Tabletop and Colden Mountains

The terrain is varied and challenging. Mount Colden features rugged, steep ascents with numerous rock scrambles, and sections with wooden ladders and stairs, especially near Avalanche Pass. Rocks can be very slick when wet. Tabletop Mountain, often accessed via a herd path, can be muddy and boulder-filled, though a re-routed trail aims for a gentler approach. Expect mixed rock and dirt surfaces throughout.

From the alpine tundra summit of Mount Colden, you'll find breathtaking panoramic views of surrounding mountains like Algonquin and Marcy, and several lakes. The route via Avalanche Pass is also very scenic, offering views of Lake Arnold and the prominent Trap Dike. While Tabletop Mountain's summit is treed, an outlook just past it provides considerable views of the Great Range. Other notable points include Marcy Dam and the View of High Peaks Wilderness.

The trail typically starts from the Van Hoevenberg Trailhead, often referred to as the Adirondack Loj trailhead. Parking is available there, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early is highly recommended.

While there isn't a specific permit required for hiking the Tabletop and Colden Mountains themselves, you are hiking within the Adirondack High Peaks Wilderness. There may be parking fees at trailheads like the Adirondack Loj. Always check current regulations before your trip.

No, this combined hike is classified as difficult and is not suitable for beginners or young families. Mount Colden is a strenuous and serious hike, demanding good physical fitness. Tabletop Mountain is considered an easier High Peak, but combining both makes for a very long and challenging day, often pushing the limits for experienced hikers.

Dogs are generally allowed on trails in the Adirondack High Peaks Wilderness, including this route. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times. Be aware that the terrain is rugged with rock scrambles and ladders, which can be challenging for some dogs.

The best time to hike is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). Summer offers warmer temperatures, but can be buggy. Fall provides stunning foliage, but temperatures drop, and conditions can become wet and slippery. Winter hiking is possible but requires specialized gear, experience, and preparedness for extreme cold and deep snow.

As this trail is in the High Peaks Wilderness, specific regulations apply. This includes a requirement for bear-resistant canisters for food and scented items between April 1 and November 30. Group sizes are also limited. Always practice Leave No Trace principles. Check the latest DEC regulations before your visit.

Yes, the route utilizes and intersects several established trails. You will spend significant portions on the Van Hoevenberg Trail and the Lake Arnold Trail. Other sections may include the Avalanche Pass Trail, the Indian Falls- Lake Arnold Crossover Trail, and the Marcy Dam Truck Trail.

Hiking both Tabletop and Colden Mountains in a single outing is a very strenuous endeavor. While Mount Colden alone can take 10-12 hours, combining both peaks will extend this significantly. Expect a very long day, likely exceeding 12 hours, depending on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Mount Colden is known for its rugged, steep, and technical terrain with significant rock scrambles and ladders, offering expansive alpine views from its summit. It's considered a more challenging and serious hike. Tabletop Mountain, while still a High Peak, is generally considered an easier ascent, often via a muddy herd path, with more limited views from its treed summit, though an outlook nearby offers good vistas. Colden is often seen as an advanced hike, while Tabletop can be a good introductory High Peak.