SUMMARY:

Join me for this 5.4 mile hike on Ampersand Mountain (3352').  It lies just west of the High Peaks in the Adirondacks and is a popular day hike.  It is named for the nearby Ampersand Creek, which resembles an ampersand.

We will utilize the Ampersand Mountain Trail (#9/#102).  This is an out-and-back hike, which leads to the bare open summit.  From here there are extensive views in all directions, particularly to the High Peaks in the east and down onto the Saranac Lakes to the west.  There is approximately 1800 feet in elevation gain.

Upon our return to the trailhead, there is an optional 1.2 mile hike to the shore of Middle Saranac Lake using the Saranac Lake Trail (#8).  Here we will have the opportunity to swim or just relax for a while.

Rain or harsh weather will postpone to another date or cancel, as appropriate.

What to Bring:  Typical early spring hiking gear should be appropriate:  shorts or convertible hiking pants, good sturdy hiking boots with thick socks, optional bathing suit and a windbreaker/raingear (just in case).  Also bring along lunch, snacks and plenty of water.  Optionally, pack bug repellent and sunscreen and anything else that you may require for a day hike. 

Afterwards:  We should be completed with the hike by 3PM.  If there is sufficient interest, we'll cap the day off with a light dinner/drinks in Tupper Lake or Saranac Lake (depending on the direction, by which participants will want to go home).

Driving directions to the location and spot to meet at:

Join me for this 5.4 mile hike on Ampersand Mountain (3352').  It lies just west of the High Peaks in the Adirondacks and is a popular day hike.  It is named for the nearby Ampersand Creek, which resembles an ampersand.

We will utilize the Ampersand Mountain Trail (#9/#102).  This is an out-and-back hike, which leads to the bare open summit.  From here there are extensive views in all directions, particularly to the High Peaks in the east and down onto the Saranac Lakes to the west.  There is approximately 1800 feet in elevation gain.

Upon our return to the trailhead, there is an optional 1.2 mile hike to the shore of Middle Saranac Lake using the Saranac Lake Trail (#8).  Here we will have the opportunity to swim or just relax for a while.

Rain or harsh weather will postpone to another date or cancel, as appropriate.

What to Bring:  Typical early spring hiking gear should be appropriate:  shorts or convertible hiking pants, good sturdy hiking boots with thick socks, optional bathing suit and a windbreaker/raingear (just in case).  Also bring along lunch, snacks and plenty of water.  Optionally, pack bug repellent and sunscreen and anything else that you may require for a day hike. 

Afterwards:  We should be completed with the hike by 3PM.  If there is sufficient interest, we'll cap the day off with a light dinner/drinks in Tupper Lake or Saranac Lake (depending on the direction, by which participants will want to go home).