The best walks and hikes around North Creek
5.0
(4)
71
hikers
3
hikes
Hiking around North Creek offers access to the Southern Adirondack Park, characterized by diverse mountain ranges, extensive trail networks, and numerous water features. The region features prominent peaks such as Moxham Mountain and Gore Mountain, alongside serene bodies of water like Thirteenth Lake and Palmer Pond. Hikers can explore varied terrain, from forested paths to open summits, within this less crowded wilderness area.
Best hiking trails around North Creek
- The most popular hiking route is Moxham Mountain loop from Moxham Mountain Trailhead Parking, a 4.9 miles (7.9 km) trail that takes 2 hours 28 minutes to complete. This moderate route features multiple lookouts and panoramic summit views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Gore Mountain loop from North Creek, a difficult 9.3 miles (15.0 km) path. This challenging route offers significant elevation gain and views of the High Peaks region.
- Local hikers also love the Palmer Pond Loop Trail, a 4.1 miles (6.6 km) trail leading through forested areas and past Palmer Pond, often completed in about 1 hour 47 minutes.
- Hiking around North Creek is defined by access to the Adirondack Park, diverse mountain ranges, and numerous ponds and lakes. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy walks to challenging mountain ascents.
- The routes in North Creek are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from a few reviews. More than 60 hikers have used komoot to explore North Creek's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 13, 2026
6.56km
01:47
90m
90m
The Palmer Pond Loop Trail offers a delightful and accessible hiking experience, winding through peaceful wooded areas and along the shores of the scenic Palmer Pond. You'll follow a singletrack path that is largely flat and soft underfoot, though some sections have roots and rocks, adding a touch of natural texture to the journey. The highlight is undoubtedly the tranquil atmosphere around the 31-acre pond, with several spur trails leading to lovely viewpoints, perfect for soaking in the natural beauty and spotting wildlife.
Planning your visit to this easy 4.1-mile (6.6 km) loop is straightforward, as it's known for being family-friendly and accessible. With only 296 feet (90 metres) of elevation gain, most hikers can complete it in about 1 hour and 46 minutes. The trail is located near Chestertown, New York, within the Wilcox Lake Wild Forest, and generally has available trailhead parking. It's a great option for a relaxed outing, suitable for most fitness levels.
This trail is a notable part of the Chester Challenge, encouraging exploration of the region's trails. Palmer Pond itself is managed as a coldwater fishery, stocked with various trout species, which adds to its serene appeal for anglers and nature lovers alike. The area also features handicap-accessible campsites, highlighting its commitment to welcoming all visitors to enjoy the natural environment.
5.0
(1)
44
hikers
7.92km
02:28
300m
300m
The Moxham Mountain loop offers a rewarding Adirondack experience, winding through diverse forests of beech, birch, hemlock, and pine. You'll pass by large glacial erratics and a stream fed by an old beaver pond, but the real highlight is the continuous series of scenic overlooks. These rocky outcrops provide expansive views of peaks like Gore Mountain and Blue Mountain, as well as the Hudson River Valley, making the 4.9-mile (7.9 km) journey feel incredibly dynamic.
This moderate hike, with its 981 feet (299 metres) of elevation gain, is designed to feel gradual and manageable, typically taking around 2 hours and 28 minutes. The trailhead parking is easily accessible, and the route is well-marked, making it a great choice for families or those new to mountain hiking. It's a popular spot for snowshoeing in winter, but for hiking, late spring to fall offers the best conditions.
What makes Moxham Mountain particularly notable is its abundance of viewpoints throughout the trail, rather than just at the summit. Constructed in 2012, the trail was specifically designed to optimize these views and minimize steepness, providing a rewarding mountain experience without extreme difficulty. It's an excellent introduction to Adirondack mountain hiking, showcasing varied ecosystems and offering a high payoff for a moderate effort.
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5.0
(1)
9
hikers
2.81km
00:57
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
3.33km
00:53
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
15.0km
05:03
780m
780m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around North Creek
Tips from the Community
Palmer pond is an easy, pretty hike. The western side of the pond floods sometimes, so you may need to take the trail around the eastern side (left at the fork from the trailhead) both ways in wet weather.
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From here you can do an easy two mile hike around Palmer Pond or hike up the southern peak of McGann Mountain for views across the Hudson.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of hiking trails can I find around North Creek?
North Creek, located within the Southern Adirondack Park, offers a wide variety of hiking experiences. You'll find everything from gentle, forested paths suitable for families to challenging mountain ascents with significant elevation gain. The region is known for its diverse landscapes, including prominent peaks like Moxham Mountain and Crane Mountain, as well as serene bodies of water such as Thirteenth Lake and Peaked Mountain Pond.
Are there any easy or family-friendly hiking options in North Creek?
Yes, North Creek provides several easy and family-friendly hiking options. For a pleasant walk through forested areas, consider the Palmer Pond Loop Trail, which is about 6.6 km long. Another accessible option is the Meade Mountain loop from Meade Mountain, a shorter 2.8 km route. The Garnet Hill Ski Trails, in warmer months, also offer wide, even paths suitable for leisurely walks.
Where can I find challenging hikes with scenic views near North Creek?
For challenging hikes with rewarding views, North Creek has excellent options. The Gore Mountain loop from North Creek is a difficult 15 km path offering significant elevation gain and stunning vistas of the High Peaks region. Other peaks like Crane Mountain and Moxham Mountain also provide spectacular panoramic views from their summits, making them popular choices for more strenuous adventures.
Are there any loop trails available for hiking in the North Creek area?
Yes, several loop trails are available, providing varied scenery without retracing your steps. The Moxham Mountain loop from Moxham Mountain Trailhead Parking is a moderate 7.9 km route featuring multiple lookouts. You can also explore the Palmer Pond Loop Trail, an easy 6.6 km option, or the shorter Meade Mountain loop from Meade Mountain.
What are some notable natural features or attractions to see while hiking?
The North Creek area is rich in natural attractions. You can hike to serene bodies of water like Peaked Mountain Pond, Thirteenth Lake, and Palmer Pond. The impressive OK Slip Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the Adirondacks, is a significant natural highlight. Many trails also lead to mountain summits such as Peaked Mountain, Crane Mountain, and Moxham Mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Is North Creek a good destination for less crowded hiking experiences?
Yes, North Creek is an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter hiking experience. Compared to the often-crowded trails in the Adirondack High Peaks, the Southern Adirondack Park, where North Creek is situated, generally offers a more serene environment. This provides more opportunities to observe local flora and fauna in a peaceful setting.
What do other hikers say about the trails in North Creek?
The hiking routes in North Creek are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from forested paths to open summits, and the access to the less crowded wilderness of the Southern Adirondack Park.
Are there any historical sites or unique points of interest accessible by trail?
Yes, the region has historical and unique points of interest. The Hooper Mine offers a shorter, historic hike. You can also visit the Garnet Mine Tour to learn about the area's history and even hunt for garnets, for which the region is famous. The Garnet Hill Ski Trails, when not used for skiing, provide paths through woods and past historic remnants.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in North Creek?
North Creek offers year-round hiking opportunities, with each season providing a unique experience. Spring brings lush greenery, while summer is ideal for exploring lakes and higher elevations. Fall is particularly popular for its vibrant foliage. Winter hiking is also possible, with trails suitable for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, though it requires appropriate gear and preparation for colder conditions.
Are there specific trails that are dog-friendly in North Creek?
Many trails within the Adirondack Park are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash and owners practice Leave No Trace principles. While specific komoot routes don't explicitly state 'dog-friendly,' generally, trails like the Palmer Pond Loop Trail or paths in the Siamese Ponds Wilderness Area are suitable for well-behaved dogs. Always check local regulations or specific trail signage before heading out with your pet.
Is public transport available to reach hiking trails around North Creek?
While North Creek itself has some amenities, direct public transport to specific trailheads can be limited. Most hikers rely on personal vehicles to access the various trailheads scattered throughout the Southern Adirondack Park. It's advisable to plan your transportation in advance, especially for trails further from the town center.
Where can I find more information about hiking in North Creek?
For additional information about hiking trails and the broader outdoor offerings in the area, you can visit the local tourism website: visitnorthcreek.org. This resource often provides details on trail conditions, local attractions, and other activities.
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