Piseco Airport

The Northville-Placid Trail offers an unparalleled journey into the Adirondack wilderness, a truly wild experience distinct from the region's high peaks. This difficult hiking route, stretching 139.8 miles (225.0 km) with 12048 feet (3672 metres) of elevation gain, immerses you in deep forests, past numerous quiet backcountry lakes like Mud Lake and Woods Lake, and through vast wetlands. Expect a challenging but rewarding trek, often taking around 61 hours and 44 minutes of active hiking time, with terrain characterized by roots, rocks, mud, and frequent stream crossings.

Due to its remote nature, planning your visit to the Northville-Placid Trail requires careful consideration; resupply points can be over 40 miles apart, so pack sufficient provisions. While the trail is marked, strong navigation skills are crucial as it winds through dense forests and can be wet. Thru-hiking the entire route typically takes 8 to 14 days, and many hikers find its challenges, including potential reroutes due to beaver activity, more demanding than anticipated.

As New York State's oldest long-distance trail, completed in 1924, the Northville-Placid Trail holds significant historical value and offers a unique sense of solitude. Unlike peak-bagging trails, its allure lies in traversing valleys and high plateaus, connecting hikers to the Adirondacks' natural beauty through an extensive network of lean-tos and abundant water sources. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a deep wilderness experience and a break from more crowded trails.