Noonmark is one of the higher mountains in the Adirondacks. With outstanding views, this tends to be a very popular hike in the summer and fall. Noonmark can also be combined with Round Mountain. Described below is the most popular way to hike Noonmark. A successful hike involves research, physical fitness, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles. Dogs are not permitted on AMR property.

SPECIAL INFORMATION

This hike is accessed through a conservation easement with the Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR). A parking reservation is needed from May 1 - October 31. Although it is called a “parking reservation,” everyone will need a reservation to access hikes leaving from AMR, whether you drove yourself, rode a bike, got dropped-off, or walked. These reservations can be made online via the AMR website. For more information, please read these FAQs or contact the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 4.4 miles round trip
• Elevation: 3,556 feet
• Elevation gain: 2,300 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions, steep rock slab, an exposed summit, ladders, and road walk

Hiking Noonmark Mountain

This 2.2 mile, one way, hike is over moderate to steep terrain. From the parking lot (parking is not permitted on the road past the parking area), walk up the dirt road for around 0.25 miles to the register at the trailhead for Noonmark Mountain. The trail starts on a private driveway for 0.2 mi. before the foot trail bears right just before a large barn at the end of the driveway. From this point the trail is moderate as it follows an old woods road. At a bit over 0.5 miles from the trailhead you will come to the intersection for Noonmark Mountain on the right. From here the trail climbs much more aggressively through an attractive mixed forest. As you ascend, the approach becomes a bit more demanding and you will find more rock slab under foot and a trail lined with cedars. The final approach to the summit is quite steep over open rock, and the views begin to unfold.

Noonmark in the winter

Noonmark can be a challenging mountain in the winter, so make sure you are prepared. Snowshoes and microspikes are necessary. 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, and a face mask.

Find your perfect trail near Keene Valley

Does Noonmark 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 86 and Route 73 in Lake Placid, follow Route 73 toward Keene. Continue through Keene and Keene Valley and proceed to Saint Huberts. Locate the trailhead for Giant Mountain and Roaring Brook Falls on the left. The parking for Noonmark is directly across the road.