Three Brothers

  • Garden Trailhead, Keene Valley

Hike Features

Summit
An early morning view of mountains in the winter
A spruce-covered mountain in the alpenglow
The summit is marked by a blue disk.
This range includes the Three Brothers, Big Slide, and Porter.

The Three Brothers are summits leading up to Big Slide. While typically done in conjuction with Big Slide, The Brothers can be hiked separately and make for a good day hike. Hikers should learn about Leave No Trace principles before hiking any trail in the Adirondacks.

Key takeaways

  • Distance: 4.6 miles round trip
  • Elevation gain: 2,240 feet
  • Elevation: First Brother, 2,940 feet; Second Brother, 3,120 feet; Third Brother, 3,681 feet
  • Hike includes steep rock slab and exposed summits

Hiking the Three Brothers

The Three Brothers are generally climbed in conjunction with Big Slide Mountain. However, the First and Second Brothers are worthy destinations by themselves. The First and Second Brothers both have outstanding views, while the Third Brother, the tallest of the three, is mostly wooded. The Third Brother has a unique view of Big Slide Mountain.

If climbing the Three Brothers is your day’s destination, then the primary route below is best. They can also be approached from Big Slide if you are coming from Johns Brook Lodge or Yard Mountain. Visit Cascade Welcome Center or consult a local guide for more information.

This route is 1.3 miles to the First Brother, 1.55 miles to the Second Brother and 2.3 miles to the Third Brother, one way. From the parking lot you will start climbing immediately up a steady course to a brook crossing. Past this point you will climb steeply over several small open ledges to the amazing views from the 1st Brother. After a short descent you will climb steeply again, up the rocky slopes and ledges of the 2nd Brother, and achieve even more views. Past the 2nd Brother you will drop into an open valley and start a much longer and steadier climb to the wooded summit of the 3rd Brother. There is a view of Big Slide from here.

The Brothers in the winter

The Three Brothers are challenging mountains in the winter that should only be attempted by experienced hikers, so make sure you are prepared. Snowshoes are necessary, and microspikes are needed to climb some of the steeper sections. Plan on temperatures in the higher elevations being at least 20 degrees colder than at the trailhead, not including the windchill. Bring several extra non-cotton layers, a headlamp with spare batteries, extra food, a windbreaker, goggles, a face mask, and supplies for spending the night in case of an emergency.

Find your perfect trail near Lake Placid

Do the Three Brothers sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? No need to stress, with over 2000 miles of hiking trails in the Adirondacks we are sure we can find the perfect hike for you. 

How to get there

From the intersection of Route 73 and 86 in Lake Placid follow Route 73 toward Keene. Proceed through Keene into Keene Valley on Route 73. Take the right after the Ausable Inn and follow to the end of the road at The Garden. There is a day fee to use this lot. Parking is limited and the lot is usually full early on weekends. On fall weekends, a shuttle bus runs from the overflow parking at Marcy Field north of Keene Valley. Parking is not permitted on the road to the Garden, so one must park in the village if not using the shuttle

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