The hike up Jenkins is long but it isn't terribly difficult, making it perfect for anyone seeking a nice woods ramble that ends in a great view.
By the numbers
- Distance: about 4.5 miles to the summit from both parking areas
- Elevation: 2,513 feet
- Ascent: about 900 feet
Getting there
From downtown Saranac Lake, take Route 86 west, toward Paul Smiths, for about 10 miles. At the intersection with the college, turn right on Route 30. The VIC is on the left shortly after the turn. The VIC is on the left, about a mile past the turn. Turn into the well-marked driveway and follow it to the large parking area.
Hiking
Cross the paved road you drove in on and head for the gazebo. Follow the trail as it dips down to Heron Marsh and crosses Barnum Brook, after which it officially becomes the Jenkins Mountain Trail. Continue through a pleasant hardwood forest to a T-intersection and turn right, following the blue trail markers. The trail meanders through the forest without gaining or losing much elevation. It soon passes the Black Pond/Long Pond trail, described below, before passing a couple attractive beaver ponds. Shortly after the ponds, the trail makes a broad sweep around the base of the mountain before the moderate climb to the partially open summit begins. The outstanding view includes waterways and some attractive wilderness peaks.
Snowshoeing
This is a long, but considered only moderate, ski or shoe, with lots of switchbacks to keep it doable. Keep a look out for blue markings if there's a fresh snow and no trail broken out. Enjoy some sweet transitions from wide path to forest hiking, and when it gets steep it is near the end and the summit.
Jenkins Mountain
- Route 30Paul Smiths, NY 12970
info@paulsmiths.edu
The hike up Jenkins is long but it isn't terribly difficult, making it perfect for anyone seeking a nice woods ramble that ends in a great view.
By the numbers
- Distance: about 4.5 miles to the summit from both parking areas
- Elevation: 2,513 feet
- Ascent: about 900 feet
Getting there
From downtown Saranac Lake, take Route 86 west, toward Paul Smiths, for about 10 miles. At the intersection with the college, turn right on Route 30. The VIC is on the left shortly after the turn. The VIC is on the left, about a mile past the turn. Turn into the well-marked driveway and follow it to the large parking area.
Hiking
Cross the paved road you drove in on and head for the gazebo. Follow the trail as it dips down to Heron Marsh and crosses Barnum Brook, after which it officially becomes the Jenkins Mountain Trail. Continue through a pleasant hardwood forest to a T-intersection and turn right, following the blue trail markers. The trail meanders through the forest without gaining or losing much elevation. It soon passes the Black Pond/Long Pond trail, described below, before passing a couple attractive beaver ponds. Shortly after the ponds, the trail makes a broad sweep around the base of the mountain before the moderate climb to the partially open summit begins. The outstanding view includes waterways and some attractive wilderness peaks.
Snowshoeing
This is a long, but considered only moderate, ski or shoe, with lots of switchbacks to keep it doable. Keep a look out for blue markings if there's a fresh snow and no trail broken out. Enjoy some sweet transitions from wide path to forest hiking, and when it gets steep it is near the end and the summit.
Packages and Promotions
range
Valid Dec. 1
- Dec. 1
Valid Dec. 1
- Dec. 1
Linger Longer in Saranac Lake
Best Western Saranac Lake
Best Western Saranac Lake
Linger Longer in Saranac Lake at our supremely located property, Best Western Saranac Lake. Stay 2 nights or more and get 15% off!
package
Mid-Week Discounts, Other
range
Valid Jan. 21
- Mar. 31
Valid Jan. 21
- Mar. 31
Titus Mountain Ski Package
Voco Saranac Lake
Voco Saranac Lake
Enjoy your stay at the award winning voco Saranac Lake which includes two adult lift tickets at Titus Mountain Family Ski Center. Additional...
package
Activities and Attractions, Ski
range
Valid Feb. 28
- Mar. 10
Valid Jan. 25
- Mar. 7
Prescott House ADK Winter Pride Promo
Prescott House ADK Winter Pride Promo
package
Special Events
range
Valid Jan. 16
- Mar. 31
Valid Jan. 16
- Mar. 31
Hotel Saranac Ski & Stay Package
Hotel Saranac
Hotel Saranac
Stay & Ski Package Stay at Hotel Saranac and Ski Titus Mountain Day or Night Package Your room reservation includes one adult lift ticket....
package
Activities and Attractions, Ski
range
Valid Jan. 16
- Mar. 31
Valid Jan. 16
- Mar. 31
Hotel Saranac Sled & Spoke Package
Hotel Saranac
Hotel Saranac
Snowmobile Package Hotel Saranac and Sara-Placid Sled & Spoke have partnered so you and a guest can explore dozens of miles of ADK snowmobile...
package
Activities and Attractions, Snowmobile
range
Valid Jan. 21
- Jan. 21
Valid Jan. 21
- Jan. 21
Stay and Dine
Voco Saranac Lake
Voco Saranac Lake
Receive a 50 dollar credit per stay to use in our Boathouse Saranac Lake Pub. Enjoy an exceptional dining experience with unparalleled views great...
package
Activities and Attractions, Dining Deals
