Haystack Mountain
Scenic and Destination Hikes Central Adirondack Association Region
Trail Head:
1.6 miles east from Ray Brook Rd on Rt 86
Length: a 6.2 mile round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Activities: hiking
Static Trail Map
Elevation Profile
Not to be confused with the High Peak Mt. Haystack! Haystack Mountain is a friendlier climb, a great choice for a morning or afternoon with experienced hikers, or a workable day trip for beginners. A final steep climb leads to an open rock face and ledge with sweeping views of the High Peaks, Whiteface and the Saranac Lakes Chain.
The parking lot and trailhead, 1.6 miles east of DEC headquarters in Ray Brook, is for both McKenzie and Haystack Mountains. The trail climbs gently, beginning at an elevation of 1670'. At 2.4 miles the trail to Haystack branches off to the left. Almost immediately you cross an old dam. After that the trail climbs approximately 800' in .9 miles to the summit. The eastern side of the summit ridge is open rock allowing a 180 degree view, including the High Peaks.1
Are you a Saranac 6er? Hike all 6 peaks in a day (Ultra), in the winter, or whenever you can. Kick off weekend May 25-27, 2013. Details on www.saranaclake.com or www.saranaclake6er.com. Go bag a peak!
1 www.saranaclake.com