Scarface Mountain

*The NYSDEC has announced that the Scarface Trail is closed due to unsafe public use of the bridge. The bridge and the Scarface Mountain Trail will remain closed out of an abundance of caution until the structure is replaced, which is expected some time this year (2024). Planning is underway to replace the bridge. Users should not attempt to use the bridge or cross the brook on foot.

Scarface is a mountain often seen while driving between Saranac Lake and Lake Placid. While no views at the top, side trails lead to an open ledgewith views overlooking Oseetah Lake and the Saranac Lakes chain. This mountain is part of the Saranac Lake 6er.

Key takeaways

• Distance: 7.6 miles round trip
• Elevation: 3,088 feet
• Elevation gain: 1,500 feet

Hiking Scarface Mountain

The hike is 3.8 miles one-way over varied terrain, which at times is quite steep. From the trailhead you will climb a bit and work your way through an open forest to the Adirondack Rail Trail. Cross the gravel Rail Trail and continue on a mellow hike all the way to the bridge over Ray Brook.

Past the bridge the trail stays very mellow through a forest of tall pines. There is one very distinctive trail split, so be sure to take a left at this point; the split is well marked. The trail begins to climb a bit and very soon begins to get steeper. As the terrain gets steeper the footing gets a bit less favorable. Along these steep slopes as you gain more elevation there are some areas that require a bit of scrambling. As the trail starts to get less aggressive there are a few views off over the trees of the distant High Peaks. The trail moderates before reaching the unofficial summit.

The trail at one point stops at the first landing with open views (unofficial summit), but this is not the true summit though it's technically the final spot to get a view. Many hikers stop here, short of the wooded summit that does not offer any views. A narrow path continues over the summit and into a much darker forest. The trail meanders through and eventually ends at the true summit where there is a trail disk on a tree marking the top at 3,088 feet.

Scarface in the winter

Snowshoes are necessary to avoid post-holing through the snowpack, and microspikes are required to ascend the mountain's steeper sections. Extra layers of non-cotton clothing, a windbreaker, emergency blanket, first-aid kit, headlamp with extra batteries, and plenty of food and water are essential items for any winter excursion. Being prepared is necessary for any winter hike.

How to get there

From the intersection of Route 3 and Route 86 in Saranac Lake, follow Route 86 toward Lake Placid. Continue into Ray Brook and take a right onto Ray Brook Road (by the Maplefield's gas station) and follow for 0.1 miles to the trailhead on the left.