10 Adirondack Hikes Straight Out of "The Lord of the Rings"

If you’re looking for your own Brandywine Bridge (the notable crossing of the Brandywine River in the Shire) look no further than Bog River Falls. Just south of Tupper Lake, in the Horseshoe Lake Wild Forest in the Town of Piercefield, the Bog River pours into the southern tip of Big Tupper Lake via a beautiful set of falls. The upper portion of the waterfall splits around a small island. The bottom and steeper portion of the falls travels under an arched stone bridge, just like Brandywine!

For a hike as epic as the Misty Mountains, Algonquin Peak takes the prize in both majesty and views. As New York’s second-highest peak, Algonquin is an undertaking that requires physical fitness, research of the trail, and perhaps a hobbit or wizard to accompany you. If you don't have a mystical friend on hand who knows the region, Leave No Trace is the perfect education on trail etiquette, safety, and resources. 

While you won't have to worry about the goblin towns or orc hoards of the Misty Mountains on your climb, the ascent is a steep, strenuous hike for much of its length. Your reward however makes the journey worth it, with sweeping 360 degree views at the rocky top, and plenty of space to roam and take photos of the surrounding Adirondacks. 

Although you may not find marshland as deadly as the Dead Marshes, the Adirondacks do house a section of marshland that takes some planning to explore. Heron Marsh at Paul Smith’s VIC opens up to a world of marshland and bogs, where birding is at its best. A network of platforms are at the ready, making your crossing a whole lot safer than the swamps of Middle-Earth. If you want something longer but just as easy, continue straight to the boardwalk over the marsh, the perfect way to traverse wetlands without getting wet!

Much like the fortification of Helm’s Deep, Poke-O-Moonshine will have you feeling like you’re at the center of a mystical fortress, due to its historic fire tower and massive east-facing cliffs. At 2,180-foot, this peak offers an incredible vantage point over the surrounding Taylor Pond Wild Forest near Willsboro. In the distance, take in the stunning views of the Champlain Valley and the High Peaks. 

If you're wondering why so many choose the Adirondacks for a Lord of the Rings-inspired adventure, Gothics Mountain is reason enough. As towering as any Middle-Earth mountain, paired with incredible views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and lakes of the region, a hike up Gothics will transport your imagination instantly.  

As the 10th-highest mountain in New York state, Gothics is equally stunning in its beauty and difficulty. On your ascent you'll come across towering falls, steep climbs (including using a ladder more than once) and views of Gothics' neighboring peaks. If you're looking to avoid the steepest conditions of the mountain, consider starting from the Ausable Mountain Reserve (AMR). 

Situated on the shores of Mirror Lake, Cobble Hill is perfect for beginner adventurers, thanks to its calm and tranquil climb and surroundings. The bald cobble on its face makes this peak easy to spot from far away. This trail is a great start for beginners, at 1.6 miles roundtrip. From the top you'll find excellent views of the village of Lake Placid, as well as the surrounding valleys, much like the Shire!

If you’ve ever wanted to visit Lake Town (maybe before Smaug gets the same idea) Long Lake is calling! Lake life is king here, with much of the town's bustling businesses operating just off the water. To get the most out of the lake views, hike up Owl's Head Mountain. There are four separate summits that make up this peak, two of which are known as the “horns” giving the mountain the look of an owl's head. For a boost in views, there is also a fire tower at the top. 

Heaven Hill Trails offers the same sweeping views, gentle trails, and serene surroundings as Lothlórien, also known as Paradise Valley. Recreation here is nothing short of heavenly, with paths that loop through wild grasslands and calm woods. Around the property you’ll be able to catch glimpses of Heaven Hill Farm, as well as the nearby High Peaks that tower over the valley.

As Weathertop stood as an old sentinel watchtower in The Lord of the Rings, we have something similar here in the Adirondacks. Pillsbury Mountain's fire tower is just one of many in the region, standing tall over the treeline. Once built for forest rangers to detect forest fires before they could spread, these retired towers now offer the perfect opportunity for pictures, view points, and even the chance to earn a patch in Hamilton County. 

For a hike up Pillsbury Mountain, start early to get a jump on the challenging terrain, with steep sections, mud, and some slippery areas. To get the best views, make the climb up the fire tower. 

For a Wilderness Area that demands each adventurer’s attention, Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area is magnificent. The 46,283-acre wilderness contains an abundance of lakes and ponds, the largest being Pharaoh Lake, at 441 acres. There are nearly 70 miles of trails within the Wilderness Area and no shortage of campsites, making any trip here range from a few days to a whole week!