The New York Department of Environmental Conservation is promoting their First Day Hikes program as a great way to burn off holiday calories while enjoying the great outdoors with friends and family. The agency is sponsoring hikes on public lands across the state on Jan. 1, 2019, including a climb up Prospect Mountain in Lake George.
The 1.5-mile hike reaches the Prospect Mountain summit 2,030 feet above LakeGeorge where hikers are treated to a 360-degree panorama of Lake George, Vermont’s Green Mountains, the New York High Peaks and the White Mountains of New Hampshire. On very clear days, according to the DEC, climbers may see the Laurentian Mountains in Canada. This trail can be very icy in the winter. Crampons or snowshoes are required. Hikers must wear appropriate clothing and should bring water and snacks.
View the DEC “Winter Safety – Prep & Precautions” video for more information on how to safely hike in the winter.
The hike begins at 10 a.m. on New Year’s Day. Pre-registration is required. RSVP to Ben Thomas at (518)623-1268, email: info.r5@dec.ny.gov.Dogs are allowed, however, the DEC warns that the hike begins on a pedestrian walkway that crosses over the Adirondack Northway (I-87), and the metal grating on the walkway may be uncomfortable for hikers with paws.