The Pinnacle and Bradley's Lookout via Yellow, Red, and Blue Trail
The Pinnacle and Bradley's Lookout via Yellow, Red, and Blue Trail
02:08
6.39km
320m
Hiking
Embark on The Pinnacle and Bradley's Lookout via Yellow, Red, and Blue Trail, a moderate hike that offers rewarding views. This route covers 4.0 miles (6.4 km) and involves a climb of 1057 feet (322 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 8 minutes to complete. As you hike, you will experience classic Adirondack terrain, featuring sections of dirt, gravel, and some rocky ascents, particularly as you approach the summits. The trail leads you to two distinct viewpoints, The Pinnacle and Bradley's Lookout, both providing expansive vistas of Lake George.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the preserve is conveniently located just five minutes from Bolton Landing. You will find parking generally available at the trailhead, making access easy for your outing. If you wish to bring your canine companion, leashed dogs are welcome on the trails. This route is also accessible during the colder months, offering opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter.
Both The Pinnacle and Bradley's Lookout offer impressive 270-degree views of Lake George, allowing you to spot notable landmarks like the Tongue Mountain Range and Dome Island. This trail provides a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. It is a great choice for hikers seeking scenic rewards without an overly strenuous commitment, making it a highlight near Bolton Landing.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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281 m
The Pinnacle
Nature Reserve
6.36 km
Bradley's lookout
Viewpoint
6.39 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
6.39 km
Surfaces
6.40 km
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This route was planned by komoot.
The trailhead for The Pinnacle and Bradley's Lookout is conveniently located just five minutes from Bolton Landing. Parking is available at the preserve's designated lot.
This route is generally considered moderate. The Blue Trail to Bradley's Lookout is shorter and less strenuous, making it suitable for families. The Red Trail to The Pinnacle is longer and includes a steeper, rocky ascent in parts, but it also features switchbacks to manage the incline.
The full route, combining sections of the Yellow, Red, and Blue Trails, typically takes around 2 hours and 8 minutes to complete. This is for a total distance of approximately 6.4 kilometers.
You'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Lake George, offering expansive 270-degree vistas. From the summits, you can spot landmarks like the Tongue Mountain Range, Buck Mountain, Shelving Rock, Dome Island, the Narrows, and the Sagamore Resort.
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on the trails within The Pinnacle Preserve. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.
The trail offers beauty across multiple seasons. It's particularly popular for its stunning fall foliage. In winter, it's also open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. For pleasant hiking conditions, spring and fall are ideal.
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access The Pinnacle Preserve. It is maintained by the Lake George Land Conservancy for public enjoyment and conservation.
Absolutely! The Blue Trail leading to Bradley's Lookout is highly recommended for families or those seeking a less strenuous hike. It's 0.8 miles one way with a mostly gradual incline, offering beautiful views with minimal effort.
The terrain varies. The Blue Trail has a mostly gradual incline with a steeper, rocky section near the lookout. The Red Trail starts with gradual inclines, follows an old road in parts, and includes a 0.5-mile section with a steeper, rocky ascent. Expect typical Adirondack terrain with dirt, gravel, and mildly rocky sections throughout.
Yes, the Yellow Trail, which starts about 1.0 mile into the Red Trail, provides connections to longer routes leading to Edgecomb Pond and Cat Mountain for those looking for a more extensive adventure.
Yes, the trails are multi-use. Mountain biking is allowed, but hikers should always be respected, and bikes should be walked on the dirt road sections. In winter, the trails are also open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, offering a different way to experience the preserve.
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