Lake George Hiking Trails for Every Skill Level

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Lake George is to hit the trails. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing nature walk, a family-friendly adventure, or a challenging summit with panoramic views, Lake George has a hike for every skill level. Here are some of our favorite local trails, organized by difficulty, so you can head out with confidence—no matter your experience.

Easy Trails: Perfect for Families, Beginners & Casual Explorers

Bradley's Look Out Summit View
Bradley's Look Out Summit View
Up Yonda Farm Loop Summit View
Up Yonda Farm Loop Summit View
Meadowbrook Preserve
Meadowbrook Preserve
Meadowbrook Preserve Trail
Meadowbrook Preserve Trail

Blue Trail to Bradley’s Lookout
Distance: 1.1 miles out & back
Elevation Gain: ~180 feet
Terrain: Gentle incline through forest
Tucked into the quiet hills of Bolton Landing, this short trail offers a serene walk through hardwood forest leading to Bradley’s Lookout—a small clearing with filtered views of Lake George and the surrounding hills. It’s peaceful, lightly trafficked, and great for nature lovers. 

Up Yonda Farm Nature Trails Loop
Distance: Varies, up to 1.4 miles
Elevation Gain: ~290 feet
Terrain: Well-marked, gently rolling, wooded paths
Ideal for kids and curious explorers, this family-friendly nature center in Bolton Landing features scenic loop trails, a butterfly garden, and educational displays. The trails are gentle and offer lovely views of Lake George from the overlook near the top.

Meadowbrook Preserve
Distance: 1.3 miles, loop
Elevation Gain: Minimal, ~6 feet
Terrain: Flat and accessible
Located in Queensbury, this preserve includes a boardwalk over wetlands and wide paths through woodlands and meadows. It’s stroller-friendly—perfect for a calm walk or birdwatching excursion.6

Moderate Trails: A Bit of a Challenge with Big Rewards

Pinnacle Summit View
Pinnacle Summit View
The Pinnacle Trail
The Pinnacle Trail
The Pinnacle Trail
The Pinnacle Trail
Shelving Rock Summit View
Shelving Rock Summit View
Sleeping Beauty Summit View
Sleeping Beauty Summit View
Sleeping Beauty Summit
Sleeping Beauty Summit
Sleeping Beauty Trail
Sleeping Beauty Trail
Lake along Sleeping Beauty Trail
Lake along Sleeping Beauty Trail

The Pinnacle
Distance: 2.1 miles, out & back
Elevation Gain: ~490 feet
Terrain: Moderate incline with a well-worn trail through forest, some rocky areas
This quick, rewarding hike in Bolton Landing leads to a stunning panoramic view of Lake George. It’s popular with locals and perfect if you’re short on time but still want to soak in the scenery. This is one of our favorites for a sunrise or sunset hike!

Shelving Rock Falls & Mountain
Distance: 1.7 miles to the falls, 3.3 miles round trip to the summit
Elevation Gain: ~790 feet
Terrain: Gradual incline, mostly wooded trail with rocky sections near the top
Start with a visit to the picturesque Shelving Rock Falls, then continue to the mountain summit for beautiful lake views. Pack a picnic and enjoy the overlook. This is a great hike with flexible options for groups with mixed experience levels.

Sleeping Beauty Mountain
Distance: 7.0 miles, loop
Elevation Gain: ~1,340 feet
Terrain: Varied terrain with forest roads, rocky sections, and open ledges
A classic Adirondack hike with forest trails, open rock summits, and breathtaking views. You’ll pass ponds and wildflowers on your way up—ideal for intermediate hikers and adventurous families. For a shorter option, you can hike an out-and-back route instead of the full loop.

Challenging Trails: For Experienced Hikers & Adventurers

Cat Mountain Summit View
Cat Mountain Summit View
Cat Mountain Trail
Cat Mountain Trail
Cat Mountain Trail
Cat Mountain Trail
Sunrise at Prospect Mountain Summit
Sunrise at Prospect Mountain Summit
Sunrise at Prospect Mountain
Sunrise at Prospect Mountain
Prospect Mountain Trail
Prospect Mountain Trail
Prospect Mountain Trail
Prospect Mountain Trail
Buck Mountain Summit View
Buck Mountain Summit View
Buck Mountain Trail
Buck Mountain Trail
Buck Mountain Summit Marker
Buck Mountain Summit Marker

Cat Mountain
Distance: 3.4 miles out & back, via Red Trail
Elevation Gain: ~1,000 feet
Terrain: Mixed terrain with forest trail, exposed rock, and a few steep sections
This trail features a mix of wooded paths and open rock, with panoramic views from the summit. It’s a bit of a workout, but totally worth it—especially in the fall when the foliage is bursting with color. There are multiple access points including from the Thomas Mountain trail network or via the Edgecomb Pond trailhead depending on the length you are looking for.

Prospect Mountain
Distance: 2.9 miles, out & back
Elevation Gain: ~1,500 feet
Terrain: Steep and steady climb on a wide, gravel former cable railway
This iconic Lake George hike begins near the village and follows a former carriage road to the summit. The steep, steady climb rewards hikers with one of the best views in the region. From the top, you can spot the lake stretching for miles, the surrounding mountains, and even glimpses of Vermont on a clear day.

Buck Mountain
Distance: 6.4 miles, out & back
Elevation Gain: ~2,000 feet
Terrain: Steep, rocky trail with root-covered switchbacks and open summit
A moderately steep and rugged trail with a rewarding summit offering sweeping views of Lake George and the southern Adirondacks. Start early to enjoy sunrise views and beat the crowds.

Tips for a Safe & Enjoyable Hike:
• Always check weather conditions and trail advisories.
• Bring water, snacks, sun protection, and a trail map or GPS.
• Wear sturdy footwear and dress in layers.
• Practice “Leave No Trace” principles and stay on marked trails.

Stone Gate Resort: Your Adventure Basecamp
After a day of exploration, come back to Stone Gate Resort and unwind by the lake or relax by the pool. With easy access to Lake George’s best hiking trails and a peaceful lakeside setting, it’s the perfect place to stay, play, and explore!

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