The best walks and hikes around Whitehall
4.1
(8)
144
hikers
9
hikes
Hiking around Whitehall provides access to the forested mountains and lakeshore paths of the Lake George Wild Forest. The region is characterized by a network of trails with significant elevation changes, leading to various peaks and viewpoints. Routes wind through dense woodlands and offer a mix of moderate climbs and longer, more challenging hikes.
Best hiking trails around Whitehall
- The most popular hiking route is Sleeping Beauty Mountain — Lake George Wild Forest, a 7.3 mile (11.8 km) trail…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
8
hikers
7.96km
02:28
330m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
29
hikers
11.8km
03:32
370m
370m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
15
hikers
10.9km
03:22
370m
370m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
15.0km
04:44
550m
550m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
29.4km
09:11
1,090m
1,100m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
There is no official trail to the summit of Erebus, if you are peak bagging you will need to do some serious bushwhacking to get to the top, which is forested.
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The best views from Shelving Rock Mountain are past the summit. The hike to the top is fairly easy, but the views out across Lake George and the Tongue are phenomenal.
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The trailhead has ample parking. You follow a wide path covered in smooth stones up Black Mountain to the north. The section of trail south of the summit has a number of steep switchbacks before descending onto a lovely windy forest trail by the Black Mountain Ponds.
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The trail winds its way gracefully around the marshy ponds at the base of Black Mountain. The ground is soft and springy along the trail and clear of roots.
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Black Mountain is the tallest peak in Lake George Wild Forest. The views from the summit are stunning — from the summit the landscape rolls away gently to the north and gives the feeling of flying above the Adirondacks. The wind turbine at the top is a unique summit feature.
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The trail to Sleeping Beauty Mountain is well-marked and maintained. This trailhead may be closed some parts of the year, and Dancy Clearing Road is bumpy and requires a vehicle with good clearance to get to the trailhead. You can always park at the Hog Town Trailhead down the street.
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You get views toward the forested true peak of Sleeping Beauty Mountain from the north end of Bumps Pond. The pond makes an excellent stopping point along hikes to both Sleeping Beauty and Erebus Mountain.
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From the false summit you get an excellent view of Lake George and the mountains of the Wild Forest. The true summit is a half mile north but wooded.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the Whitehall area?
Yes, there are options suitable for beginners and families. For a shorter, less strenuous outing, consider the Hiking loop from Kingsbury. It's an easy 5.4 km walk that provides a good introduction to the local scenery without significant elevation gain.
What's a good challenging hike for experienced hikers?
For those seeking a more demanding adventure, the East Shore Loop — Lake George Wild Forest is an excellent choice. This difficult trail covers nearly 30 km with over 1,000 meters of elevation gain, offering a strenuous but rewarding day out in the forest.
Can I bring my dog on the trails around Whitehall?
Dogs are generally permitted on trails in the Lake George Wild Forest, but they must be under your control at all times, and it's best practice to keep them on a leash. Be sure to bring water for your pet and pack out any waste. Always check specific trailhead regulations upon arrival.
What kind of terrain should I expect when hiking near Whitehall?
The trails are primarily located within the Lake George Wild Forest. You should expect well-defined woodland paths that wind through dense forests. Many routes involve significant elevation changes with steady climbs to mountain summits and viewpoints. The terrain is often rugged with rocks and roots underfoot.
Are there any circular or loop hikes available?
Yes, the area features several excellent loop trails that bring you back to your starting point. The Erebus Mountain Loop — Lake George Wild Forest is a great example, offering a 15 km circuit through varied forest landscapes.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Whitehall?
The trails around Whitehall are well-regarded by the komoot community, which has given the area an average rating of over 4 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful forest scenery, the rewarding views from the peaks, and the well-maintained trail network.
Which hikes offer the best views?
Many trails in the Whitehall area lead to rewarding viewpoints. Hikes that ascend to peaks like Sleeping Beauty Mountain or Black Mountain are known for their panoramic vistas of Lake George and the surrounding wild forest. The climbs are well worth the effort for the views from the top.
What should I pack for a hike in the Whitehall area?
Sturdy hiking boots are essential due to the rocky and uneven terrain. You should also carry plenty of water, snacks, a map, and a compass or GPS device. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so packing layers, including a waterproof jacket, is highly recommended.
How many hiking trails are there around Whitehall?
There is a solid selection of documented trails in the area. The guide highlights nearly 10 distinct routes, ranging from easy walks to difficult mountain treks, providing options for various fitness and experience levels.
Are there any trails with waterfalls near Whitehall?
While the primary features of the hikes around Whitehall are the mountain summits and dense forests, some trails follow streams and may feature small cascades, especially after rainfall. However, there are no major, named waterfalls that are the main destination of the popular trails in this immediate area.
How do I get to the trailheads? Is public transport an option?
Accessing the trailheads in the Lake George Wild Forest is most practical by car. Parking is available at or near the start of most major trails, though lots can fill up on weekends. Public transportation options are limited in this rural area, so planning to drive is your most reliable option.
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