Ampersand Mountain |Mountain Visit com

Ampersand Mountain is one of the most meaningful medium hikes in Adirondacks, offering extensive summit views for a relatively short but arduous effort.

Located outside Saranac Lake, Ampersand is a popular peak for locals and tourists, with a marked trail leading to the rocky tops and panoramic views of the peaks, Saranac Lakes and other areas.

The trail to Ampersand Mountain begins on Route 3 and is more than 1,700 feet above sea level in less than 3 miles, making it short and difficult. The first half of the hike is a gentle walk through the beautiful northern hardwood forest, but it does it once the trail goes uphill. As you head to the open summit, expect steep rock scrambles, exposed roots and some handheld moments.

On the top, hikers get the most spectacular views of the Adirondack area, especially for peaks of this size. Ampersand’s Bare Summit offers a 360° view that looks through the Seward Range, Saranac Lakes, St. Regis Mountain, and even the Whiteface in the distance. Among those who solve the Saranac Lake 6ers, this accessible mileage and feel of the mountains makes Ampers and a favorite.

This guide covers everything you need to know before hiking and mountain hills, including difficulty levels, terrain notes, tracking information, and safety tips to enjoy this Adirondack classic. Whether you are working on the Saranac 6er list or just looking for a great day hike near Saranac Lake, Ampersand offers huge views in a compact package.

notes: The route also includes a walk to the edge of Saranac with a half mile at the end. So if you choose not to do this, you can deduct a mile from the total length of this hike, although it is a lovely walk.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is Ampersand Mountain?

Not that hard for ordinary mountain visitors. The first half of the trail is very easy. But once it starts to rise, it will be very steep.

Can you camp on Ampersand Mountain?

Please camp at designated campgrounds only and do not camp at the Adirondack Summit.

Ampersand Mountain Hiking Trail

Ampersand Mountain Hiking Trails include…

• Easy to keep a low profile
• Steep trails high
• Incredible naked rock summit
• Spectacular 360°Adirondack view
• Easy access to Central Saranac Lake

The complete breakdown is provided in the hiking notes below, with 13 photos.

Ampersand Mountain Hiking Time

This hike allows for 4-5 hours.

andsand and Mountain elevation gains

The elevation gain of this hike is 1750 feet (APX 230 meters).

Ampersand Mountain Trail Notes & Gallery

This hike has been on my to-do list for years, so I’m so glad I finally got to do it with my friends. We all love the mountain and swear to return to it during the warmer months. But in winter, wow, it’s a spectacular hike.

This is Ampersand Mountain Alltrails tracks My exact route to hike in this trail guide.

From the parking lot, cross route 3 and find the trail. It descends to the apartment for an easy walk of the classic Adirondack.

Then things started to steep…

Uphill until you reach an impressive side view of one edge of the summit.

The impressive rock acts as a gateway to the summit area…

Ice columns of impressive winter…

Finally, you look up at your powerful friend killing it…

The top of the Ampersand Mountain

Even on a stormy winter, there are impressive views around it…

This is an excellent representation of the total cold this day…

I don’t think we’re going to feel cold The next day, Bai Face Mountaineven if the conditions are much worse.

On the way back, the clouds cleared enough sight to get a glimpse of some of the northern lakes…

Saranac Lake, Zhonghu

Even though we were all very cold, after we got back to the car we decided to go another mile by the lake. Totally worth it…

…Standing on a frozen lake in the blasting wind! 100% will repeat!

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