brook trail, I took the low water route and was surprised at how many twists and turns this trail had. Take your time on this lower part of the trail as you can lose track of the trail. (The high water route is easier and less time consuming but be respectful of the private property that lies along this trail.)

Walking along a beautiful leaf covered trail, I started to smell that "fall smell" that I love so much. The trail was easy to slightly moderate and continued to climb through a beautiful forest. Coming to the junction at the base of Snow mountain, I could not believe just how fast I arrived here. Taking a right and heading up, I came across a ledge with a great view of Rooster Comb Mt. and its cliffs (photo) and grabbed a picture or two.

About 3 minutes later I was at the top and was surprised at just how many views this little mountain had. Walking across the summit and enjoying the views as well as the solitude, I wondered why this little mountain did not have the visitors that the others around it have had. Too many hikers whisk right by this beauty of a mountain to the surrounding areas and miss a great hike.

I finished the hike by doing the complete loop to Rooster Comb and Hedgehog mountains and although the last two mountains were higher and "more popular," I developed a special fondness for this little mountain that sits almost undetected in Keene Valley. Visit Snow Mountain and see what you are missing.

NOTE: For a more complete description of the trail, please see ADK's (guide to) ADIRONDACK TRAILS - High Peaks Region 13th Edition, pp 102-103.

Happy hiking,
Rick McCorry