The Highest elevation in New York State is Mount Marcy. Back during my undergrad, my boyfriend Drew and I decided we were going to hike it for our anniversary on a whim. Not even twenty minutes later we literally threw a mattress in the back of his pickup truck, and we were driving North on I-87.
Mount Marcy is an 18-mile hike round trip near Lake Placid, in what some would call upstate New York. The route we endeavored was 6 hours to the summit and 6 hours back down to the base. WARNING: This hike is not for beginner hikers, and I recommend you to be in somewhat good physical shape before taking on this challenge. *stamina is key.
We arrived that night- it was pitch black, and we ended up camping out near Johns Brook Lodge Area at the base of the mountain (this was a $10 fee). Also, we noticed another campground in the area that was available to camp and pitched tents. We woke up before the sun the next morning and realized we had no food or water. We drove back to a local gas station and picked up snacks and water, and we were so glad we did. If you decide to embark on this hike, make sure you are prepared with a generous amount of food and water. This hike is demanding, and you’ll enjoy the experience more if you nourish your body along the way.
The hike began smoothly with beautiful scenic trails, flowing creeks, and waterfalls. Pretty soon after that, we came across I would say an uphill battle. It was definitely a huge incline so be prepared- and make sure you wear the proper footwear! I would recommend investing in hiking boots if you don’t have a pair because sneakers did not cut it for this girl. The trail is very narrow, so if you are walking slower or need to take a break, try to be considerate and go off to the side to let other adventurers pass since it's a tight squeeze. At least for the trail Drew and I chose.
A quarter of the way we found this beautiful brook known as Phelps Brook. This was a nice place to take a break, hydrate and relax to the sound of running water. Then we came to Indian Falls, which gave an incredible view. Once you reach a certain elevation, the Alpine vegetation appears until it surrounds the trail. You will arrive at a wooden bridge not too high off the ground for explorers to stay on to not destroy the Alpine vegetation.
Finally, after 6 hours we made it to the top. 5,343 feet high, it took my breath away. The view was unbelievable. The air was so crisp and refreshing. You are quite literally above the clouds at the peak. Speaking of clouds, Mount Marcy is also known as Tahawus, which means cloud splitter which is quite an appropriate name. When you reach the top, the clouds surround you with a 360-degree view, and the mountain top splits the clouds in half right in front of you. I was definitely on cloud nine all the way at the top. I just sat there and admired the view for an hour. Even when I look at these pictures, now I am still in disbelief. I would highly recommend this hike and if you hike it should be on your bucket list!
The second best part of hiking after reaching your destination is that it is much easier to climb down. It took the same amount of time to go down and is just as demanding as climbing up. Be careful not to slip down large boulders which comprise most of the trail. 6 hours later we made it down to the base. Drew and I ran to his truck with open arms. We embraced our new blisters, cuts, and dirt on our clothes with satisfied smiles on the whole ride home. What an amazing experience!
TIPS
· Wear boots meant for hiking
· Bring a day's worth of water per person
· Don’t pack heavy or greasy foods. Fruits, nuts, and similar foods should get you through the day.
· If they offer you a map- take it!
· You’ll meet people from all over the world hiking this mountain, so start a conversation! You never know what stories or tips someone might have to offer!
· Enjoy the views!
· Pack toilet tissue! ;)
* All photos were taken by my wonderful and talented boyfriend, Andrew Maloney!
Follow him on Instagram: drew_maloney
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