Porter Mountain, New York hiking , Adirondacks, New York, United States

Why hike at Porter Mountain, New York ?

Porter Mountain is in Essex County of New York. It is one of the 46 Adirondack High Peaks and is located in the Adirondack Park. Its name comes from Noah Porter, later president of Yale University and one of the first to climb it. Somewhat overshadowed by its higher and more popular neighbor, Cascade Mountain, with which it is often climbed, Porter is nevertheless rewarding. While it lacks the pseudo-alpine open summit of Cascade, there are nevertheless wide views available from the summit, particularly of the Johns Brook Valley to the east (which Porter blocks from Cascade); it is often less crowded than Cascade. A yellow-blazed trail leaves the trail to Cascade about 0.5 mile (approximately 1 km) short of that mountain's summit, and leads down into the col between the two peaks about 1 mile (1.6 km) to Porter’s summit. It is also possible to follow this trail from its other terminus, over neighboring Blueberry Mountain from Keene Valley, although that involves a greater vertical ascent and a longer trip. The trailhead to Blueberry Mountain and subsequently Porter Mountain is accessible from a parking lot next to Marcy Airfield on route 73.

The Porter Mountain is located in the Adirondacks, in New York. It's a popular destination for hikers, as it offers great views of the surrounding area. The mountain has two peaks, the higher of which is 2,510 feet above sea level. The lower peak is 2,405 feet high. There are several trails that lead to the summit, and the hike takes around three hours to complete. The mountain is also home to a number of wildlife species, including black bears, deer, and bobcats.

For those interested in exploring further afield within this stunning region, Cascade & Porter offer an enticing combination for hiking enthusiasts. Known collectively as Cascade porter hikes due to their proximity and shared trails, these mountains provide an excellent opportunity for adventurers seeking diverse landscapes within the Adirondacks.

The nearby Cascade Lakes add another layer of natural beauty to this area. These serene bodies of water are perfect for relaxation after a challenging hike up either peak or simply enjoying a peaceful day surrounded by nature's splendor.

Ed Phelps was among those who contributed significantly to mapping out these trails within this range during his explorations in earlier times. His efforts have made it easier for modern-day hikers to navigate through these picturesque terrains safely.